George Manoj is a BITS Pilani (Dubai, ‘18) graduate in BE Mechanical Engineering. Driven by a relentless curiosity to solve complex problems, George Manoj has carved a successful path in operations management. George completed his M.Sc. in Operations Management from Heriot-Watt University, he thrives on tackling challenges across diverse industries. Throughout his career, George has consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to identify optimal solutions. Whether streamlining supply chains or fostering impeccable customer relationships in healthcare, he has a knack for pinpointing bottlenecks and developing strategic approaches. George's customer-centric approach, honed through experiences with industry leaders like Novartis, Hewlett-Packard, Microsoft, Nissan, Asus, PwC, GE, and ISRO, fosters innovation and drives growth. Now leading operations at Fujifilm Middle East, he embraces daily challenges as opportunities for personal and company-wide development.

How did BITS Pilani shape your devotion towards operations management and inspire you to pursue it after graduation?

BITS Pilani Dubai Campus played a pivotal role in shaping my career path towards operations management. The comprehensive curriculum, which balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, provided a strong foundation in various aspects of management and operations. The emphasis on project-based learning and real-world problem-solving helped me develop critical thinking and analytical skills essential for a career in operations.

As the president of the student council, I had the opportunity to work closely with faculty and administration on various initiatives, which honed my leadership and organizational abilities. This experience was instrumental in cultivating my interest in operations management, as it involved coordinating multiple projects, managing resources, and ensuring the smooth execution of events and activities.

The rigorous academic environment, coupled with the practical experiences and mentorship from esteemed faculty, instilled in me the confidence and competence to pursue and excel in operations management post-graduation. Today, as the MEA Operations Manager at Fujifilm, I can trace many of my professional strengths and values back to my time at BITS Pilani Dubai Campus.

Tell us about what you do at Fujifilm Healthcare. What have you learned from your previous work experiences that have allowed you to evolve and excel as a professional at Fujifilm?

At Fujifilm Healthcare, I serve as the MEA Operations Manager, overseeing the operations for the Middle East and Africa region. My role involves managing the supply chain, ensuring efficient procurement processes, coordinating with various departments to optimize operational efficiency, and implementing strategies to enhance overall productivity. Additionally, I work closely with the sales and marketing teams to align our operational capabilities with market demands, ensuring that we deliver high-quality healthcare solutions to our clients.

My previous work experiences have been instrumental in shaping my career and equipping me with the skills necessary to excel at Fujifilm. At Eagle Industries DWC, working as a Research and Development Engineer in the Sand Car Division, I had the unique opportunity to pioneer the creation of the first-ever 1000HP Sand Cars in the UAE region. This role honed my technical skills, fostered my innovative thinking, and taught me the importance of precision and excellence in engineering.

Subsequently, my tenure at Emerson allowed me to diversify my skill set across various roles. As a Technical Procurement Engineer, I gained insights into effective procurement strategies and supplier relationship management. Transitioning to a Project Management Specialist role, I developed a keen understanding of project lifecycles, risk management, and stakeholder communication. My experience as a Digital Transformation Specialist further broadened my perspective, highlighting the critical role of technology and digital tools in streamlining operations and driving organizational change. Finally, as the MEA Inventory Control Coordinator, I mastered the intricacies of inventory management, demand forecasting, and logistics optimization.

These diverse experiences have collectively enabled me to approach my role at Fujifilm with a well-rounded perspective. They have ingrained in me a strong foundation in technical expertise, strategic thinking, and operational efficiency. By leveraging the knowledge and skills acquired from my previous roles, I have been able to drive continuous improvement initiatives, enhance supply chain operations, and contribute to the overall success of Fujifilm Healthcare in the MEA region.

Could you share a memorable project or research experience you have undertaken at BITS? What values have you learned through this experience and how have these qualities shaped you?

One of the most memorable projects I undertook at BITS Pilani Dubai Campus was my final research project on the Aerodynamics of a Formula 1 Car, which I worked on with my professor, Dr. Shashank Khurana. This project was a culmination of my passion for automotive engineering and the skills I had developed throughout my coursework. The research involved intricate simulations and analyses using advanced CAD CAM tools to optimize the aerodynamics of a Formula 1 car, aiming to enhance its performance and efficiency on the track.

In addition to this, participating in the Formula 1 Tech Challenge and the Formula SAE competition were some of the most formative experiences during my time at BITS. These projects were not only technically challenging but also required a high degree of teamwork, problem-solving, and innovation. Working with a diverse team of peers, each bringing unique strengths to the table, taught me the value of collaboration and effective communication.

