An Interview with Dr. S. Jaya Krishna, Area Chair (OSCM), BIM Trichy

BIM Trichy also known as Bharathidasan Institute of Management Tiruchirappalli was established in 1984 as a private institution. BIM Trichy is NBA accredited (2024-2027), NIRF Top 100, and AICTE approved institute. BIM Trichy courses include MBA and PhD Management which are offered in full-time mode. For BIM Trichy admissions, candidates having a valid score in XAT/ MAT/ CAT/ GMAT will be considered.

Careers360 presents you with an interview with Dr. S. Jaya Krishna, Area Chair (OSCM), Chairman – Admissions, Controller of Examinations (CoE), BIM Trichy where he highlights the MBA curriculum, challenges faced, teaching pedagogy at BIM Trichy. Go through the interview below to learn more about BIM Trichy.

Careers360: As a department head, can you explain to the students what are the various responsibilities that come with such a high position?

Dr. S. Jaya Krishna: As the Area Chair for the Operations and Supply Chain Management (OSCM) area in the MBA program at Bharathidasan Institute of Management (BIM) I play a pivotal role in shaping the academic and operational excellence of the area. In my role as Area Chair, I ensure the holistic development of the OSCM domain while fostering an ecosystem that bridges academia and industry effectively. My key responsibilities include: (a) designing and periodically updating the curriculum to align with industry trends, academic standards, and the institution’s goals; (b) ensuring the effective delivery of courses within the OSCM domain, emphasizing practical and theoretical knowledge; (c) act as a mentor for student research, internships, and career opportunities in operations and supply chain management; (d) establishing and nurturing connections with industry professionals to bring real-world insights into the classroom; (e) facilitating guest lectures, industry projects, and collaborations that enhance learning outcomes; and (f) represent the OSCM area in academic councils, administrative meetings, and accreditation processes, while ensuring compliance with institutional and accreditation standards.

Careers360: Please tell us about your journey as the department head. What are some of the highs and lows that you faced?

Dr. S. Jaya Krishna: Serving as the Area Chair for the Operations and Supply Chain Management (OSCM) area in the MBA program at Bharathidasan Institute of Management (BIM) has been a fulfilling and transformative journey. It has been a mix of challenges, learnings, and moments of pride, each shaping my professional and personal growth.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this role has been the opportunity to innovate and modernize the curriculum. Introducing contemporary topics such as Industry 4.0, digital supply chains, advanced analytics, and sustainable operations was met with enthusiasm from both students and faculty. Collaborating with industry professionals to bring real-world insights into classrooms and enabling students to work on live/action projects brought a sense of achievement.

Like any leadership role, this journey was not without its challenges. Managing competing expectations from industry, students, faculty, and administration required careful balancing. Aligning academic offerings with rapid technological advancements in operations and supply chain management was demanding but necessary. One of the toughest phases was navigating the disruptions caused by the pandemic, where transitioning to online learning while maintaining academic rigor tested our adaptability and resilience. Additionally, establishing strong industry partnerships required persistent efforts, given the competitive landscape of management education.

Also See: BIM Trichy Placements

Careers360: As the department head, the overseeing of the faculty, curriculum, and teaching methodology comes to you. What are the key points you would like to emphasise here?

Dr. S. Jaya Krishna: Ensuring curriculum innovation, impactful pedagogy, student success and mentorship, building academia-industry linkages, and strengthening the faculty ecosystem are the key aspects I wish to emphasize in my role as Area Chair. I kept the curriculum relevant amidst the fast-evolving technological landscape and trends of OSCM. I focused more on alignment with industry trends to equip students with relevant skills and knowledge. I have established strong connections with renowned industry professionals leading to several expert practice faculty, live projects, and internship opportunities. I have also facilitated experiential learning by integrating practical insights into academic delivery through experiential learning, simulations, live case analysis, etc. I introduced action projects with industry and witnessed students’ success in placements, academic pursuits, and professional growth. These showcase my leadership impact and reflect my commitment to both academic and professional excellence.

Careers360: How do you evaluate the teaching and learning outcomes in your department?

