

PGPEX-VLM in Manufacturing Management Isi at Indian Institute of Management Calcutta


Kolkata, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Manufacturing Management (ISI) at Indian Institute of Management Calcutta Kolkata?
This Visionary Leadership in Manufacturing (VLM) program at IIM Calcutta, in collaboration with IIT Kanpur and IIT Madras, focuses on cultivating future leaders for India''''s burgeoning manufacturing sector. Designed to bridge the gap between technological innovation and managerial acumen, it prepares executives to drive operational excellence and strategic growth in a competitive industrial landscape, addressing the critical need for advanced manufacturing expertise, aligning with national initiatives like Make in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for experienced graduate engineers with 4.5 to 10.5 years of work experience in manufacturing or operations, seeking to elevate into strategic leadership roles. It caters to mid-career professionals aiming to acquire a holistic understanding of manufacturing processes, technology management, and business strategy. Career changers with a strong engineering background looking to transition into advanced manufacturing leadership will also find significant value.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect accelerated career progression into roles like Head of Operations, Plant Manager, Supply Chain Director, or Manufacturing Strategy Consultant within leading Indian and multinational companies. While salary ranges vary widely, significant increments (e.g., 30-80% post-program) are common for PGPEX graduates, with experienced professionals commanding competitive packages in the range of INR 25-50 lakhs annually. The program enhances capabilities crucial for driving innovation and efficiency in India’s manufacturing ecosystem.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Business Fundamentals- (Module 1 (IIM Calcutta))
Actively engage in core management subjects like Managerial Economics, Finance, and Marketing to understand the business context of manufacturing. Focus on case study analysis to develop decision-making skills relevant to operational scenarios.
Tools & Resources
Harvard Business Review cases, Financial news analysis, Discussions with peers
Career Connection
Essential for holistic management roles, enabling executives to link operational decisions with financial outcomes and market strategies, crucial for senior leadership.
Master Data-Driven Decision Making- (Module 1 (IIM Calcutta))
Develop proficiency in Business Statistics and Management Information Systems. Prioritize understanding data analysis techniques and their application to manufacturing challenges like quality control and forecasting.
Tools & Resources
Excel, Basic Python for data analysis (e.g., Pandas), Simulation software, Exploring industry reports on data analytics in manufacturing
Career Connection
Critical for modern manufacturing leaders who need to interpret complex data, optimize processes, and implement data-backed strategies for efficiency and competitive advantage.
Cultivate Effective Communication and Leadership- (Module 1 (IIM Calcutta))
Actively participate in group projects, presentations, and communication workshops. Seek feedback on leadership style and strive to improve cross-functional communication, vital for managing diverse teams in manufacturing.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters-like groups, Peer feedback sessions, Leadership assessment tools, Business communication guides
Career Connection
Strong communication and leadership are indispensable for driving change, motivating teams, and negotiating with stakeholders in complex manufacturing environments, facilitating career growth into senior managerial roles.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Core Manufacturing Principles- (Module 2 (IIT Kanpur))
Dedicate significant effort to subjects like Total Quality Management, Production Planning & Control, and Manufacturing Process & Technology. Aim to understand both theoretical frameworks and practical applications through simulations and case studies.
Tools & Resources
Industry journals (e.g., Journal of Manufacturing Systems), Specialized software for PPC/TQM, Company visits (virtual or physical) if available
Career Connection
This expertise forms the backbone of any manufacturing leadership role, ensuring efficient, high-quality production and robust operational planning for Indian industries.
Optimize Supply Chain and Logistics- (Module 2 (IIT Kanpur))
Focus on integrating knowledge from Supply Chain Management and Logistics Management to identify bottlenecks and efficiency opportunities. Explore real-world case studies of supply chain disruptions and resilience strategies in India.
Tools & Resources
Supply chain simulation games, Industry reports on Indian logistics infrastructure, Discussions with supply chain professionals
Career Connection
Essential for managing complex global and local supply networks, a key differentiator for companies operating in India, and opens avenues in supply chain leadership roles.
Engage in Practical Research and Problem Solving- (Module 2 (IIT Kanpur))
Approach the Research Methodology module with a keen interest in identifying and solving real-world manufacturing problems. Seek opportunities to apply learned methodologies to simulated or actual industry challenges.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, Statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS), Mentorship from faculty on research projects
Career Connection
Develops analytical and problem-solving skills highly valued in manufacturing, preparing for strategic roles where evidence-based decision-making is critical for improving operations and innovation.
Advanced Stage
Embrace Digital Transformation and Industry 4.0- (Module 3 (IIT Madras))
Immerse in Advanced Manufacturing Systems, Digital Manufacturing, and Automation & Robotics. Understand how technologies like IoT, AI, and additive manufacturing are reshaping the Indian industrial landscape.
Tools & Resources
Industry conferences on Industry 4.0, Online courses on AI/IoT applications in manufacturing, Visits to smart factories
Career Connection
Positions graduates as forward-thinking leaders capable of implementing cutting-edge technologies, driving efficiency, and ensuring competitive advantage in India''''s rapidly evolving manufacturing sector.
Master Lean and Project Management Methodologies- (Module 3 (IIT Madras))
Deepen understanding of Lean Manufacturing principles and Project Management techniques. Focus on their practical application in optimizing processes, reducing waste, and delivering projects efficiently within Indian manufacturing setups.
Tools & Resources
Lean Six Sigma certifications, Project management software (e.g., MS Project), Case studies of successful lean implementations in Indian companies
Career Connection
Highly sought-after skills for roles in process improvement, operational excellence, and new product introduction, enabling significant contributions to productivity and cost reduction.
Excel in the Industry Project/Thesis- (Module 3 (IIT Madras), International Immersion, and Plant Visits)
Treat the capstone project as a real-world consulting assignment. Apply all acquired knowledge to a live industry problem, demonstrating leadership, analytical rigor, and practical problem-solving.
Tools & Resources
Regular consultations with faculty and industry mentors, Access to company data (under NDA), Project management tools
Career Connection
This project is a crucial differentiator for placements, showcasing ability to deliver tangible results, and often leads directly to job offers or significant internal promotions within the manufacturing domain.