Beyond academic projects, my involvement in extracurricular activities, especially as the president of the student council, significantly shaped my personal and professional development. Leading various initiatives and organizing events honed my leadership skills, resilience, and ability to manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously.

Through these experiences, I learned several key values that have profoundly shaped me:

• Teamwork and Collaboration: Successful projects are built on strong team dynamics and collaboration. Working closely with my peers and faculty members taught me the importance of leveraging diverse perspectives and skills to achieve common goals.
• Innovation and Problem-Solving: Engineering projects, especially those involving cutting-edge technology like Formula 1 aerodynamics, require innovative thinking and creative problem-solving. These skills have been crucial in my professional roles, allowing me to approach challenges with a solutions-oriented mindset.
• Leadership and Responsibility: Leading the student council and various project teams instilled in me a sense of responsibility and the ability to guide and inspire others. These leadership qualities have been instrumental in my role as the MEA Operations Manager at Fujifilm.
• Persistence and Resilience: Tackling complex engineering problems and managing diverse activities taught me the value of persistence and resilience. These qualities have enabled me to navigate and overcome professional challenges effectively.

Overall, my time at BITS Pilani Dubai Campus, marked by a blend of rigorous academic projects and enriching extracurricular activities, laid a strong foundation for my career. The values and skills I acquired continue to influence my professional journey, driving me to excel and innovate in my role at Fujifilm.

Can you share a challenging moment or obstacle you faced at the university, and how did you overcome it?

One of the most challenging moments I faced at BITS Pilani Dubai Campus was during my tenure as the president of the student council. We were organizing Jashn - Our large-scale inter-university cultural festival that required meticulous planning, coordination, and resource management. The event was set to bring together participants from various universities, and the expectations were high.

Midway through the planning process, we encountered a significant setback. Our primary sponsor withdrew their support due to unforeseen circumstances, leaving us with a substantial budget shortfall. This obstacle threatened the feasibility of the entire event, and the team was understandably disheartened.

To overcome this challenge, I knew we had to act quickly and strategically. Here’s how we navigated the situation:

• Reassessing the Budget and Priorities: We immediately convened an emergency meeting to reassess our budget and identify non-essential expenses that could be cut or reduced. This exercise helped us get a clear picture of our financial standing and prioritize critical aspects of the event.
• Exploring Alternative Funding Sources: We reached out to new potential sponsors, leveraging our network and presenting a compelling case for supporting the event. We also launched a crowdfunding campaign, engaging the student community and alumni to contribute. This multi-faceted approach helped us secure additional funding, though it required persistence and effective communication.
• Strengthening Team Collaboration: I encouraged the team to stay motivated and focused on our goal. By fostering a collaborative environment, we were able to pool our collective strengths and come up with creative solutions to the financial challenges.
• Transparent Communication: We maintained open and transparent communication with all stakeholders, including participants, vendors, and university administration. This transparency helped build trust and ensured that everyone was on the same page regarding the challenges and our plans to address them.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: We remained flexible and adaptable throughout the process, ready to make quick decisions and adjustments as needed. This mindset allowed us to navigate unexpected hurdles effectively.

Through these efforts, we managed to not only overcome the financial obstacle but also successfully organize a memorable and impactful festival. The experience taught me valuable lessons in crisis management, resourcefulness, and the importance of teamwork and resilience.

This challenging moment at university was a turning point for me, reinforcing my belief in the power of collaboration and innovative problem-solving. It prepared me for future professional challenges, where similar skills and approaches have proven invaluable in navigating complex situations and driving successful outcomes.

Handling multiple responsibilities tends to take a toll on a person. What do you do apart from taxing work to de-stress? Mention any volunteering work undertaken in your leisure time.

Balancing multiple responsibilities can indeed be challenging, and I have found that engaging in various activities outside of work is essential for maintaining my well-being and staying productive. To de-stress, I participate in several hobbies and community activities that provide a healthy balance to my professional life.

One of my favorite ways to unwind is hiking. Exploring the great outdoors and immersing myself in nature helps me clear my mind and rejuvenate my spirit. The physical activity combined with the serenity of natural landscapes is incredibly refreshing and provides a much-needed break from the demands of work.

I am also actively involved in Toastmasters, where I have the opportunity where I have the opportunity to develop my public speaking and leadership skills. This engagement allows me to connect with like-minded individuals, learn from their experiences, and continue growing both personally and professionally.

