Arvind Thilak Pillutla, EMBA 2025
Pursuing further education is a bold step, especially when you already have a thriving career. Here's a look into Arvind’s SP Jain Global EMBA journey.

1. Could you briefly introduce yourself?

I am an Assistant Manager and Business Analyst in the Telco BSS domain, specifically focusing on product catalogues, ordering, and billing systems for Vodafone Italy. With a mechanical engineering background and several years of experience in telecom, I have developed deep technical and domain expertise.

However, I began feeling limited; I wanted to expand my impact beyond operational problem-solving. I was keen to gain a broader business perspective, understand how organisations function strategically and prepare myself for leadership roles. That desire for growth led me to explore an Executive MBA, and SP Jain Global stood out for its global orientation, industry-focused curriculum, and cohort diversity.

2. How has the EMBA changed your approach to strategic decision-making?

The change in my thinking has been profound. Earlier, my decisions were mostly tactical. Now, I step back to evaluate decisions based on long-term implications, risk management, and alignment with organisational goals.

Courses like Strategic Management, Strategic Finance, and Innovation and Entrepreneurship gave me the framework to structure my thinking. I now analyse situations through lenses such as stakeholder value, competitive advantage, and cross-functional impact. This has improved my decision-making and how I communicate those decisions across teams and leadership.

3. Were there any standout projects or modules that shaped your journey?

Absolutely. The Applied Strategic Project was a highlight. It gave us the opportunity to address a real business problem from beginning to end—data gathering, stakeholder interviews, market analysis, strategy formulation, and implementation planning. This hands-on experience was invaluable because it brought together everything we’d been learning in class.

Simulation-based modules and live case studies (often from Harvard and other global sources) also gave our learning a practical dimension. These weren’t hypothetical problems; they mirrored the complexity and ambiguity of real-world business environments.

4. How did peer interactions from diverse backgrounds impact you?

Interacting with a diverse cohort was one of the most enriching parts of the program. We had professionals from aerospace, logistics, healthcare, fintech, marketing—you name it. Each brought a unique perspective shaped by their industry, function, and geography.

This diversity made group discussions more vibrant and broadened my thinking. It forced me to question assumptions and appreciate alternative approaches to problem-solving. I became a better listener, empathetic team member, and confident communicator. Professionally, it helped me build a robust network and gain insights that I’ve already started applying in my role.

5. What teaching or course design aspects stood out most to you?

SP Jain Global strikes a strong balance between academic theory and practical relevance. The faculty are seasoned professionals with rich industry backgrounds, which makes classroom sessions highly engaging. The program's modular format also deserves credit. It allowed me to continue working full-time while pursuing the EMBA, with weekend sessions and asynchronous learning components that didn’t compromise depth. While it demanded discipline, the structure made it sustainable.

6. What advice would you give to prospective EMBA students?

If you’re at a stage in your career where you’re ready to transition from being a domain expert to a strategic leader, this EMBA can be a powerful enabler. It’s not just about learning finance, marketing, or operations but about reshaping how you think, collaborate, and lead.  

The program will push you out of your comfort zone, challenge assumptions, and open doors to global perspectives. It’s intense, but every assignment, project, and discussion adds lasting value. I came into the program looking to grow professionally, and I’m leaving with a new mindset, a broader network, and a renewed sense of purpose.

About the Author

Arvind Thilak Pillutla is a seasoned Business Analyst with a mechanical engineering background and over a decade of experience in the telecommunications industry. He specialises in product catalogue management, enterprise systems, and business process optimisation.

Curious how others have transformed their careers? Click here to read more EMBA success stories from our students.