INSPIRO 5: Event Report

Introduction

INSPIRO 2024, a premier initiative by the Entrepreneurship and Consulting Cell of SCMHRD, brought together industry leaders, academic experts, and students to engage in panel discussions on consulting and entrepreneurship. Held on 21st November 2024 via Microsoft Teams, the event attracted over 200 participants, fostering collaboration and idea exchange.

Event Overview

Format: Online Panel Discussion

Date: 21st November 2024

Audience: SCMHRD students and faculty

Participants: More than 200 students from diverse specializations attended the event.

Consulting Panel

The theme ‘Navigating Industry Disruptions: The Consultant’s Role in Rapid Change’ centered on consultants’ critical role during upheaval periods in industries. Panelists discussed how consultants must adapt to shifting market dynamics, provide strategic insights, and leverage technology to drive success. Specific focus was given to the following areas:

• Providing Strategic Guidance Amid Industry Disruption: Panelists explained how consultants can become indispensable allies for businesses navigating change. They shared case studies on tackling rapid transformations in sectors like energy and pharmaceuticals by employing data-driven decision-making and scenario planning.
• Redefining Business Models: The discussion highlighted the importance of redesigning traditional business models to remain competitive. Examples included creating leaner operations and adopting agile methodologies to counter disruptions.
• Leveraging Technology in Consulting: Technology’s transformative role in consulting was emphasized, with examples of tools like advanced analytics, AI-driven insights, and digital transformation strategies being used to create robust solutions.

Esteemed panelists included Sonal Tripathy (Bain & Company), Shikhar Gupta (PwC), Kanhai Choudhary (KPMG), Preeti Khattri (Accenture), and Inder N Dua (Infosys). Dr. Pankaj V. Sharma, Associate Professor of Finance at SCMHRD, moderated the discussion. Panelists also spoke about the value of soft skills, such as empathy and communication, in establishing trust during turbulent times.

Consulting Panel

Entrepreneurship Panel

The theme ‘Building a Brand from Scratch: Establishing a unique identity in a competitive market’ provided insights into the intricacies of brand building in competitive markets. The panelists shed light on strategies for creating a unique identity, emphasizing storytelling, customer engagement, and innovation. The discussion was structured around the following key points:

• Disruptive Business Models: Entrepreneurs shared their experiences of reshaping industries through bold ideas. For instance, Eleride’s focus is on sustainable last-mile delivery, and Twisted Tiffin’s reinvention of the food delivery experience.
• Fostering Startup Ecosystems: The discussion included creating supportive environments for startups. Panelists highlighted government initiatives, networking opportunities, and funding strategies as crucial enablers for new ventures.
• Leadership in the Digital Era: The session emphasized how entrepreneurs must exhibit agility and resilience to thrive in a tech-driven world. Real-world examples demonstrated how leaders harnessed technology to adapt quickly to changing consumer needs.

Panelists also shared their perspectives on the power of storytelling to connect with customers and create lasting brand loyalty. The discussion included challenges faced in scaling operations and strategies to overcome them.

Distinguished speakers included Niraj Kumar Mishra (Eleride), Mittanshu Satla (Twisted Tiffin), Rahul Lakhmani (Skiify Solutions Pvt Ltd), Palash Arneja (Unikon.ai), and Adittya Dhingra (Puppiezo). Mr. Miresh Sheth, an accomplished professional with expertise in engineering management, moderated the session.

Entrepreneurship Panel

Conclusion

INSPIRO 2024 successfully facilitated insightful discussions on consulting and entrepreneurship, equipping students with valuable perspectives on navigating industry disruptions and building impactful ventures. The event stood as a testament to SCMHRD’s commitment to fostering innovation and leadership among its students.