In addition to these activities, I dedicate a portion of my time to volunteering. I am passionate about giving back to the community and have been involved in various initiatives aimed at supporting underprivileged children. I volunteer with local organizations that focus on providing education and resources to these children, helping them build a better future. This work is incredibly fulfilling and serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy, kindness, and service.

Overall, these activities help me maintain a healthy work-life balance, manage stress effectively, and stay motivated in both my personal and professional endeavors. They provide a sense of fulfillment and contribute to my overall well-being, enabling me to approach my work with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

How has BITS Pilani supported your professional development since graduating, through alumni networks, career services, or continuing education opportunities?

One of the most valuable resources has been the BITS Pilani Alumni Network. The network is incredibly active and well-connected, facilitating professional interactions, mentorship opportunities, and career advancements. Recently, I had the opportunity to hire a recent graduate from the Biomedical program to join my team at Fujifilm. This was made possible through the Alumni Network, which consistently connects us with talented and qualified candidates, fostering a strong sense of community and mutual support among BITSians.

Career services offered by BITS Pilani have also played a crucial role in my professional journey. The guidance and support provided during my job search after graduation were invaluable. From resume building and interview preparation to job fairs and recruitment drives, the career services team ensures that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and succeed in their chosen fields. These efforts were indeed instrumental in both my roles at Eagle Industries and Emerson.

Furthermore, BITS Pilani offers various continuing education opportunities that allow alumni to stay updated with the latest advancements in their respective industries. These include workshops, webinars, and certification programs that cater to the evolving needs of professionals. Engaging in these learning opportunities has enabled me to stay ahead of industry trends, expand my knowledge base, and apply new skills to my work at Fujifilm.

Overall, the continuous support from BITS Pilani through its alumni networks, career services, and continuing education opportunities has been instrumental in my professional growth and success. The sense of belonging to a community that values lifelong learning and mutual support has made a significant difference in my career trajectory.

What advice would you give to current engineering students at BITS Pilani who want to diversify into a different career path after an engineering background? How do you think your engineering background helps you with your current work?

For current engineering students at BITS Pilani who are considering diversifying into a different career path, my advice is to embrace the versatility and foundational strength that an engineering background provides. Engineering equips you with critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and a systematic approach to tackling challenges—skills that are highly transferable and valuable in virtually any field.

Leverage Your Analytical Skills: Engineering teaches you how to break down complex problems and find effective solutions. This analytical mindset is beneficial in various careers, from finance and consulting to management and entrepreneurship. Don't underestimate the power of your technical training in providing a unique perspective in non-engineering roles.

Embrace Lifelong Learning: Diversifying into a different career path may require additional knowledge and skills. Be proactive in seeking out learning opportunities, whether through formal education, online courses, or hands-on experience. The willingness to continuously learn and adapt is key to successfully transitioning to a new field.

Network and Seek Mentors: Connect with professionals who have made similar transitions and seek their advice. The BITS Pilani Alumni Network is a valuable resource for finding mentors who can provide guidance, share their experiences, and open doors to new opportunities.

Highlight Transferable Skills: When exploring new career paths, emphasize the transferable skills you have gained through your engineering education and experiences. Communication, project management, teamwork, and technical expertise are highly valued across various industries. Make sure to showcase these strengths in your resume and during interviews.

Be Open to Entry-Level Positions: Sometimes, diversifying into a new career may mean starting at an entry-level position. Be open to this possibility and view it as an opportunity to learn and grow in your new field. Your engineering background will likely allow you to progress quickly once you gain relevant experience.

As for how my engineering background helps with my current work at Fujifilm, it has been invaluable in several ways:

Structured Problem-Solving: Engineering has trained me to approach problems methodically and develop effective solutions. This skill is crucial in operations management, where identifying and resolving issues efficiently is essential for maintaining smooth operations.

Technical Proficiency: My engineering education has provided me with a solid technical foundation, enabling me to understand and work effectively with complex systems and technologies. This proficiency is particularly beneficial in a healthcare company like Fujifilm, where technical knowledge is crucial.

Project Management: The experience gained from managing engineering projects has equipped me with strong project management skills. I can plan, execute, and oversee projects effectively, ensuring that objectives are met on time and within budget.

Innovative Thinking: Engineering fosters innovation and creativity. I bring this innovative mindset to my role at Fujifilm, constantly seeking ways to improve processes, enhance efficiency, and drive the company forward.

In conclusion, an engineering background is a powerful asset that can open doors to diverse career paths. By leveraging your skills, staying open to learning, and seeking guidance from mentors, you can successfully transition into new fields and achieve your career goals.