SPJIMR alumnus shares his transformative career journey to becoming a director at Google
SPJIMR Marketing and Communications Dept.
Bhaskar Ramesh’s career path is a remarkable tale of transformation, resilience, and success. From his beginnings as an Arts graduate working with the Indian Railways to becoming a Director at Google India, his journey is inspiring for anyone looking to make significant strides in their professional life. His experiences at the S. P. Jain Institute of Management and Research (SPJIMR) played a crucial role in shaping his career, particularly in branding and technology.
The early days: From Arts graduate to business professional
My initial foray into the professional world was far from what I would eventually achieve. As an Arts graduate, my exposure to business concepts was quite limited until I enrolled at SPJIMR. It was here that I was introduced to the fundamentals of marketing and information management technology. This pivotal moment truly laid the groundwork for my future successes.
SPJIMR provided me with my first real taste of business education. I recall how the curriculum and environment fostered a new way of thinking. It was during the postgraduate diploma in management (PGDM) offered by SPJIMR that I began to understand the intricacies of brand building and consumer engagement.
Falling in love with brand-building
One of the defining moments in my career was my autumn placement with Procter & Gamble (P&G). This experience ignited my passion for brand building, sales, and marketing, particularly in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector. My time at P&G allowed me to dive deep into the world of brands, teaching me valuable lessons that I have carried throughout my career.
As I progressed in my career, I found myself at the intersection of consumers, technology, and brands. This unique positioning allowed me to leverage my skills in a rapidly evolving market. My ability to understand consumer behaviour while embracing technological advancements has set me apart as a leader in the industry.
My career trajectory
Before my decade-long tenure at Google, I began my career with major consumer goods companies like P&G, Godrej, and Marico, where I held various brand management roles in the food and personal care sectors. I later transitioned to the media and entertainment industry, taking on diverse responsibilities at Reliance Broadcast Network as VP of Operations, overseeing marketing, sales, content planning, and programming.
I then spearheaded the growth of YouTube India, leading monetisation and product strategy efforts that transformed YouTube into a multibillion-dollar business. Prior to this, I served as an Executive Summits Evangelist at Google Partnerplex at the Mountain View HQ and was instrumental in building the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry vertical in India from scratch.
Currently, I am the Director of Omnichannel Businesses at Google India and a core member of the India leadership team. In this role, I am forging partnerships across technology, retail, finance, CPG, and automotive sectors to drive technological transformation. My vision is to establish Google as the gateway for omnichannel commerce in India.
Additionally, I co-chair the women@google India initiative, a vibrant community dedicated to supporting women Googlers in achieving successful and fulfilling careers.
Bhaskar Ramesh’s LinkedIn profile
Reflections on career growth
Two decades after graduation, I wish I had joined a tech company sooner, recognising the growing importance of technology in all sectors. My insights provide a roadmap for those aspiring to excel in their careers.
There exists a dire need for a tech lens in problem-solving. Regardless of one’s specialisation, understanding technology is crucial in today’s business landscape. The integration of technology into various fields is a trend that cannot be ignored.
Friendships that last a lifetime!
Initially, SPJIMR emphasised the importance of networking with a diverse cohort, world-class faculty, and industry leaders for holistic development. However, much later in life, I realised that the friendships and connections I made during this period were invaluable. I realise that the relationships formed at SPJIMR are not just professional connections; they are friendships that endure. The batch of 2002 has maintained a close-knit community, often engaging through WhatsApp groups and organising reunions. These gatherings strengthen our bonds and provide a support system as we navigate our careers. I am proud to mention the strong ties with my batchmates from 2002, who are now leaders in various sectors across the globe.
Key competencies for success
Having decades of experience, I strongly feel that there are several competencies that are essential for achieving success in an MBA programme, and beyond. These include:
- Critical thinking
- Leadership skills
- Creativity
- Adaptability to change
Investing in these skills will prepare individuals for the challenges of the modern workplace. They are desirable and necessary for any aspiring professional.
Stay open to opportunities and prioritise excellence in learning
One of the most powerful pieces of advice I can offer management aspirants is to remain open to opportunities. The career path is rarely linear, and embracing serendipity can lead to unexpected and rewarding experiences. I encourage individuals to focus on excellence in their current learning endeavours.
I truly believe that the pursuit of knowledge should be a lifelong journey. By prioritising learning and striving for excellence, individuals can position themselves for success in any field they choose. This mindset will enable them to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing professional landscape.
Takeaways from this incredible journey of transformation
Bhaskar Ramesh’s journey from an Arts graduate to a successful director at Google India is a testament to the transformative power of education, networking, and embracing change. His experiences at SPJIMR laid the foundation for a career built on passion, innovation, and lifelong learning. For anyone looking to carve their own path in the business world, Bhaskar’s insights serve as a guiding light.
As you embark on your own professional journey, remember the importance of building a network, embracing technology, and prioritising your personal development. The lessons learned from leaders like Bhaskar can inspire and motivate you to achieve your goals and make a lasting impact in your chosen field.
Watch Bhaskar Ramesh talk about the contributions of SPJIMR, beyond the degree!
For more than two decades, PGDM graduates have consistently achieved a perfect placement record. In the 2023 Financial Times Masters in Management (FT MiM) Rankings, SPJIMR was ranked 8th globally and 2nd in India for Career Services. This ranking highlights the effectiveness of the institution’s career services in facilitating successful placements.
Final placements highlights 2024
