Effective leadership not only sets the tone for the institution’s culture and values but also plays a crucial role in shaping the future of its students and stakeholders. With the challenges of globalization, technological advancements, and shifting market dynamics, it is essential for management institutions to have visionary leaders who can navigate complexity, foster innovation, and drive sustainable growth.
Dr. Nandita Mishra, the Director of Chetana’s Institute of Management and Research (CIMR), stands out as a welcome example in this domain. With her extensive experience, academic expertise, and commitment to excellence, Dr. Mishra embodies the qualities of a transformative leader. Under her guidance, CIMR has thrived as a center of learning, innovation, and industry engagement, consistently delivering high-quality education and producing future-ready leaders.
From the Scratch
Dr. Nandita Mishra was born in Sambalpur, a town in Western Odisha. Her educational journey commenced at St. Joseph’s Convent High School, where she was shaped by the comprehensive curriculum that fostered a multidisciplinary approach to learning, spanning Science, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Arts. Throughout her schooling, she held leadership roles such as house captain and head prefect, and served as president of the Interact Club, experiences which instilled in her a sense of accountability, discipline, and social skills. Growing up in a family that celebrated studies, education, and knowledge, Dr. Mishra’s passion for academia was nurtured from an early age.
Building upon her outstanding academic record, Dr. Mishra embarked on her educational and professional journey with zeal. She earned Gold Medals in Economics for both her Master’s and MPhil degrees, in addition to completing a Postgraduate Diploma in Human Resource Management (PGDHRM), a PhD, and a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Management.
Expanding Horizons
Dr. Mishra’s teaching career commenced in Kolkata and later extended to Chennai, where she taught Economics across various undergraduate and postgraduate programs. This period played a crucial role in shaping her interest in academia and management education, driven by the diverse subject matter and its impact on students’ professional trajectories.
In 2000, Dr. Mishra’s career took an international turn as she relocated to Muscat, Oman. There, she embraced the opportunity to teach in the Management Program at Mazoon College of Management & Applied Sciences. It was during this tenure that transformative advice from the Dean redirected her focus toward applied courses in Management, integrating Economics with practical management disciplines. This guidance marked a significant shift in her career trajectory, leading her to concentrate exclusively on Business Schools thereafter.
Driven by her evolving interest in academia and management education, she actively engages in research areas such as women empowerment, sustainability, organizational development, and higher education. Dr. Mishra firmly believes in action research that leads to tangible implementation and strives to contribute to the field through innovative teaching and impactful research endeavors.
Journey towards CIMR
Due to her husband’s transferable job, Dr. Nandita Mishra and her family have moved in and out of Mumbai. However, she has always held a special affinity for Chetana’s Institute of Management & Research (CIMR), stating, “If it’s Mumbai, it has to be Chetana’s Institute of Management & Research.” Her association with CIMR dates back to 2006 when she began as a visiting faculty, eventually transitioning to a regular faculty member. In 2016, she was appointed as a Professor and subsequently promoted to the position of Dean before assuming the role of Director in 2021.
Dr. Mishra finds her association with CIMR deeply gratifying as it aligns with her career goals and values, allowing her to make a responsible contribution to society while advancing professionally.
CIMR in a Nutshell
Ranked among the top 10 MBA Institutes in Mumbai, the institute is dedicated to cultivating business leaders who drive societal progress towards a brighter future. With PGDM courses that draw students from all corners of the country, it has earned recognition as one of India’s premier B-schools, particularly in Mumbai. Emphasizing an industry-driven curriculum, the institute aims to provide the most current and relevant management and research education. The faculty, renowned for their expertise, enhance student learning through practical exercises and activities.
The legacy of its Founder President, Late Shri Madhukarrao Chaudhari, continues to be upheld by his son, Shri Shirish Chaudhari, Secretary of Chetana Trust, along with the constant support of Dr. Madhumita Patil, the CEO. Together, the top management endeavors to educate students from both rural and urban areas, preparing them to tackle real-life challenges and contribute to building a healthy and self-reliant society.
Knowing Dr. Nandita Mishra
Dr. Nandita Mishra candidly acknowledges that the concept of work-life balance often remains more theoretical than practical. Her daily schedule is packed with various tasks, including commuting, attending meetings and lectures, conducting mentoring sessions, and engaging in academic and institutional development activities, all while balancing family care duties. Throughout the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the unwavering support from her family, particularly her spouse, has been invaluable, underscoring the importance of a supportive household.
To unwind, Dr. Mishra indulges in hobbies such as cooking, singing, gardening, and watching movies, finding them to be effective stress relievers that rejuvenate her spirit for tackling new challenges.
Driven by a genuine passion for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), an area in which she holds a PhD and certification as a trainer, Dr. Mishra actively engages in philanthropic endeavors. CIMR’s involvement in numerous CSR initiatives allows her to guide students towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, thereby contributing to societal betterment. Notably, CIMR’s collaboration with Kusuamtai Chaudhari Mahila Kalyani, an NGO under Chetana’s Trust, holds particular significance. Their joint efforts aim to empower women entrepreneurs towards financial independence and self-reliance. These initiatives not only fulfill a social responsibility but also closely align with Dr. Mishra’s personal values and aspirations for making a positive impact on society.