Dr. S. Jaya Krishna: Evaluating teaching and learning outcomes in the Operations and Supply Chain Management (OSCM) area requires a multi-faceted approach to ensure academic excellence and continuous improvement. We analyse student performance in exams, case studies, simulations, live projects, and assignments to gauge understanding and application of concepts. We also evaluate the quality of class discussions, problem-solving, and engagement during sessions. We also collect and analyse structured feedback from students about the course content, teaching methodologies, and faculty effectiveness. The learning outcomes are also assessed by evaluating the impact of live projects, internships, and industry interactions on students’ ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. I also ensure the department meets the standards set by accrediting bodies like AICTE or AACSB, where applicable.

Careers360: It is important that the curriculum that is taught is not just up to date but also incorporates necessary skill sets. How do you ensure this?

Dr. S. Jaya Krishna: Ensuring that the curriculum is both up-to-date and skill-oriented requires a dynamic, forward-looking approach. We administer an annual academic review process (AARP) to include new concepts such as digitisation, automation, sustainability, resiliency, Industry 4.0, digital supply chains, and AI/ML applications in operations. After analysing the emerging trends in the area, this comprehensive process involves three major exercises: (i) Key Stakeholder Inputs Analysis, (ii) Job Roles and Competencies Analysis, and (iii) Benchmarking Study. Feedback about the current curriculum from various key stakeholders viz., students, faculty, and domain experts are received and analysed. Job roles offered by recruiters, the prospective students’ aspirations, and emerging job trends according to the World Economic Forum (WEF) Report are identified; and required skills and competencies for the current, aspirational, emerging, and futuristic job roles are mapped to the existing courses to identify gaps in the curriculum and to cater to the needs of industry and society. Further, the curriculum of selected leading global business schools and top management institutes in India, are studied to identify best academic practices and curriculum advances for consideration and adoption. Cutting-edge topics like green supply chains, blockchain in logistics, AI-driven forecasting, and circular economy principles are ensured in the curriculum. This ensures the curriculum remains aligned with future trends.

We also work closely with an advisory board comprising industry leaders and academic experts in operations and supply chain management. The curriculum is incorporated with business simulation tools (for example, value chain simulation) to provide experiential learning opportunities for practical problem-solving. We also offer workshops and certifications on hands-on skills like inventory management, logistics optimization, and supply chain analytics. Besides, we integrate globally recognized certifications (e.g., Six Sigma, Lean, SAP) and industry frameworks into the curriculum. The co-teaching model in which industry experts and faculty jointly deliver courses or modules is widely practiced in our area. We also encourage self-paced learning through access to MOOCs, webinars, and online resources that supplement classroom learning with industry-specific knowledge.

Careers360: What do classes at BIM Trichy entail? Is the learning environment competitive or collaborative?

Dr. S. Jaya Krishna: Sessions at Bharathidasan Institute of Management (BIM), Trichy, offer a dynamic blend of academic rigor and practical learning, creating an enriching environment for aspiring management professionals. A significant focus is on case studies to encourage critical thinking, decision-making, and real-world problem-solving skills. Cases often highlight contemporary business challenges, particularly in Indian and global contexts. Faculty employ experiential learning techniques, such as role plays, simulations, and group activities, to make theoretical concepts more relatable. Emphasis is placed on developing analytical, communication, and leadership skills through presentations, group discussions, and individual assignments. Students often work on analytical tools like Excel, R, Tableau, and industry-relevant software to build technical competencies.

The learning environment at BIM is best described as a balance between competition and collaboration. Group projects and team assignments foster a collaborative spirit, enabling students to learn from each other’s strengths. Peer learning is encouraged, with students helping each other in areas like case study preparation, project work, and academic challenges. The tight-knit community at BIM supports open discussions, knowledge sharing, and mutual growth. The rigor of the curriculum and the high expectations of faculty create a competitive environment that drives students to perform their best. Intra- and inter-collegiate competitions at national and international levels such as case contests, simulation challenges and business plan challenges provide platforms to showcase talent and gain recognition. The diverse mix of students, with varying academic and professional backgrounds, ensures a stimulating environment where everyone pushes each other toward excellence.

Classes at BIM emphasize building well-rounded managers who can excel in both individual and team settings. The environment is designed to encourage intellectual curiosity, problem-solving, and leadership while fostering camaraderie and teamwork. Students are not just prepared for the job market but are also equipped to handle real-world challenges through a blend of collaboration and constructive competition.

