Dr. KM Ramachandran: From a Village Boy to a Corporate Leader and a Social Reformer --[Reported by Umva mag]

Balancing Corporate Objectives with Genuine Care for People!

The business environment provides numerous obstacles, leaving even the most experienced leaders feeling uncertain. Successfully managing these complexities necessitates a unique blend of experience, knowledge, and creative thinking. To sustain their competitive advantage, leaders must be watchful and willing to alter their plans in reaction to unforeseen market shifts and potentially disruptive technology.

But for those who seek a compass, there’s hope of guidance in the form of Ramachandran, a seasoned HR leader who has mastered the art of translating big ideas into actionable strategies. With a career spanning over 3 decades, Ramachandran has become a symbol of superiority in human resources management. His journey from ABB Ltd. to the Torrent Group has been marked by a unique ability to simplify complex concepts, making them accessible to all levels of an organization.

This philosophy of making ideas work for everyone has been the foundation of his success, earning him recognition far beyond the boardroom. His recent Doctor of Professional Studies in Human Resources Management from an international university is just one example of his expertise.

But what sets him apart is not just his academic achievements or corporate accolades. It is his innate understanding of people and processes that makes him a true asset in today’s progressive business domain. Whether it’s developing leadership programs or streamlining organizational structures, he approaches each task with a blend of analytical precision and human empathy.

As businesses grapple with unprecedented challenges, leaders like Ramachandran offer a roadmap to success. His story is not just about personal victories but also about lifting others and creating a culture of continuous learning and growth. In him, we see the future of HR leadership, one that balances corporate objectives with genuine care for people. His journey reminds us that in the world of business, the greatest asset is not just knowledge but also the ability to share it effectively, transforming complex ideas into learnable lessons for all.

Let us learn more about his journey:

The Unyielding Spirit of Ram

Ramachandran is a person who never exaggerates the challenges he faces. Throughout his life, he has never sought excuses to evade his responsibilities, even during the unprecedented times of the pandemic. Remarkably, he did not spend a single day in comfort at home during the lockdown.

As the President of the Malayali ethnic-driven Ahmedabad Kerala Samajam (AKS), which comprises 6,500 families, he with his committed Team undertook extensive fieldwork to assist those who were suffering during this difficult period. His efforts included mobilizing resources, facilitating the safe return of individuals to Kerala, and providing meals, medical and psychological support to those in need.

During the pandemic, Ramachandran increased his workload, fully aware that it was a time of heightened distress for many. On the professional front, he faced significant challenges in talent management at Troikaa Pharmaceuticals Ltd., where he served as Senior Vice President in charge of Human Resources. Many employees were hesitant to return to work amid the ongoing crisis, and the social chaos only added to the complexity of the situation. Despite these obstacles, Ramachandran remained steadfast in his commitment to support his community and his organization with ardent support of its Management.

A self-made individual in every sense, Ramachandran exudes an optimism that has propelled him far beyond the mere physical distance between Thrissur and Baroda. At the tender age of 18, he embarked on a journey that would shape his future. Boarding a train from Wadakkanchery, Thrissur, he was too young to envision the lofty aspirations that awaited him, particularly in the realm of senior executive roles. Upon arriving in Baroda —then a modest city that he described as a “glorified village”—he joined his elder brother who was already making strides in his career with ONGC, setting a precedent for Ram’s own ambitions.

A Turning Point in Career

Upon arriving in Baroda in pursuit of employment, Ramachandran found himself at the renowned multinational engineering firm, Hindustan Brown Boveri (HBB), located in Baroda. This opportunity marked the beginning of an impressive career and served as a pivotal moment that would alter the trajectory of his life. He reflected on this experience, stating, “That was migration in the real sense of the term, not just a shift in living geography.”

