“My day revolves around managing sales and operations”

Stepping into the corporate world while still pursuing an MBA is no small feat, but for Saran Reddy, a student of Apeejay School of Management (Batch 2024–26), it became a reality through determination and smart preparation. Currently placed at Lots Wholesale as a Category Manager, Saran’s journey reflects how the right blend of academic learning and real-world exposure can shape a successful career path.

Read edited excerpts:

What does a typical day at work look like for you?
My day revolves around managing sales and operations. I closely monitor stock availability and coordinate with suppliers or vendors in case of shortages. I also visit markets to understand trends and consumer behaviour. These visits have taught me how suppliers manage different product categories and respond to demand.

How did you feel when you received your placement offer?
It was a very proud and emotional moment. Coming from South India to study in North India and securing my first campus placement made me feel truly accomplished.

Can you walk us through your placement process?
There were four rounds: an introduction round, an aptitude test, a departmental round (FMCG and non-FMCG), and a final interview with HR and the Managing Director. The questions were mostly about the company and my background. Interestingly, I was also asked about South Indian dishes and ingredients, which connected well with my current role.

Did any internship or project help you during the placement process?
Yes, my internship at Chronicle Club was very helpful. I worked in sales and digital marketing, where I exceeded my target of ₹18,000 by achieving ₹20,000. I also completed a live project with Airway Media, where I applied similar skills. These experiences built my confidence and practical understanding.

Tell us about a project you are currently working on.
I am working on a project to develop a South Indian cuisine outlet. This involves researching dishes from different South Indian states and curating a comprehensive menu. It has been a great learning experience.

What key skills have you developed so far?
I’ve learned to manage operations, analyse data using Excel, and handle inventory efficiently. Coordinating with vendors and understanding supply chains has also been crucial.

What advice would you give to your juniors preparing for placements?
Research is everything. Before any interview, understand the company deeply, what they do, their products, and their market. Preparation builds confidence, and as they say, the first impression truly matters.