Also See: BIM Trichy Facilities

Careers360: BIM Trichy’s MBA curriculum and pedagogy are designed to create a distinctive learning experience. Please share your thoughts on this.

Dr. S. Jaya Krishna: BIM Trichy’s curriculum and pedagogy stand out because they strike a fine balance between traditional management education and contemporary business demands. By blending academic rigor, practical exposure, and technological integration with a collaborative learning culture, BIM nurtures future-ready managers who are not only capable of solving complex problems but are also equipped to lead and innovate in an ever-changing world.

The curriculum is continually updated to align with the evolving needs of the corporate world, incorporating emerging topics such as sustainability, digital transformation, AI, and Industry 4.0. The focus is on providing a balanced foundation in core management principles while offering electives that cater to specialized interests such as Finance, Marketing, Operations, HR, and Digital Business Analytics. Experiential learning is embedded through live projects, internships, simulations, and hands-on workshops where students tackle problems faced by businesses in real time. The capstone project allows students to apply their knowledge holistically, bridging the gap between theory and practice. BIM leverages modern tools and technologies in its pedagogy, ensuring students are well-versed in analytics platforms like Excel, Python, R, Tableau, Power BI, and ERP systems like SAP. The curriculum promotes cross-disciplinary learning, integrating functional areas like Marketing, Operations, Strategy, and HR to develop a holistic understanding of management. Group projects, team-based assignments, and interactive discussions foster collaboration and peer learning, mirroring real-world corporate settings. Elective flexibility allows students to tailor their MBA journey according to their career aspirations and interests.

Careers360: For accreditation, every department has a role to play. Can you elaborate on this?

Dr. S. Jaya Krishna: Accreditation bodies evaluate the relevance, rigor, and outcomes of academic programs, so departments must provide evidence of curriculum effectiveness. We ensure that the curriculum in the OSCM area is aligned with global standards, industry trends, and the accrediting body’s criteria. Besides, we also enforce outcome-based teaching applying Bloom’s Taxonomy in every course. We also integrate essential skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, and digital proficiency into course outcomes. Faculty quality, research output, and industry engagement are key parameters in accreditation processes. We maintain high standards of teaching through innovative practices, student engagement, and effective delivery of course content. This is ensured by identifying the best relevant faculty from industry and academia for each course. Faculty also regularly publish impactful research in peer-reviewed journals and conferences. We collaborate with industry professionals for curriculum development, course design and delivery, evaluation, and action projects which ensures our industry engagement per accreditation bodies. Accreditation bodies emphasize student success metrics, which reflect the department’s ability to prepare industry-ready graduates. So, we track and document student achievements, placement records, and alumni career growth. We also conduct various continuous assessments that measure the achievement of learning outcomes. Continuous improvement is a critical component of accreditation, requiring departments to demonstrate progress over time. We define clear learning outcomes and assess them through direct and indirect methods. We collect feedback from students, alumni, employers, and faculty to identify areas for improvement and implement corrective measures based on feedback and maintain records for accreditation audits. We also manage documentation for accreditation self-study reports, such as course files, learning outcomes, and placement records.

Careers360: Students need to add value to their skill sets if they need to stand apart from the others for success. Can you give some pointers in this direction?

Dr. S. Jaya Krishna: To stand out in today’s competitive environment, students must go beyond academic excellence and actively enhance their skill sets. They should develop domain-specific expertise through professional certifications (Six Sigma, Lean, PMP, etc.), stay updated on emerging trends in their field (e.g., sustainability, AI in the supply chain, etc.), and engage in research or live projects to gain practical insights and deepen their subject expertise. Strengthening technical and digital skills is also very important. So, students should learn tools like Excel, Python, R, Tableau, or Power BI to analyse data and make informed decisions. They should get familiarised with platforms like SAP, Oracle, or Salesforce used in corporate environments, and should gain a working knowledge of artificial intelligence and machine learning concepts relevant to their domain. They should attend industry events, webinars, and conferences to build meaningful connections and enhance their professional visibility. On the other hand, they should also attend workshops, hackathons, or boot camps to gain hands-on experience in specific skills. Furthermore, they should seek meaningful internships that provide real-world exposure and networking opportunities.