Following HBB’s merger with Asia and becoming ABB, a significant transition occurred as 19 employees from the Baroda unit were relocated to Bangalore, with Ramachandran being among them. The move to Bangalore, closer to his hometown, filled him with joy. The multinational company’s dynamic work environment, the five-day workweek, and the chance to travel back home weekly were enviable perks for someone of his age and qualifications at that time.

However, Ramachandran understood that a position in a large corporation would not offer long-term prospects, given his secondary school education. Recognizing the need for advancement, he acknowledged the importance of “upscaling” his skills to successfully navigate the challenges that lay ahead. With determination, he embarked on a journey of preparation, ready to rise to the occasion and seize the opportunities that awaited him.

From Humble Beginnings to Corporate Success

Originating from a farming family and being one of seven siblings, he had little to fuel his dreams until he joined ABB. This pivotal moment ignited within him a burgeoning ambition for executive success. While many in his position would have felt content with a respectable job at a well-known multinational company, he was not the average young man of his time. Instead, he envisioned possibilities that extended far beyond the conventional aspirations of his peers.

With grit and determination, he acknowledged the challenge of self-discovery, identifying and nurturing his innate potential. Methodically, he began to elevate himself, managing the complexities of corporate culture and striving to achieve his goals. This journey represented a significant transformation, marking his transition from a rural upbringing to the professional realm of corporate executives.

His self-motivation and relentless work ethic propelled him forward, allowing him to ascend rapidly within ABB. Through dedication and perseverance, he achieved the remarkable feat of earning a double promotion, reaching the esteemed officer grade in record time.

Power of Aspirations

Ram’s journey illustrates how aspirations and the pursuit of significant goals at a young age can shape one’s future. Recognizing the importance of enhanced career prospects, he understood that obtaining a higher educational qualification was essential for thriving in a multinational company and effectively managing a new generation of qualified professionals. With determination, he set his sights on university graduation, embodying his characteristic approach of conquering the seemingly unconquerable.

Aware of the necessity for personal development, Ramachandran recognized that mastering corporate language, adhering to dress codes, and understanding workplace etiquette, professional disposition were crucial for success. He embarked on a comprehensive learning journey, moving away from the rural legacy of limited knowledge about professional conduct and communication skills that many migrants faced during that era.

Ramachandran realized that mere academic qualifications were insufficient for excelling as a corporate executive. True competence required a blend of skills that extended beyond academic excellence. He had the foresight to anticipate the evolving demands of the corporate world, positioning himself ahead of the curve. This proactive mindset became one of the secrets to his success, enabling him to navigate generational changes while effectively managing critical corporate roles in human resources, administration, corporate affairs, and communication.

Transition to Torrent Group

Ram’s decision to return to Ahmedabad and join Torrent Group after over a decade with a prestigious multinational company did not unfold as smoothly as he had envisioned. At ABB, his management was reluctant to let him go, ultimately offering him the option to return whenever he desired. Nevertheless, Ramachandran chose to embark on a new chapter with Torrent, a company that was in its nascent stages of growth and diversification.

For an average Malayali at that time, relocating from Bangalore to Ahmedabad after leaving a multinational firm seemed impractical. However, Ramachandran has personal reasons for this move, as his parents-in-law settled near Ahmedabad. His return also aligned with potential opportunities abroad, which, unfortunately, did not materialize. Meanwhile, his wife, who worked at the State Bank of India, remained in Bangalore due to her transfer after their marriage. It took some time before she could join him in Ahmedabad. Reflecting on this period, Ramachandran remarked, “Sometimes, all plans may not work out at the exact moment one desires. However, often delayed plans can yield better outcomes.”

At Torrent, Ramachandran steadily ascended to the position of Group level activities as Vice President, overseeing Human Resources, Administration, Corporate Affairs, and Corporate Communication. He managed a team of over 300 employees, including several high-profile General Managers and Assistant General Managers. “It was a place where performers were recognized,” he recalls. “I dedicated significant effort to becoming competent enough to manage a diverse range of professionals over my 21 years in the organization. Torrent truly nurtured my growth.”

