From Spreadsheets to Strategy: Why I Chose ISB’s PGP MAX

After spending more than a decade in core finance roles, I realised that technical expertise alone wasn’t going to get me where I wanted to be.

As the Director of Financial Planning and Analysis at Hitachi Digital Services, I have covered a wide spectrum, from corporate finance to statutory reporting and business finance partnering. Over time, I also earned my CPA and CMA (US), which strengthened my technical grounding and sharpened my analytical mindset.

But somewhere along the way, a new thought started to take root.

As I worked closely with senior leaders across global markets, I noticed how often decisions were shaped not just by numbers but by larger forces: Market dynamics, shifting geopolitical contexts, digital disruptions, and organisational transformation. 

I knew I needed to look beyond the spreadsheets and build a more strategic lens. It was time to step back, recalibrate, and invest in myself.

That’s when ISB entered the picture.

Discovering PGP MAX

I spent considerable time exploring executive education programs both in India and abroad. What stood out about ISB’s PGP MAX was the depth of its curriculum, the strength of its faculty, and the richness of its cohort. 

Every alumnus I spoke to shared honest reflections about how the program had reshaped their thinking. Many spoke about peer learning as the most valuable aspect of the journey. That, to me, was an insight I didn’t want to ignore.

I began my PGP MAX journey in July with Term 1, which focused on Financial Statements and Decision Making under Uncertainty. Despite my background in finance, I have been genuinely surprised by how much I am learning. 

The research-backed approach of ISB faculty has given me new tools to think critically and make decisions in complex situations. The teaching methods are rigorous but never dry, and I find myself actively looking forward to each session.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

What truly stood out is how much learning happens outside the classroom.

The diversity of the cohort is one of the biggest strengths of this program. In just a few weeks, I have had conversations with seasoned professionals from sectors I had never worked in, and each chat has opened up new perspectives. 

The case discussions, group assignments, and casual coffee breaks have quickly turned into real moments of reflection and growth. I’ve already formed close bonds with a few peers, and they’ve become my sounding board for tough decisions I face at work.

A Renewed Sense of Purpose

The energy on campus has given me something I didn’t realise I had been missing: a renewed sense of purpose.

And it’s not just inspiration. It’s also confidence. Even within the first month, I find myself approaching work with fresh eyes. I’m more deliberate, more strategic, and more collaborative in how I solve problems. While I came here to upskill, I now feel I’ve also expanded my sense of leadership and self.

If you're considering PGP MAX, my biggest advice is this: Go beyond the books. The real power of this program lies in its experiential learning design, ISB’s research depth, and most importantly, your peers. 

Be curious. Engage with your peers. The best lessons won’t always come from the lectures. They’ll come from the stories you hear over lunch, the debates during projects, and the honest feedback you receive when you're least expecting it.

Synopsis:

Mahendra Nabaria, Director of Financial Planning and Analysis at Hitachi Digital Services, joined ISB’s PGP MAX program in July 2025 to gain a broader, more strategic lens on leadership. With a career built on financial expertise, Mahendra was drawn to ISB’s research-driven curriculum, world-class faculty, and peer learning opportunities. 

A month into the program, he reflects on the early impact of his journey, highlighting renewed confidence, meaningful connections, and a fresh approach to solving business challenges.