Careers360: What are the common problem areas you face with students in the capacity of a department head?

Dr. S. Jaya Krishna: As a department head, interacting with students is both rewarding and challenging. While every institution and department are unique, some common problem areas arise when dealing with students. A lack of hands-on experience with software or tools (e.g., SAP, Tableau, Python) that are industry standards can hinder their employability. Many students are unclear about their career goals or lack awareness of the opportunities available in their domain.

Careers360: Departmental heads are figures of position and carry a lot of respect not just for their position but because they generally are great mentors. Can you give some examples of your mentorship?

Dr. S. Jaya Krishna: Mentored students in developing dissertation topics and conducting thorough research in areas like supply chain optimization, sustainability in operations, and digital transformation. Helped students navigate challenges like structuring their research, analysing data, and presenting findings effectively. Provided personalized career counselling to students uncertain about their career paths, helping them align their strengths and aspirations with industry opportunities. Connected students with professionals in my network, facilitating internships and live projects in operations and supply chain domains.

Careers360: What are some of the challenges faced by the faculty in today's world when it comes to teaching?

Dr. S. Jaya Krishna: A variety of challenges are faced by faculty today, as the teaching environment evolves rapidly due to technological advancements, shifting student expectations, and changes in industry requirements. Some of them include: staying updated with emerging fields like AI, sustainability, and digital transformation to incorporate them into teaching; keeping up with the latest educational technologies (e.g., AI-driven tools, or virtual labs) and integrating them effectively into teaching; capturing and retaining students' attention in an age where short-form content dominates their consumption habits; balancing teaching duties with administrative tasks like accreditation documentation, committee roles, and event management; finding time to conduct meaningful research while managing a full teaching load; and staying updated on pedagogical advancements, new technologies, and their subject area to remain effective educators.

Careers360: Any faculty or department head must keep up to date with the subjects they teach. How is this managed?

Dr. S. Jaya Krishna: Keeping up to date with the subjects taught is crucial for faculty and department heads to ensure the quality and relevance of the education provided. Given the rapid pace of change in industries, technologies, and research, staying updated is not just a necessity but also a responsibility. This is ensured through continuous professional development (workshops, industry conferences, etc.,); collaboration with industry which can provide firsthand exposure to real-world challenges and innovations that can be brought back to the classroom; publishing papers/presenting research at conferences ensures that faculty not only stay updated but also contribute to the academic community’s body of knowledge; and using technology and digital tools

Careers360: What are the challenges that MBA aspirants face today and how can they overcome these?

Dr. S. Jaya Krishna: The demanding nature of an MBA program, which often involves long hours of study, networking, and attending classes, can create challenges in maintaining a healthy work-life balance. This issue becomes even more complex for those juggling an MBA with family or a job. They should develop effective time management techniques such as task prioritization, setting realistic goals, and creating a schedule that balances study, work, and personal life. Networking is a crucial aspect of an MBA experience, yet many aspirants struggle with initiating and maintaining meaningful connections with peers, professors, and industry professionals. MBA students should actively participate in networking events, conferences, alumni meetups, and industry panels to build connections. They should also build a professional LinkedIn profile and engage in relevant discussions, groups, and forums. Not all MBA aspirants come with significant work experience, and those without prior exposure to the corporate world may struggle to relate to case studies and classroom discussions. MBA aspirants should engage in internships or consulting projects that align with their interests to build practical experience.

Careers360: Lastly, what would your message to students be?

Dr. S. Jaya Krishna: Your MBA journey is not just a stepping stone to a career; it's a platform for you to shape the kind of leader, innovator, and problem-solver you aspire to be. Embrace the journey of learning, growth, and transformation. The road ahead may not always be smooth, but every challenge you face is an opportunity to evolve and sharpen your skills. Take ownership of your education and make the most of the resources available to you. Stay curious, push boundaries, and be proactive in seeking knowledge, whether in the classroom, through internships, or by connecting with industry professionals. Remember, success isn’t just about academic achievements. It's about developing resilience, adaptability, and a mindset that embraces continuous learning. Build relationships, network, and learn from your peers and mentors. Be open to feedback and use it to improve.

Disclaimer: This content was distributed by BIM Trichy and has been published as part of Careers360’s marketing initiative.