Aakash Kulkarni
Nationality: Indian
Age: 34
Job title: programme manager at Philips
Previous studies: bachelor in production engineering from COEP Technological University in Pune, India
1. Why did you choose to go back to school for an MBA? And why RSM?
“While studying engineering 14 years ago, I knew that management studies were next but I wanted some work experience first. This way, an MBA would be more effective. Part of my engineering studies had management studies which I am passionate about. So I’m here to tap into my potential. RSM was my absolute first choice because of its excellent reputation, rankings, professors and alumni. It’s a perfect setting to make my dream to do an MBA come true.”
2. How are the Executive MBA and the RSM culture preparing you for business in a world in motion?
“RSM gives you a rounded and diverse exposure in diverse topics. We talk about the 17 SDGs in marketing, strategy, finance and all other business aspects. You see today’s corporate world reflected in the EMBA. My classmates are diverse in gender, age, nationalities, and educational and work backgrounds. The culture here is extremely transparent, supportive, and collaborative. If someone is tackling a tough situation, we discuss what we would do. This thinking into solutions with a multi-perspective view leads to eye-opening discussions. It’s an excellent combination of peer-to-peer learning, knowledge from the professors and interesting case studies.”
3. What has been the most challenging assignment or course so far?
“The first week was challenging, because everything was new with lots of preparation. Eventually I felt more confident. Finance is interesting because I don’t have this background. We had to evaluate a company which was very challenging. Also, for an assignment in marketing we had to decode things, simulating a real-life environment, and then come up with a marketing plan.”
4. How have you applied new knowledge and skills from both inside and outside of the classroom in your current role?
“My learning from RSM has been exponential. I can apply what I learned on a weekend directly on Monday, from creating business cases to understanding how different business aspects work. My finance colleagues in the company are happy there’s finally someone in the business who understands financial language. This makes things easier, quicker and more effective.”
5. What impact does the Personal Leadership Development (PLD) component of the programme have on you?
“This journey is surprising, and its impact is profound. I knew how I function, but I now understand where most of my traits come from. I didn’t know I was missing this, but it makes me feel grounded and gives me clarity. Leadership isn’t just about leading others, but also about understanding ourselves. People, including me at first, didn’t realise how powerful this journey is.”
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6. What is the highlight of the curriculum for you?
“A former senior executive from Unilever gave a masterclass about sustainability which gave me goose bumps. It was incredible to see how they enact their vision, regardless of the challenges and failures. It sets a trend for sustainable supply chains and processes. Also, for a finance course, I had to valuate a public-listed company which I never thought I would do. And I’m meeting amazing people: professors, students and alumni. The case studies we investigate are fascinating.”
7. How are you contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals through business – now and in the future?
“My work focuses on service business in healthcare. Although challenging, we aim for more repairs instead of replacements when possible, so there’s less production which costs less energy, less money, and is better for our customers and the environment altogether. We also plan to look into innovative solutions to reuse components via circular sustainable supply chains. Sustainable business practices have a high focus.”
8. How have you utilised the alumni network so far?
“Before the Executive MBA, I spoke with several alumni who work at Philips. I was already convinced I wanted to do the EMBA and their experiences excited me even more. I also joined RSM open days. What stood out for me was clarity of thought from the alumni and I wanted this clarity too.”
9. How is an MBA from RSM setting you apart from your colleagues and peers?
“It’s been a game changer. In my role, I’ve been able to create an impact at a much faster pace. I bring the diverse nature of the case studies and topics back to my team. These new perspectives bring out their curiosity, so my team keeps learning and is more receptive to new ideas. I also have new perspectives of how to read between the lines in business situations, and outside of work too. The EMBA affects us in a positive way for life.”
10. What does the future hold for you?
“I know my MBA will take me in the right direction to drive impact and be effective for my team and my organisation. I’m pretty sure I’ll continue to be on a learning journey. I want to create positive change for my customers, business and make a sustainable impact to cater to societal needs. I’m proud to work in the healthcare industry, and intend to keep making this positive impact.”