Pratik's MBA Journey

Pratik started working exclusively with MBA in March 2020 and has since been a vital member of our ever-growing team. MBA quickly realised the value that Pratik brought to the company which is why after a year as Team Leader Pratik was promoted to Team Manager overseeing a team of 24 that is continuing to grow. 

MBA have partnered with IMS People based out of Ahmedabad in India, IMS manage the MBA Offshore Recruitment Team - collaborating with our team based onshore in the UK & Europe.

We asked Pratik some questions about his experience working with MBA...

Can you describe your MBA journey?

I started working with MBA as a Team Leader overseeing 3 employees in March 2020. After a year I was promoted to Team Manager and now have a team of 24 people working for MBA India. I have been able to help two of these team members progress their careers to the next level as a team lead, which has been very rewarding.

When I chose to work with MBA, it was a bit of a risk as I left all other clients to dedicate all my time solely to this company, in doing so I realised this was not a risk but an opportunity to develop my skillsets, specifically team management, client relationship management, reporting, hiring, and training new employees. I have been able to learn more about the recruitment industry and have the chance to work with motivated individuals. Rather than hold a client/supplier relationship, MBA work as true partners.

Overall, it has been an exciting and rewarding journey that I look forward to continuing moving forward!

How do you manage to work with a company in a different time zone?

I am always flexible! I either start my shift early or end later to align more with UK working hours. For now, my team matches the UK hours, starting in the late afternoon.

What was your training process like?

I was interviewed by Emma (COO) whilst already managing a team in India, although I had experience, I felt there was some polishing that was needed to manage the team. That is where I look up to Adam Bevan, Head of Client Solutions at MBA, to ask for his suggestions for improvement. Adam has helped me so much and always provides me with the right guidance and training needed.

Throughout the whole process, Adam was always there to help answer any questions or issues that I have. I also get great training and support from some other members of the MBA team, Nathan, Harry, Paul, and Liam. 

Can you describe your job role?

My main responsibility is to manage the MBA India team. I assist in the development of the team, take part in building recruitment strategies, mechanics, relationship building, and candidate/client management.

I make sure every offshore recruiter has enough work and for the UK team, I facilitate a successful delivery process. On top of that, I also implement new processes, make reports, and attend all calls to maintain healthy work relationships between the UK and India teams.

What does your typical day as a Team Manager look like?

On my average work day, I start by checking emails to get organised for the day. Then, I look over my to-do list and get started on the work that has my top priority. I also have daily catch-ups with the UK consultants and leaders in the morning and afternoon to make sure the quality is in place, and what to do differently for new work or any briefings. On top of that, I maintain reports to keep numbers on track. If I am left with any time, I would check the process the team is following and try to find areas where we can improve. 

What is the best part of your job?

The best part of this job is that I enjoy the culture we have created. MBA makes us feel like an important part of the team, rather than a client. I have never managed a team this big and I enjoy the responsibility I have been given along with the skills I am able to develop in the job. 

Also, the brand name is great internally, MBA are known as a business our people want to work with.

What is the worst part of your job?

I can't say there is a 'worst part' of my job, I love what I am doing. 

If I had to choose one thing it's when the team can't achieve the expected numbers, there is always a reason but I like to see continuous improvement.

What is the company and team culture like?

MBA is unbelievably consistent in making us feel like we are a part of their own family. We are together day in and day out with positive-minded, motivated, and inspiring people which I really enjoy. Everyone who joins MBA UK or MBA India team is a part of the family. 

Also, I know Adam is there for any problem I have, and everyone in my team feels the same with their respective UK team member that they are working with, it's a common feeling among the team here. 

What are some things that you enjoy doing outside of work?

Apart from work I love to run in the morning to lead me to a better night's sleep. Also, I play cricket every weekend.  

Lastly, I would like to say a big thank you for Matt and Adam for believing in me!