“When I joined PGDM, I was clear that I wanted to work with data and numbers”

In today’s data-driven business world, professionals who can transform numbers into meaningful insight are in high demand. One such rising talent is Rishab Kumar Jha, an alumnus of Apeejay School of Management (ASM), Batch 2025. With dual specialisations in Finance and Business Analytics, Rishab has successfully kick-started his career at Bharat Fincare, where he now works as a Data Analyst. His journey from campus placement to a corporate role reflects determination, skill-building, and strong mentorship from ASM faculty.

Read edited excerpts:

Rishab, tell us about your current role at Bharat Fincare. How did the shift to Data Analytics happen?

Initially, I joined as a Credit Manager in June. My job involved collecting and verifying documents and analysing whether customers were creditworthy for loans. Over time, my seniors noticed that I was strong with numbers and analytical tasks. So, instead of a promotion, I was transferred to the Data Analyst role — which perfectly aligns with my passion.

Now I handle customer-related datasets — studying repayment behaviour, suggesting ways to improve customer satisfaction, and even comparing our products with competitors. The research component makes the role even more exciting!

Did you always aspire to work in a data-centric role?

Absolutely, yes. When I joined PGDM, I was clear that I wanted to work with data and numbers. So getting the analyst role genuinely made me happy and satisfied with where I am today.

What was the campus placement experience like for you?

Honestly, it was a stressful phase as the placement season was nearing its end and I hadn’t been placed yet. But my mentors motivated me continuously. The company came to our campus for the first round which included an aptitude test and a panel interview. For the second round, we visited their office and interacted directly with AVP and Founders. Their guidance helped me understand my career trajectory in analytics. Getting selected was a proud moment!

Which subjects and tools from ASM helped you crack the interviews?

Concepts like creditworthiness, as well as correlation and regression, were extremely helpful. Tool-wise, I frequently use what ASM taught us, like excel (advanced analytics), python, power BI and  financial/Data Modelling.

Even our research project in the final semester helped me apply regression and other statistical tools — something I now use daily.