Ashish Mahadeo Thakre

MBA 2024, India

Ashish Thakre

Ashish is a seasoned sales expert with over 21 years of experience in technical sales and strategic partnerships. As Branch Head at Bry-Air (Asia) Pvt Ltd, he has achieved remarkable sales growth, enhancing profitability by 40% at the Asia level. His career includes significant roles at Rathi Turboflex and KPT Industries Ltd, where he implemented effective CRM systems and drove substantial revenue increases.

A mechanical engineer by degree, he is also certified in project management and leadership, combining technical acumen with exceptional business insight to deliver sustainable solutions across global markets.

Top achievements

  1. Revenue growth: At Bry-Air (Asia) Pvt Ltd, I achieved a remarkable 56% increase in branch sales while enhancing profitability by 40% within the Asia region, significantly elevating the company’s profile by 35% in the target segment.
  2. Customer retention and revenue generation: While at Rathi Turboflex Pvt Ltd, I implemented a CRM structure that led to 100% customer retention and a 67% increase in revenue, showcasing my ability to drive business growth through effective customer relationship management.
  3. Market expansion and product development: During my tenure at KPT Industries Ltd, I consistently achieved annual sales targets of 121% and developed new products that contributed to a 36% increase in market share, demonstrating my strategic market insight and innovative capabilities domestically, as well as globally.

What attracted you to the MBA programme at Kent Business School and why?

Its global recognition, being in the top 1% of universities who has triple accreditation. Plus, the teaching staff, who come from all the walks of life and are either successful entrepreneurs or highly successful in their own profession.

What are your motivations for undertaking an MBA

My motivation for pursuing an MBA stems from a deep commitment to leadership and continuous growth. Over the past two decades, I have built a solid foundation in various roles, from Sales Engineer to Branch Manager, where I led teams and drove substantial business results. I believe that effective leadership combines knowledge, strategic thinking, and strong communication skills – elements that an MBA can help me refine further.

What are your future aspirations?

After completing my MBA, I aim to work as a Business Head or Director in MNC and hope that undertaking the MBA will provide me the opportunity to leverage these skills and global exposure. I am looking to develop global multi-division strategies that generate growth and innovation – specifically with international market expansion or new product penetration. In the long run, post-MBA, I want to spearhead projects that not pertinently increase profits but also leverage sustainable business practices. I also want to continue growing my global network and leadership skills, preparing myself for aiding bigger organisational changes in business — and someday exploring entrepreneurial ventures.

What is your best advice for those wanting to progress in business?

I recommend for anyone who is looking to go into management or long term leadership make learning and adaptability your core strengths. With the pace of change in today’s world, it is important to be able to adapt quickly as new technologies and trends emerge. You continue to further hone your craft, but remember — there is always more: learn deeper and gain wider experience through work, mentorship or ongoing training.

Also as important: to build true relationships. No one accomplishes success without the help of others. It is not simply business cards trading; it means making powerful relationships with people who can help you think, enlightening your perspectives and setting you on a course of long term success. These relationships are often that little extra which turns a good decision into an awesome one.

Lastly, practice resilience and patience. Progress is not linear. Many things will get in the way. There will be failures but keep going and learning and adjusting your approach to achieve success. You should stay focused on your targets, yet not be so rigid to change and must always have the humbleness of learning from experiences. The way to succeed in business is a balance between strategy and perseverance.

“The matrix of leadership is not found, it is earned through utmost courage and sacrifices. Success demand relentless learning, adaptability, and a heart brave enough to embrace new challenges.”