Professor Bharadhwaj Sivakumaran is the esteemed Dean of the Paari School of Business at SRM University-AP. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades in academia, he is renowned for his dedication to fostering a dynamic and innovative learning environment. Prof. Bharadhwaj academic jour ney is marked by his PhD from the University of Maryland, where he embraced the philoso phy that “perfection is the goal, while excellence will be tolerated.” This principle continues to guide his approach to both teaching and re search. Under his leadership, the Paari School of Business aims to become one of the leading business schools in India within the next eight years. Prof. Sivakumaran envisions the school as the preferred institution for students, excelling in research, consulting, teaching, and executive education. His commitment to offering cutting-edge, differentiated programs is evident in the unique courses and innovative curriculum he has introduced. These efforts have already begun to yield results, with faculty from top-tier institutions, world-class infrastructure, and students gaining admission to prestigious graduate programs globally.
Can you share some insights into your early career and what inspired you to pursue a path in academia, specifically in marketing?
After completing my MBA nearly thirty years ago, I enjoyed a lucrative industry position. However, a passion for intellectual pursuits and knowledge sharing led me to transition into academia. Engaging with literature, staying updated with business developments, preparing for classes, and interacting with young minds drew me in. This passion prompted me to leave my industry job and become a lecturer.
My desire to develop future business leaders through teaching and research, combined with my MBA specialization and professional experience, made marketing a logical academic focus. My 14 Business Prizm 10 Most Inspiring Education Leaders In India 2024 background in consumer marketing led me to pursue a PhD in the same area. Immersing myself in academia has allowed me to delve deeper into consumer behavior, contribute to scholarly discourse, and foster a stimulating intellectual environment.
Having worked at prestigious institutions globally, how has this international exposure influenced your teaching and research methodologies?
My international experience at prestigious institutions has profoundly shaped my teaching and research methodologies. As a PhD student at the University of Maryland, I embraced the philosophy: “perfection is the goal, while excellence will be tolerated.” This instilled the importance of rigorous research, which I integrate into my teaching, providing students with cutting-edge knowledge. I adopt a student-centric approach, aiming to facilitate learning rather than induce stress. Unlike academicians who focus solely on textbook knowledge or excessively challenging exams, I prioritize student comprehension. I often tell my students, “My goal is to facilitate your learning, not to cause undue stress.” I also recognized the necessity of conducting world class research and publishing in leading international journals, with expertise in data analytics and experimental design being invaluable
What is your teaching philosophy, and how do you ensure that your students are engaged and motivated?
My teaching philosophy is simple: facilitate student learning. I focus on critical points while making classes enjoyable through videos, exercises, and in class jokes. With students having access to online resources, educators must add value beyond what’s available online.
I offer thought-provoking exercises, presentations, and discussions to enhance learning. By providing answers and fostering further discussion, I make classes immersive and engaging. As John McEnroe said, “You need to mix it up.” I use varied methods—lectures, videos, jokes, handouts, exercises, and case studies—to keep students motivated. A teacher should be a role model. I strive to be punctual, disciplined, impartial, respectful, and well prepared, setting a positive example for my students.
What are your primary goals and vision as the Dean of Paari School of Business at SRM University-AP?
My vision for the Paari School of Business at SRM University-AP is to become a premier business school in the country within eight years. We aim to excel in research, consulting, teaching, and executive education, offering innovative programs. Our alumni will become prominent business figures, establishing ventures and leading enterprises within five years of graduation.
We are on our way to this vision with faculty from top institutions, world-class infrastructure, outstanding students, distinguished visiting faculty, and a unique curriculum, including courses like Samaj Seva, Mind and Soul Training, and Happening Happenings. Our research is robust, placements are exceptional, and our BBA students are securing admissions to prestigious institutions like Carnegie Mellon University for their Master’s degrees.
What keeps you motivated and passionate about your work after more than two decades in academia?
After over two decades in academia, my motivation and passion are driven by a continuous desire to learn and contribute. I am committed to using my strengths and intelligence to their fullest potential. With a significant need to advance our country’s development in the coming decades, I am eager to contribute to this journey.
I am dedicated to passing on the valuable experience and knowledge I’ve gained to students and faculty. Witnessing my students’ success brings me immense joy and fulfilment. The trust SRM University-AP has placed in me as the Dean of the Paari School of Business is an honor, and I strive to uphold it consistently.
The trust SRM University-AP has placed in me as the Dean of the Paari School of Business is an honor, and I strive to uphold it consistently. T his dedication brings me great joy. I approach each day with enthusiasm, a spring in my step as I enter the classroom, and a smile at the end of the day.