Our alumnus Akshay Shrishrimal completed his Master's degree in International Business and Engineering at SRH. After his studies, he founded Glanzify.
Tell us, what are you doing right now and what does your professional life look like?
I am the CEO and Managing Director at Glanzify UG, Heidelberg, the startup I founded during my Master's programme in International Business Engineering at SRH Heidelberg. My professional life is a dynamic mix of responsibilities, including research, product development, business strategy, and overall company management. This role constantly presents both professional and personal challenges.
I'm deeply engaged in advancing our groundbreaking technology for the dental industry, which streamlines clear aligner manufacturing, potentially revolutionizing the sector by reducing manufacturing time, costs, and raw materials by nearly 90%. Our fully automated machines not only boost efficiency but also simplify tasks for dental technicians. Glanzify's machines are suitable for dental laboratories and businesses looking to establish their clear aligner manufacturing facilities.
The journey from the company's inception to its current state, with upcoming phases, has presented a diverse array of challenges. These challenges have been invaluable in facilitating my continuous learning and growth.
What makes your industry so exciting for you?
The additive manufacturing industry, specifically focusing on dental technology, is profoundly exciting to me. It's a sector that continuously presents new challenges and opportunities. The dental industry, in particular, is ripe for innovation, and that's what makes it so intriguing. The primary motivation behind my passion for this field is the ability to solve real-world problems and make a positive impact.
Our technology at Glanzify has the potential to significantly reduce the manufacturing time, cost, and raw material required for clear aligners. The prospect of transforming an industry by addressing a critical issue, such as cost-intensive treatment, and enabling access for a broader range of people is what keeps me driven and engaged. It's also a constantly evolving field, with the challenge of achieving certifications for the EU and US markets, which adds another layer of excitement to my work.
How do you imagine your future professional career? What career paths, opportunities for advancement or professional fields would you like to pursue in the next few years?
As I reflect on my future professional career, I envision a continued commitment to entrepreneurship. The journey with Glanzify has been immensely fulfilling, and I aim to further expand the company's reach and offerings. In the coming years, I foresee myself investing a significant portion of my time understanding the industry problem and finding the solutions for it.
Additionally, I plan to see Glanzify grow globally with a well-established team. While I'm deeply committed to my current venture, I'm confident that my ongoing focus on entrepreneurship and innovation will open doors to exciting opportunities, and I'll be ready to embrace them when the time is right.
The transition from studying to working is always exciting. How do you remember this period? Were there any special challenges?
The phase during my graduation was a bit of an unconventional journey, especially as there were no fellow students who had successfully started a company. Most of my peers were actively seeking traditional job opportunities, but the path I was choosing was distinct. This entrepreneurial pursuit brought forth a unique set of challenges, but it was an exciting and transformative period in my life.
Being an entrepreneur in a foreign country presented numerous challenges. I had no established business networks, grappled with a language barrier, and encountered financial hurdles. Furthermore, the initial team members who initially joined me on this journey had to depart for their own reasons, leaving me to navigate these challenges independently. Yet, what I learned during this phase was the incredible power of self-belief. It's the unwavering belief in oneself that empowers us to tackle even the most formidable challenges.
During my second year of studies, I began working on my business idea, constantly considering how the management and business strategies I was learning in my course could be implemented in my own venture. I wholeheartedly embraced entrepreneurship as, even before I completed my final thesis, I was able to secure government grants to launch my startup, setting the stage for the extraordinary journey I'm embarked on today.
How did you experience the collaboration with the professors?
The guidance and mentorship I received from my professors particularly Prof. Dr. Rüdiger Fischer and Prof. Bernhard Küppers and Mr Felix Kirschstein at SRH Heidelberg were instrumental in shaping my journey. They not only imparted knowledge but also instilled the belief that with dedication and hard work, any goal is attainable.
What made your studies at SRH University Heidelberg special?
The best thing about studying is the way it transforms you. It's not just about gaining knowledge, it's about pushing your boundaries, embracing new challenges. It's a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, each lesson a stepping stone to a brighter future. Studying sparks your evolution, making you better and more inspired, ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
What have you learnt from your studies that is helpful in the working world?
My studies provided a solid foundation, not only in terms of knowledge but also in critical skills like time management, teamwork, and problem-solving. This preparation has been invaluable in navigating the complexities of the professional world.
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Find out more about Glanzify here!
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