Industry engagement session: Inspiring future business leaders

As part of SPJIMR’s continued efforts to bridge classroom learning with industry practice, students had the opportunity to engage with senior leaders from HSBC India in an insightful Leadership Talk and Engagement Session.

The session featured Mr. Ranjan Bhattacharya, Managing Director, Head of Strategy, India & Middle East, and Chief of Staff, India, HSBC (SPJIMR Alumnus), along with Ms. Aparna Rai, Vice President, Human Resources, HSBC India.

The session focused on the evolving financial services landscape, the role of strategy in global banking, and the importance of developing industry-ready professionals. Mr. Bhattacharya began by reflecting on his journey at SPJIMR (1999–2001), sharing how campus recruitment and the banking landscape have evolved over the years, including the fact that HSBC did not recruit from SPJIMR during his student days. This nostalgic beginning seamlessly transitioned into an engaging discussion on capital markets, with interactive questions that encouraged students to think critically.

A key highlight of the session was the emphasis on connecting academic learning with real-world business practices. The speakers discussed how industry expectations continue to evolve and highlighted the importance of adaptability, curiosity, and continuous learning in building successful careers. Students also gained insights into HSBC’s culture, leadership philosophy, and the opportunities available within the organisation.

Key takeaways

Participant reflections