An Interview with Bheesham Atri (Alumnus at IIM Lucknow, IPMX Programme)

Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow started in the year 1984. IIM Lucknow offers programmes at the postgraduate, and doctoral levels. To get admission to IIM Lucknow courses, candidates need to fulfil the prescribed eligibility criteria set by the institute.

In an exclusive interaction with Careers360, Bheesham Attri (IPMX one-year programme) an alumnus at IIM Lucknow tells about his learning experiences, international exchange programme, involvement as an alumni, and more. Read the full article and learn about his experiences studying at IIM Lucknow.

Careers 360: What made you choose the one-year IPMX programme at IIM Lucknow?

Bheesham Attri: IPMX stood as an optimal choice given its perfect blend of academics, case-based pedagogy and international exposure. It perfectly aligned with my career goals, offering an accelerated one-year format. This blend of learning was both essential and exciting for someone at my career stage. Additionally, the diversity within the cohort, a globally relevant curriculum, and the promising career opportunities post the IPMX programme made it a compelling choice.

Careers 360: How did the IPMX programme help with your career advancement?

Bheesham Attri: IPMX significantly propelled my career by providing the knowledge and tools necessary for moving into strategic and management roles. The curriculum, combined with real-life case studies, helped me make the shift from technical roles to corporate strategy, and eventually into an engagement manager position. It allowed me to lead organizational-level strategies and gave me the confidence to operate in such roles.

Careers 360: Please elaborate on any specific learning experience from the IPMX course which you found most valuable in your professional life.

Bheesham Attri: One of the most valuable learning experiences was decision-making under uncertainty, where we were presented with complex, real-world business problems. This case-based pedagogy honed my analytical and problem-solving skills, which have been immensely useful in my professional life.

Careers 360: How was your experience with the Alumni while you were a student at IIM Lucknow?

Bheesham Attri: My experience with the IIM Lucknow alumni network was highly positive. The alumni were supportive, offered mentorship and real-world industry insights. They played a pivotal role in my career planning, providing guidance and were crucial as I transitioned into new roles post-IPMX.

Careers 360: How enriching was the international exchange programme for you?

Bheesham Attri: The international exchange programme was a game-changer. It provided exposure to different business cultures. Interacting with international peers and studying at a renowned global institution gave me a broader perspective on handling cross-border projects and international stakeholders management.

Careers 360: How did the IPMX programme prepare you for seeking the top positions in industry-leading roles?

Bheesham Attri: The rigorous curriculum, combined with peer learning, helped build my confidence and readiness to take on leadership roles. I also honed my skills in team management, communication, and problem-solving, which are critical for top-tier industry roles

Careers 360: As an alumnus of IIM Lucknow, what makes the IPMX programme unique?

Bheesham Attri: The uniqueness of the IPMX programme lies in its structured approach targeting overall development. Its emphasis on leadership, operations, finance, strategy, communication, decision science and international exposure, coupled with top-tier faculty, sets it apart from other executive programmes.

Careers 360: Are you actively involved with the alumni support being offered to the current students? Please share some insights.

Bheesham Attri: I try to engage actively in the alumni network to offer insights and experiential learnings to current students. This includes participating in alumni sessions organised from time to time, connecting with them off-stage, and sharing my experiences to help them navigate their career transitions.

Careers 360: How often do you meet with your fellow alumni members? Is the network supportive?

Bheesham Attri: We regularly stay in touch with fellow alumni there are several meetups and forums which allow the exchange of thoughts and experiences. Such interactions are good for learning and collaboration across industries.

Careers 360: Please share some tips on how one can expand their professional network.

Bheesham Attri: Learning is directly proportional to earnings. Connect to alumni for experiential learning rather than just reaching out for career opportunities. Connections you make at this stage last a lifetime.

Careers 360: How can one plan to climb the corporate ladder? What areas should be considered by the students?

Bheesham Attri: If you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will spend its whole life thinking it's stupid. A quote by Albert Einstein explains it all. The leadership roles are seldom cross-functional and are dynamic. One should be Agile, Dynamic, continuous learner and ever-evolving. Development has to be holistic to climb up the corporate ladder. Academic excellence when meets an adapting personality as per situations puts you in the right spot for promotions and career growth.

Careers 360: Any advice to those who wish to pursue the IPMX programme?

Bheesham Attri: It is essential to have clarity on your career goals and how the programme aligns with them. Be prepared for an intensive learning experience that will require balancing multiple priorities. Engage fully with the peer group, faculty, and alumni, as these connections will be invaluable both during and after the programme.

Disclaimer: The content is published as a marketing initiative between Careers360, and IIM Lucknow.