As I reflect on my 20-year professional journey today, a whirlwind of memories, dreams, and aspirations fill my heart. It feels like just yesterday when I embarked on this path with youthful optimism and lofty goals. Now, standing as an experienced professional, I am humbled by the lessons, exposures, and personal growth that have made me what I am today.

The Beginning - The Mentorship That Shaped Me

My voyage began on July 1, 2003, when I joined Ambuja Cement Eastern Limited as a Management Trainee. Fresh out of campus placement after completing my MBA, I had no idea that this initial step would set in motion a significant journey of self-discovery, continuous learning, and transformative personal development.

Looking back, I am immensely grateful to my first mentor, Mr. Vineet Verma. He was an exceptional leader who not only imparted invaluable skills but also ignited a flame of passion within me. He nurtured my spirit, instilling in me core values like self-discipline, meticulous planning, and fostering meaningful connections. Under his wise guidance, I imbibed the importance of effective communication, the power of public relations, and the significance of respecting timelines and procedures. Mr. Verma's mentorship laid a strong foundation for my future endeavours.

Unveiling New Horizons: Discovering the Art of Concept Selling and Media Marketing

Each organization I had the privilege of working with offered unique knowledge and growth opportunities. During my next stint at ABP Pvt Ltd, I delved into concept selling and media marketing. Working closely with Ms.

Devasree Chaddha, I gained an appreciation for unwavering focus, solution-driven brand and marketing approaches, and navigating the intricate media landscape. This phase honed my skills in media operations and nurtured my abilities as a brand marketer, empowering me to provide tailored solutions aligned with brands' needs and challenges. It was a transformative period where passion intertwined with expertise, giving birth to a new dimension of my professional identity.

Navigating the Intricacies of Market Mapping and High-Net-Worth Clientele

My subsequent role at The Oberoi Group of Hotels expanded my perception, exposing me to market mapping, sales blitz, persuasion, communication, and the delicate art of catering to high-net-worth clientele. Under the guidance of my mentor, Mr. Amitabh Sinha, I imbibed the significance of market analysis, identifying opportune moments, and captivating customers through deep insights into their preferences. This experience instilled in me a sense of disciplined process-oriented thinking, ensuring that I approach every task meticulously and strategically with a collaborative mindset.

The Power of Strategy: Cultivating Successful Brands at Brand Capital of Times Group

A significant part of my professional journey unfolded at Brand Capital, which is a division of the Times Group. There, I immersed myself in the world of brand and business strategy, helping brands grow and scaling up. Under the leadership of Mr. Malcolm Raphael, I learned how to create marketing solutions that are based on insights and focused on the brand, leading to successful business outcomes. He taught me the importance of consistent and unique branding, strategic positioning, and effective communication.

I also had the opportunity to learn from Mr. Sivakumar Sundaram, who showed me how to differentiate brands, establish dominance, and create disruption. He emphasized the long-term value that these principles can bring to shareholders. Mr. Rajesh Singhal taught me about financial prudence and how to cultivate successful brands within a strong financial framework. This phase highlighted the significance of consistent effort and effective planning for brands and businesses.

My time at Brand Capital provided me with valuable insights that have fuelled my commitment to driving growth, instigating change, and making a lasting impact in the field of branding and beyond.

Crafting Compelling Narratives: Mastering Content Strategy and Seamless Execution

In my current role as the Head of Group Branding at Ambuja Neotia, I have embarked on a captivating journey, mastering the art of content strategy, brand planning, and flawless execution. Guided by the visionary leadership of our esteemed Chairman, Mr. Harshavardhan Neotia, I have learned the paramount importance of creating unique experiences and placing the customer at the heart of every strategic decision. Throughout my tenure here, I have been engineered to cultivate the subtle art of storytelling, weaving narratives that captivate and inspire with an ingrained purpose behind it. These invaluable skills have been nurtured through numerous interactions, leaving an indelible imprint on my professional path. I owe immense gratitude to Mr. Vijay Dwivedi, who has instilled within me a keen eye for detail and the power of effective copywriting. Under the able guidance of Mr. Pramod Dwivedi, I have gained exposure to aligning brand strategies with business objectives. By executing targeted marketing campaigns and integrating new-age technologies to enrich the consumer journey at every touchpoint, we have achieved tangible results and fortified our brand's impact. The experience at Ambuja Neotia has transformed me, blending effective and efficient marketing strategies that resonate with our audience.