Ramachandran fondly remembers the management’s decision to send him to a six-month residential course at the Tata Management Training Centre in Pune, where he was one of only two candidates outside the Tata Group. Following that, Torrent sponsored him for a Management Development Programme at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Ahmedabad. He also earned an MBA in General Management and a Post Graduate Diploma in Human Resources Management (PGD-HRM).

When a corporate entity invests in sending a senior executive to a prestigious and costly program, it naturally carries high expectations for that individual. Ramachandran consistently rose to the challenge, proving himself to be an “outstanding” performer in periodic evaluation, which led to expanded responsibilities. “Fortunately, I was able to meet the management’s expectations and validate their confidence in me during those evaluations,” he adds, reflecting on his successful journey at Torrent.

Leadership and Determination

Despite having no intention of remaining in Ahmedabad for an extended period, as he yearned to pursue opportunities abroad, fate had different plans for Ram. His position at Torrent opened up new avenues and enhanced prospects, largely due to his exemplary professional demeanor, which aligned perfectly with the corporate standards of the time. Ram’s impressive approach as a corporate professional, rather than merely a compliant employee, greatly impressed the Torrent Group, particularly during its formative stages of establishing a professional corporate culture. The trust, faith, and unwavering support from management have been truly inspiring, shaping me into who I am today.

The exemplary work culture Ramachandran had absorbed from his experience at ABB, combined with his outstanding leadership qualities and integrity, ensured that excuses were never an option for underperformance. All obstacles exist only due to excuses. I don’t like to indulge in any trading of excuses for not doing anything that I am assigned,” he stated firmly.

His leadership was further demonstrated through the art festival hosted by AKS in 2009, which attracted over 7,500 attendees without charging a single rupee from its members. A subsequent larger event three years later drew a crowd exceeding 15,000, showcasing his exceptional capabilities as a leader. In 2015, AKS’s “Welcome 70” was added to the roster of the ethnic association’s vibrant programs. “These social events instilled a deep sense of confidence within the community, proving that with determination, anything is possible and every challenge can be overcome.”

Ramachandran boasts an impressive list of achievements and an enviable track record of leading numerous social projects and participating in various academic initiatives. He has engaged in numerous social and economic programs, both private and government-sponsored, earning him a plethora of distinguished awards. Among these accolades, the Most Admired Global Indian Award, received last year, Gems of Gujarat, etc. stands out as most coveted.

As an expert in Human Resources and Administration, Ramachandran firmly believes that excuses are detrimental to personal growth. He asserts that neither the world nor individuals would have undergone significant transformations if everyone chose to succumb to excuses. His philosophy revolves around thinking big, leading substantial assignments, and managing extensive tasks, which positions him as an exemplary leader. “Whatever you do, do it in a big way. Things will fall into place,” he maintains.

In his journey, Ramachandran has rediscovered the profound wisdom of Napoleon’s saying, “Nothing is impossible.” He emphasizes the importance of self-trust as a means to resist negativity from others. “Possibilities and impossibilities are the results of how a person frames their mind regarding any task,” he explains, reflecting on his admirable social contributions and professional challenges.

“As you move forward with determination, what you once perceived as unachievable becomes tantalizingly closer to success,” he asserts. With a wealth of anecdotes and experiences as both a social worker and corporate executive, he exemplifies how he has thrived in all his endeavors.

Navigating Challenges with Grace

In his pivotal role as the head of HR and Administration, Ramachandran confronted one of the most daunting employment crises in recent history during the pandemic of 2020. With over three decades of experience, he played an instrumental role in addressing the significant challenges posed by manpower shortages. Under his guidance, the team at Troikaa Pharmaceuticals Ltd. implemented a three-step strategy that garnered widespread recognition, not only from the management but also as a featured case study in various webinars and print media.

