On 12 April 2025, VESIM hosted an insightful and forward-looking panel discussion on “Embracing Workplace Disruptions.” at VESIM Auditorium The event brought together thought leaders from the HR domain to explore how organizations and professionals can navigate the evolving world of work.
Setting the Context
The session opened with an inspiring address by Dr. Vijay T. Raisinghani, Director -VESIM. He warmly welcomed the speakers, students and faculty members. He highlighted the importance of preparing students to not only understand the nature of workplace disruption but also respond to it with adaptability and confidence. Emphasizing the value of industry academia collaborations, he reiterated VESIM’s mission of bridging theoretical learning with real-world challenges.
A Power-Packed Panel
The session featured an impressive panel of HR leaders from varied sectors, bringing rich perspectives and lived experiences to the table:
- Ajay Jhunjhunwala, CHRO, PL Capital Group
- Manoj Pandey, VP – Head Human Resources, Grauer & Weil (India) Ltd.
- Pravin Sawant, Senior VP & CHRO, 63 Moons Technologies Ltd.
- Abhijit Bose, Head – Human Capital Management & Administration, Yes Securities
- Rakesh Ebrahimpurkar, VP – HR, IFTAS
Seeing Disruption as a Launchpad
Opening the discussion, Mr. Ajay Jhunjhunwala encouraged students to see disruption not as a threat but as an opportunity for reinvention. Using the rapid uptake of digital payments in rural India as an example, he highlighted how even the most traditional sectors can evolve with the right mindset. His message was clear: adaptability and openness to change are key traits for future professionals.
Decoding Uncertainty: VUCA and BANI Frameworks
Dr. Manoj Pandey provided a conceptual framework through VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous) and BANI (Brittle, Anxious, Non-linear, Incomprehensible), which help decode today’s volatile business climate. He stressed that emotional intelligence and preparedness are just as vital as strategic thinking in responding to uncertainty. Referencing the COVID-19 pandemic, he noted that unpredictability is here to stay and emphasized the importance of emotional resilience alongside technical competence.
Turning Global Shifts into Local Wins
Mr. Pravin Sawant brought a global lens to the conversation. Drawing from international examples, he illustrated how global events such as trade disruptions or supply chain reconfigurations can create new avenues for innovation and growth. He encouraged students to think beyond reacting to change instead, they should aim to lead it by identifying emerging opportunities early.
Innovation Beyond the Obvious:
Mr. Abhijit Bose inspired students with examples of companies like Zepto, which have disrupted the retail sector with customer-centric innovations like dark stores. He urged future leaders to think creatively and to challenge conventional models by developing bold, solution-oriented ideas.
Human Skills in the Age of AI:
Closing the discussion, Mr. Rakesh Ebrahimpurkar emphasized that while AI and automation are driving much of today’s disruption, human qualities—creativity, curiosity, and emotional intelligence—remain irreplaceable.
He encouraged students to continue learning through platforms like LinkedIn Learning and Coursera and to remain lifelong learners in a rapidly evolving landscape
Learnings from Industry Leaders
This engaging discussion gave VESIM students a unique opportunity to interact with industry stalwarts and gain practical wisdom beyond textbooks. From strategic frameworks to real-world success stories, the session enriched their understanding of how to approach disruption with confidence and creativity. More importantly, it bridged the often-noted gap between academic theory and workplace application, helping students develop the mindset needed to lead in today’s uncertain business world.
