Dr. Kavita Mathad is the Dean and Chief Growth Officer at GIBS Business School. She holds a Ph.D. in International Economics from Karnataka University. Her areas of expertise include Economics, International Business, and International Trade and Policy. She has been in academics for more than a decade working at reputed Business Schools and universities like Xavier Institute of Management and Entrepreneurship (XIME) Bangalore, Alliance Business Academy, Bangalore, IFIM Business School, Bangalore, Christ University, Bangalore, and Galgotias University, Greater Noida in various leadership positions and as a member of the core team of accreditations/rankings. Dr. Kavita Mathad has presented and published various research papers at both national and international levels. With her experience, Dr Kavita has organized various international conferences and Business Conclaves on topics related to International Business, Sustainable development, and Business Management. She has conducted and has been invited as a resource person and key speaker at various Quality Improvement Programmes, Faculty Development Programs, Management Development Programs, conferences, and webinars in diverse streams of Business Management. She is actively involved in consultancy and funded research projects. Dr. Kavita believes in continuous learning and has done numerous certification courses like the Global Business certification program from Harvard Business School online.

GIBS B School

What keeps you connected with the education sector?

My enduring connection to the education sector is fuelled by the potential to mold future leaders and thinkers. At GIBS, we not only impart knowledge but also shape character and foster innovation. This aligns with my philosophy of education as a transformative tool. Witnessing the evolution of students into responsible and creative professionals is deeply gratifying. My role in this sector is not just administrative it is about nurturing talents and ambitions, sharing ideas, and fulfilling dreams. The dynamic environment of GIBS, constantly evolving to meet the highest international standards, keeps me deeply engaged and motivates me to contribute meaningfully to the educational landscape.

How would you describe your leadership philosophy and style?

As the Dean of GIBS Business School, my leadership philosophy centered around fostering a culture of excellence and innovation. I believe in leading by inspiring and empowering others. My style is collaborative and participative, ensuring that the voices of faculty, students, and staff are heard and valued. I strive to cultivate an environment where creative ideas are encouraged and entrepreneurial mindsets are developed. At GIBS, we emphasize practical exposure and fieldwork, which are critical components of our educational approach. This hands-on, experiential learning model reflects my leadership style, emphasizing the practical application of knowledge and nurturing future-ready leaders.

What are the key programs available in your college?

At GIBS Business School, our strategy for key programs and plans revolves around maintaining a balance between academic rigor and industry relevance. We aim to provide an education that is both theoretically sound and practically applicable. Our marketing strategies highlight our unique features like the involvement of IIM alumni, connections with top industry leaders, and a comprehensive curriculum that includes 50% practical exposure. In administration, we focus on efficiency and maintaining a student-centric approach. We ensure that our programs, like the PGDM and BBA, are tailored to meet the evolving needs of the corporate world, as per our Customer In Corporate (CIC) model. This approach involves treating corporations not just as recruiters but as primary customers, ensuring our curriculum and training are industry-aligned and our graduates are industry-ready.

What benefits does your college offer to the inbound students?

The inbound students at GIBS Business School gain from a curriculum that blends global business practices with the rich, diverse cultural heritage of India. Our programs like PGDM and BBA offer a unique perspective on business education, combining international standards with local relevance. Students experience a diverse learning environment, enriched by our esteemed faculty and various industry experts. This exposure to different cultures and business practices and our focus on innovation, research, and entrepreneurship prepare students for global careers. Our Learning-by-doing model emphasizes practical exposure and provides students with hands-on experience, making them adept at navigating various business scenarios.

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How does your course curriculum ensure the best industry practices in the curriculum?

The curriculum at GIBS Business School is designed to ensure alignment with the best industry practices. Our programs, including the PGDM and BBA, offer dual specializations, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of various business domains. The curriculum is constantly updated to include the latest trends and technologies. Our emphasis on practical exposure, through industrial visits and internships, ensures that students gain firsthand experience of the business world. This approach is complemented by our Finishing School’s CPMP Program, which focuses on developing key competencies required in the corporate world.

How does your institute welcome new students?

We at GIBS Business School strive to create an inclusive environment for students of all races and economic backgrounds. We offer scholarships and flexible payment plans to ensure education is accessible to a wider demographic. Our admission process is designed to evaluate candidates holistically, considering not just academic achievements but also their potential to contribute to our diverse community. Our programs and extracurricular activities are structured to promote cultural understanding and respect. We aim to cultivate a campus culture that celebrates diversity and fosters a sense of belonging for every student.

What are your roles and responsibilities towards the students?

My role as the Dean of GIBS Business School encompasses a wide range of responsibilities. I am committed to maintaining the highest academic standards and ensuring that our curriculum remains relevant and forward-thinking. My responsibility extends to fostering a nurturing and supportive environment for both students and faculty. This involves being a mentor and a guide, helping students navigate their academic and professional paths. I also play a crucial role in strategic planning and implementing policies that align with our vision of being a top-tier business school. Ensuring that GIBS continues to excel in rankings and maintains strong industry connections is also a key aspect of my role.

What will be your college’s top priority for the next decade? 

The top priority for GIBS Business School in the next decade is to continue evolving as a center of excellence in business education. This involves expanding our global partnerships, enhancing our research capabilities, and integrating the latest technological advancements into our curriculum. We aim to strengthen our position as a leading business school not just in India but globally. A key focus will also be on fostering sustainable business practices and social responsibility among our students, preparing them to be leaders who can make a positive impact in the world.

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What is the vision for GIBS for the coming years?

My vision for GIBS has always been to establish it as a leading business school recognized globally for its academic excellence, innovative approach, and impactful research. Over time, this vision has evolved to include a strong focus on sustainability and social entrepreneurship. We are making significant progress in realizing this vision, with programs like PGDM and BBA receiving high rankings and accolades. Our focus on innovative teaching methodologies and industry-aligned curriculum is a testament to our commitment to this vision.

What are the unique aspects of GIBS Business School?

GIBS Business School is unique in its approach to business education, combining academic rigor with practical application. What sets us apart is our focus on innovation, research, and entrepreneurship integrated into all our programs. Our Finishing School’s CPMP Program is a distinctive feature, preparing students for the corporate world with essential skills. We offer global exposure through our foreign tours and interactions with international business leaders. Our vibrant student-driven societies and state-of-the-art infrastructure provide a holistic learning experience. These unique aspects contribute to our recognition as a top-ranked business school in India.

What challenges do you see for higher education and GIBS Business School?

The major challenges in higher education include adapting to technological advancements and meeting the evolving needs of the global job market. For GIBS Business School, the challenge lies in continuously innovating our teaching methods and ensuring our curriculum is relevant to the current business environment. As education becomes more globalized, another challenge is maintaining our competitive edge and expanding our international presence. Addressing these challenges involves a commitment to research, a focus on sustainable practices, and fostering a culture of continuous learning.

What is your advice to the youth and aspiring students? 

To the youth and aspiring students, my advice is to embrace every learning opportunity with enthusiasm and an open mind. In this rapidly changing world, adaptability and continuous learning are key. Focus on developing a diverse skill set, including soft skills, which are increasingly important in the global job market. Cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset regardless of your chosen field, as it enables you to be innovative and proactive. Finally, never underestimate the value of hard work and perseverance in achieving your goals.