“To tackle the issue, we developed a sustainable strategy centered on employee well-being,” Ramachandran explains with pride. This approach focused on three key areas: (a) ensuring workplace safety through rigorous sanitization and proactive measures to protect affected employees, (b) promoting individual health with palliative care advisories and immunity boosters, and (c) providing counseling services to support emotional well-being. Extensive support, guidance and contribution of Management for these activities were noteworthy.

Known for his unwavering determination, Ramachandran embodies a resilient spirit. He attributes his success to a combination of persistence and humility, though he acknowledges that these strengths can also lead to challenges, such as overstretching himself and becoming detached from his surroundings.

A passionate advocate for individual potential, Ramachandran believes that everyone has the capacity to contribute to society in meaningful ways. This conviction has inspired him to take on various leadership roles, including the presidency of the Federation of Gujarat Malayalee Association (FEGMA), Ahmedabad Kerala Samajam (AKS), Convener-Education Committee of the Shree Narayana Cultural Mission School, and a position on the Managing Committee of the Ahmedabad South Indian Association Education Trust, among others. His involvement extends to several other committees and boards, including the Nirma Institute of Management, GCCI, and Vibrant Gujarat.

Despite his numerous responsibilities, Ramachandran remains grounded and reflective about his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a respected leader. Managing a diverse team of over three hundred highly qualified professionals posed its own challenges, yet he navigated this landscape with remarkable ease and insight. “My most humbling accolade is the gratitude I have received for the support infrastructure established during the COVID pandemic, both within my organization and in the social institutions I am associated with,” he articulates.

With his wealth of experience, Ramachandran stands as an inspiring figure for those aspiring to follow in his footsteps. He emphasizes the importance of earning one’s desires through hard work, stating, “Deserve before you desire,” as a reminder that success does not come easily. His two guiding principles for lasting achievement are persistence and dedication.

Ramachandran remains a lifelong learner, continuously drawing lessons from the challenges he has faced throughout his journey.. He recognizes that life will invariably present unexpected obstacles, but adapting to change and embracing new circumstances is essential for survival. “Always be grateful and value what you have, especially the people and opportunities in your life! You never know what will happen next,” he concludes, leaving a lasting message of perseverance and gratitude.

From Aspiration to Achievement

While working in Baroda at the beginning of the 1980s, Ramachandran went on vacation with three friends. They took a train to the busy metropolis of Mumbai during this trip. He went to the famous Gateway of India just like any other visitor. He and his friends were intrigued by the luxurious Taj Hotel, which was located across from this significant building, but they were not invited. These people, who did not appear to be guests, tried to enter the large hotel but were quickly led out by the sentries stationed at the gate. He had no regrets, and time passed.

Despite this initial rejection, Ramachandran held no regrets, and life continued to unfold. Years later, he found himself returning to the Taj Hotel, not as a mere tourist but as a distinguished guest. As a business executive on official duty, he had the privilege of using the opulent Presidential Suite. This turn of events seemed coincidental, yet it served as a testament to the rewarding nature of determination and hard work.

Ramachandran embodies the belief that “no effort is ever wasted if pursued with wisdom.” His inspiring journey illustrates that success is not merely about achieving accolades, but about striving for significance. “Focus on making a difference, and success will follow,” he often advises.

A self-made man and a veteran in his professional field, Ramachandran is also a passionate mentor and philanthropist. His life serves as an inspiring example for future generations, encouraging them to emulate his philosophy of perseverance and purpose.

Balancing a rich professional and personal life with impeccable time management, Ramachandran excels in every sphere—be it work, social commitments, or family. His family mirrors his drive for excellence: his wife is a seasoned banking professional; his daughter and son-in-law, both management graduates from Nirma and XLRI, thrive in an MNC in Bangkok; while his son, after completing a 5-year integrated law degree in Bangalore, is now pursuing a Master’s in Law at the University of Edinburgh.

The post Dr. KM Ramachandran: From a Village Boy to a Corporate Leader and a Social Reformer appeared first on Insights Success.

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