Thriving Amidst Turbulence: Lessons Learned from Global Economic Upheavals

Throughout these 20 years, I have witnessed and navigated numerous global economic upheavals and challenging national events. From the 2008 Goldman Sachs meltdown to the trials of demonetisation, GST implementation, and the recent pandemic, these adversities have tested my adaptability and resilience. They have taught me the importance of embracing change, fostering mindfulness, and cultivating self-awareness. In the face of uncertainty, I have found the strength to rise above, blend with the rhythm of transformation, and tread with resilience. I must thank Mr. Surojit Gupta who during some of my very difficult times has stood beside me like an elder brother motivating me and imparting invaluable support, guidance, and lessons.

Flexibility in the Face of Uncertainty: Nurturing Adaptability for Long-Term Success

Amidst these trials, I have learned an invaluable lesson in flexibility. The economic landscape is ever-changing, demanding readiness for financial fluctuations. A stable salary or a guaranteed professional journey is not always assured, highlighting the need to cultivate a mindset rooted in economic and professional adaptability. Embracing this mindset has made me acutely aware of my financial decisions and developed a strong sense of prioritization. It empowers me to weather economic storms and stay focused on long-term financial and professional security. These experiences have shaped me into a resilient and agile professional, adept at adapting to dynamic economic circumstances. They have taught me to cope with uncertainty, find grace within chaos, and transform challenges into opportunities.

A Symphony of Emotions: Embarking on a New Decade of Professional Journey

As I embark on the new decade of my professional journey, I feel a symphony of emotions, like an orchestra tuning up before a grand performance. Excitement, anticipation, and a touch of vulnerability harmonise within my heart. The experiences, lessons, and growth accrued over the past 20 years have laid a robust foundation upon which I shall continue to build my future journey. Relentless learning and personal development are indispensable for staying relevant and thriving in today's rapidly evolving world.

The Pursuit of Growth: Relentless Learning and Personal Development in a Rapidly Evolving World

I remain committed to acquiring new knowledge, refining existing skills, and embracing emerging technologies. Nurturing an unwavering sense of curiosity, fostering innovation, and actively seeking opportunities for growth are my aspirations. I aim to effect positive change within the business landscape while contributing to the development of others. By sharing my experiences, mentoring aspiring professionals, and fostering a culture of collaboration and growth, together we shall compose stories of success where every individual's contribution can result in a memorable story.

A Journey of Gratitude and Reflection: Cherishing 20 Years of Professional Journey

I must also express my deepest gratitude to the team with whom I currently work. Most of them Joined during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period of unprecedented challenges. We have weathered the storms, overcome obstacles, and created multiple success stories as a team. My colleagues Debalok Roy, Anusree Gupta, Sibendu Das, Abhishek Paul, Vivek Sharma, Shiladitya Roy, Abhijit Biswas, Namrata Biswas, and Bishmoy Debnath– each one of them has played a vital part in this journey. Their dedication, expertise, and unwavering support have been instrumental in shaping this collective journey.

To all the experiences, lessons, mentors, and colleagues who have been an integral part of my 20-year journey, I express my deepest gratitude. Your contributions have shaped me into the professional I am today, and I shall forever cherish the memories and lessons imbibed. As I venture into the future, I carry within me a profound mix of humility, resilience, and determination, instilled in me through this extraordinary expedition.

Here's to 20 years of significant progress, heartfelt gratitude, and reflection—and to the exciting chapters that await in the journey ahead!