Bhubaneswar 22.12.25 (A.D.N) The XIMB hosted an insightful leadership session by Mr. D. Shivakumar, renowned business leader Operating Partner, Advent International, an esteemed member of the Board of Governors of Xavier Institute of Management University and author of The CEO Mindset, focusing on developing leadership habits and mental models essential for success in today’s dynamic business environment.
The session was graced by Dr. Fr. K. S. Casimir, S.J., Vice Chancellor of XIM University, Dr. Fr. Arokiyadass V, S.J., Chief Finance Officer, Fr. S. Antony Raj, S.J., Registrar-Secretary, and Prof. Biswa Swarup Misra, Academic Dean, XIM Bhubaneswar whose presence highlighted the institution’s commitment to leadership and academic excellence.
The session was inaugurated by Prof. Arun Kumar Paul, who felicitated the speaker and set the context. Mr. D. Shivakumar highlighted why the CEO mindset matters, stressing that leadership is driven by clarity of thought, ownership, and long-term vision rather than designation. He introduced key concepts from The CEO Mindset, including the CHARLIE framework and the PERT model, emphasising holistic thinking, ethical execution, prioritisation, reflection, time management, and personal discipline as essential leadership habits. He also underscored the importance of effective communication, highlighting clarity, consistency, and context as tools for influence.
Engaging directly with students, Mr. D. Shivakumar asked who among them aspired to become entrepreneurs, encouraging self-awareness about their entrepreneurial goals and motivations. He also shared practical advice on campus life, stressing that students should select clubs thoughtfully, choosing roles that align with their interests and capacity, as being deeply involved in fewer activities is more productive than superficial participation in many.
He concluded by offering insights into his upcoming books and future thought leadership initiatives. The session ended with an interactive Q&A, followed by a book-signing interaction with faculty and students. Prof. Arun Kumar Paul delivered the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to Mr. D. Shivakumar, the esteemed dignitaries, the faculty, and the students for making the session enriching and impactful.
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