Want to build a career that stands out? Learn from Pranay!

Filter Results

Topics

Audience

Industry

Year

How can creativity and passion shape a remarkable career?

14 Feb 2025
- admin
Pranay Mishra’s journey is an example of passion, creativity, and growth. A proud alumnus of the SOIL Institute of Management, he graduated from the PGPM HR batch of 2018, known as the Pathfinders. It all started when Pranay discovered the institute during an extensive online search and was drawn to SOIL’s emphasis on value-based learning. SOIL’s sustainability, compassion, ethics, and mindfulness values resonated strongly with Pranay. These principles aligned seamlessly with his own outlook on work and life. The decision to join SOIL proved to be a turning point in his career and personal growth.

The one-year PGPM program at SOIL offered a transformative experience. The curriculum was thoughtfully crafted to focus on industry-relevant skills while encouraging creative problem-solving. Pranay appreciated the program’s balance, which avoided overwhelming students with academic pressure. Instead, it fostered an environment where innovation and critical thinking thrived.

A particularly memorable experience for Pranay was a project requiring a book synopsis. While most opted for conventional reports, he chose to write a poem.

I remember being given a project where I had to write a synopsis of a book. I wrote a poem instead. Everyone was surprised, but I was thrilled.

This creative freedom is what makes SOIL special.

This creative approach surprised his peers and professors alike, showcasing his creative flair. This moment underscored the importance of thinking differently, a lesson he has carried into his HR career. Pranay believes that creativity is a critical asset in HR, where repetitive processes can sometimes lead to disengagement. By introducing innovative approaches, he keeps his work fresh and impactful.

SOIL’s emphasis on blending creativity with analytics, data, and technology prepared Pranay for the complexities of the corporate world.

Creativity helps bring fresh energy to HR practices. SOIL encourages you to use the right side of your brain, combining creativity with analytics, data, and tech. This mix helps you create the best solutions in your work.

He realized that the right combination of these elements could lead to powerful solutions. This mindset has been instrumental in his ability to design and implement initiatives that add value to his organization and team.

Pranay’s time at SOIL wasn’t limited to academics. The vibrant campus life played a significant role in shaping his personality and leadership skills. From participating in cultural events to attending seminars, every experience contributed to his holistic development. SOIL, he fondly recalls, was a place where there was never a dull moment. These experiences not only enriched his learning but also helped him build lasting relationships and robust networks with peers and worldclass faculty.

Pranay’s professional path started at Mahindra and Mahindra’s Mumbai office, where he took on the role of Business HR for the plant function.

Founded in 1945, Mahindra and Mahindra is a leading Indian automobile manufacturer based in Mumbai. It ranks among India’s largest vehicle manufacturers by production, and its subsidiary, Mahindra Tractors, holds the title of the world’s largest tractor manufacturer by volume. In 2018, Fortune India 500 ranked it 17th among the top companies in India.

Over two and a half years, he immersed himself in the role, gaining foundational experience and honing his skills. His hard work and dedication soon earned him a new opportunity which was a Zonal HR position for Mahindra Trucks and Buses. This transition proved transformative. The challenges of this role broadened his perspective and deepened his understanding of HR. It was here that Pranay began to truly explore the depth of his capabilities, learning from diverse teams and situations.

In 2023, Pranay’s journey took another exciting turn. He joined Mahindra’s Farm Equipment Division, famously known as Mahindra Tractors. This role demanded extensive travel and hands-on involvement with field teams, customers, and dealers. Pranay thrived on the dynamic nature of the job, focusing on identifying challenges and creating impactful solutions. His ability to adapt and innovate stood out, enabling him to design interventions that addressed people-centric challenges effectively. The work was demanding yet deeply fulfilling, blending strategic thinking with ground-level execution.

As an HR Manager today, Pranay applies the lessons he learned at SOIL in every aspect of his work. Whether it’s collaborating with teams, engaging with stakeholders, or driving impactful changes, his approach reflects a balance of creativity, data-driven insights, and value-based decision-making. He is deeply committed to understanding the needs of his team and organization, consistently striving to create a positive impact.

Pranay’s story exemplifies the power of perseverance, adaptability, and a commitment to lifelong learning. From his foundational years at SOIL to his diverse roles at Mahindra, he has continually pushed boundaries and embraced challenges. His journey is a source of inspiration for aspiring HR professionals and young leaders.

Register TO STUDY AT SOIL

Fill out a simple form and we will reach your shortly.

UTM Source*

For Pranay, the journey is ongoing. He welcomes every new challenge as an opportunity to grow and innovate. His belief in the importance of creativity, combined with his analytical mindset and strong values, positions him as a forward-thinking leader in HR. Pranay’s story serves as a reminder that success lies in balancing passion with purpose, and creativity with strategy. As he continues to shape the future of HR, his journey inspires others to pursue their own paths with determination and confidence.

Understand Pranay Mishra’s HR journey from SOIL to Mahindra and Mahindra