Balaji Bharath Kumar Subbiah

Alumnus of the Master's program in International Management

Today: Buyer in the Automotive division at Skoda Auto Global Headquarters (Volkswagen Group) in Mlada Boleslav
"I've also learned that sometimes it's the little things that make us grow and that I always have to be willing to learn something new in order to improve."

Today we would like to introduce our alumnus Balaji Bharath Kumar Subbiah. Balaji Bharath Kumar Subbiah studied the International Management degree program at IHI Zittau in a double degree with the Technical University of Liberec.

Dear Balaji Bharath Kumar Subbiah, tell us about yourself! Where are you from and how did you come to Zittau?

"I'm originally from India and I love traveling to new countries and getting to know other cultures. Traveling to new places is my way of exploring the world and getting inspired. I often record my experiences in my vlog. I was also very interested in the subject of economics. I love reading business books, but I also enjoy reading books about topics such as self-realization. It is precisely this mixture that inspires me time and time again.

The opportunity to learn about the internationalization of companies in the International Management degree program at IHI Zittau and to be able to experience a double degree combined with a stay at the Technical University of Liberec really excited me."

What did you focus on during your studies?

"I dealt intensively with the opportunities and challenges of expanding companies into European markets. In my final thesis, I focused on the conception of market entry strategies for Indian companies, with which they can enter the European market."

And what do you do today?

"Today I work as a buyer in the Automotive division at Skoda Auto Global Headquarters (Volkswagen Group) in Mlada Boleslav, Czech Republic. My responsibilities lie in Exterior Vehicle Development. I coordinate different departments, solve problems with suppliers and conduct price negotiations. I think it's a really nice and challenging job."

Which of your qualities help you in your day-to-day work?

"My colleagues say that I am extremely committed and always pursue my goals with passion. I would say that's true. When I decide to do something, I give it my all. I work with dedication and always try to achieve the best and I also take a bit of pride in working hard and always trying to improve. My sense of responsibility certainly helps too. I really like to take responsibility for my tasks and act conscientiously."

Are there any qualities that you don't like about yourself and if so, would you tell us what they are?

"Sometimes I tend to be too much of a perfectionist. I'm working on letting things go and not getting too caught up in the details. It's not always easy, but I keep at it and it's slowly getting a little bit better."

What skills did you pick up from your time at university that are still with you today?

"I learned a lot about teamwork during my studies. That's hugely important in working life. But patience and consistency are also attributes that I always find important in my studies and working life. I also learned that sometimes it's the little things that make us grow and that I always have to be willing to learn something new in order to improve."

And if you could give advice to current students, what would it be?

"If I could give any advice to other students, it would be this: Focus on learning every day! Slow progress is better than no progress at all. If you are unsure, talk to friends or professors to get a clear picture of certain topics. The journey is just as important as the destination - enjoy it!"

Thank you for the great conversation and all the best for your future!

Contact: LinkedIN: https: //www.linkedin.com/in/balajibharathkumars/