PGPFMB 37 mentor workshop

SPJIMR’s Centre for Family Business & Entrepreneurship (CFBE) hosted the mentors of PGPFMB batch 37 for a workshop specially designed for parents of PGPFMB participants who are currently leading their family businesses. The mentor workshop aimed to help them refine their roles as guides and guardians of their business legacy.

Mentorship and governance

The day began with an interactive masterclass led by Prof. Tulsi Jayakumar, Executive Director, CFBE. She addressed the three essential layers of governance: corporate, ownership, and family governance.

The session encouraged open dialogue, with mentors posing practical questions as they explored these frameworks. Many participants noted that these perspectives offered new and eye-opening insights into their business structures.

Transparency and the family constitution

Mentors then connected virtually with Shri Ramesh Agarwalji, Chairman of Agarwal Packers and Movers Ltd. He shared the core values behind his business journey, emphasising that everyone within an organisation must practice its fundamental principles. He introduced his unique approach of treating employees as partners in growth, or Sahyogis, rather than mere staff. His central message reminded parents that a promise remains the strongest currency in business, and character represents the most important asset to pass down to the next generation.

Will making and estate planning

Mr Jatin Popat, Founder and CEO of WillJini, led the final mentor-only session, focusing on often-overlooked topics such as wills and family trusts. He addressed the common hesitation surrounding these subjects and used real-world examples to demonstrate the necessity of legal planning. Mentors learned the technical steps for registering a will and the practical benefits of establishing a family trust. The session focused squarely on strategies to protect and preserve family wealth.

Selecting elective specialisations

The day concluded as FMB 37 students joined their parents for sessions on elective specialisations: Retail, Real Estate, Service, and Manufacturing. Attending these sessions together allowed families to discuss strategic ideas directly with the faculty. This shared experience helped students gain clear direction on which elective best suited the specific needs and future goals of their family firm.