A Director’s Reflection on Navigating Challenges and Embracing Opportunities

Mayank Agarwal is a Director with Alvarez & Marsal’s India Transaction Advisory Group in Mumbai. He earned a bachelor’s degree in commerce from Mithibai College.

In this Q&A, Mayank reflects on challenges and skills developed during his tenure, emphasizes the importance of trust in relationships, offers insights for professionals considering a return and shares strategies for work-life balance. He also describes Mumbai's vibrant office culture of professionalism and mutual respect.

What prompted your return to the firm in February 2024, and how did these factors shape your decision to continue your consulting career?

After spending eight years with A&M, I embarked on a journey to explore new opportunities, seeking to broaden my skill set and gain diverse experiences. However, as I transitioned from Bengaluru to Mumbai, my choice to rejoin A&M in February 2024 was well thought through and natural.

Reflecting on my initial years at A&M, I was drawn back by the same fundamental factors that initially attracted me to the firm. The sense of pride instilled in me by the strong team culture, characterized by determination, diversity and camaraderie, remained ever-present in my mind. This cohesive team environment fostered personal and professional growth, making the journey enjoyable.

Having rejoined A&M, I bring my experiences and insights gained over the past two years, eager to contribute to the firm's growth and success. I am excited to once again be part of a team committed to delivering impactful solutions for our clients, and I look forward to witnessing the unfolding of the next phase of my journey with the firm.

As one of the early hires in the India office, what unique challenges and opportunities did you encounter as part of the firm's growing presence in India?

As one of the early hires in the India office, I encountered a blend of unique challenges and exciting opportunities. The Indian economy was thriving, and A&M's entry into the market was timely. However, establishing our brand among established incumbents posed a notable challenge.

Despite this, our firm's global expertise and the trust we had garnered from clients over the years positioned us favorably. This, coupled with new opportunities, such as the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, integrated work with other teams and presented a pathway for growth and differentiation. I had the privilege of being involved in one of the largest cases, where our team's expertise played a pivotal role.

Navigating through these challenges and opportunities, we were able to carve a niche for A&M in the Indian market. Our ability to leverage global experience, coupled with our understanding of local dynamics, allowed us to deliver impactful solutions and earn the trust of clients and stakeholders.

Reflecting on your time at A&M, can you highlight the skills you developed or gained and how they contribute to your current role?

During my tenure at A&M, I've cultivated a diverse skill set and perspective, leveraging my background to bring fresh insights to our projects. I firmly believe in the power of teamwork, where our collective knowledge, execution prowess and client relationships converge to create magic every day.

Our relentless focus on these core aspects—knowledge, execution strength, relationships and client trust—has been pivotal in driving individual and organizational growth over the years. Moving forward, I am committed to continuing this legacy of excellence, contributing to our ongoing success and driving growth for the future.

Who are your closest mentors, and what important lessons have you learned from them?

Nandini Chopra is undoubtedly a powerhouse. From the first day I met her during my interview, she left a lasting impact on me. It's truly inspiring to witness how she upholds her and the organization's values and elevates them to new heights. Her profound knowledge, assertiveness and, most importantly, trust in her team are constant sources of encouragement and motivation for all of us to strive for excellence every day.

She's an exceptional mentor, and I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have her guidance. Her presence was a key factor in my decision to rejoin the organization.

Share your approach to building and maintaining relationships with colleagues and clients. How do these relationships enhance your effectiveness and success in your current role?

In my approach, trust is paramount in building and maintaining relationships with colleagues and clients. At A&M, I've seen how this value is woven into our culture, making relationship-building a natural aspect of our interactions.

I prioritize open communication, empathy and reliability to foster genuine connections. These relationships enhance teamwork, collaboration and client partnerships, leading to increased effectiveness and success in my role.

Based on your experience, what advice or insights would you offer to professionals considering a return to A&M or rejoining a former employer?

Firstly, I've always considered the industry's growth potential and the company's competitive advantage. A&M's industry standing and innovative approach have consistently offered promising avenues for professional advancement.

Secondly, having a capable and supportive team has been crucial. At A&M, I've been fortunate to work alongside incredibly talented individuals who excel at navigating challenges and seizing opportunities with determination and expertise.

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, is the organizational culture. A&M's culture is one of inclusivity, collaboration and continuous learning. This culture has made my journey smooth and enjoyable, fostering an environment where I feel valued and empowered to grow.

How do you balance the demands of consulting with maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and what strategies do you employ to ensure personal and professional fulfillment?

I maintain a healthy work-life balance by enjoying what I do. Our team ensures that individuals who may be working long hours for extended periods are monitored and provided timely breaks when needed.

I prioritize effective time management, setting boundaries and allocating time for activities that recharge me. Open communication with my team helps manage workload and expectations effectively. Additionally, A&M's fun activities and groups keep the mood light and the atmosphere enjoyable, contributing to overall fulfillment in both personal and professional life.

Describe the office culture in Mumbai from your perspective.

The office culture in Mumbai is characterized by a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere. There's an incredible culture that emphasizes professionalism, warmth and mutual respect among colleagues. Strong leadership sets the tone, fostering an environment where employees feel empowered to innovate and excel. Open communication is encouraged, creating a collaborative atmosphere where ideas are freely exchanged and valued.

Additionally, there's a palpable vibe of professional growth, with ample opportunities for learning and development. The office also hosts a variety of fun activities that contribute to team bonding and morale. Overall, the office culture in Mumbai is inclusive, supportive and conducive to both personal and professional success.