New Delhi, June 1 -- The academics were on point for Pankaj Rana, a gold medallist in Bachelor of Technology from Kurukshetra University. But alongside grasping theoretical knowledge, his focus was always on gaining practical experience. It continues to be the norm even today.

"To ask whether something will actually work in the real world. I still apply it, whether we are discussing a product launch, a go-to market strategy or people decisions," says Gurugram-based Rana, 45, CEO, Hisense India.

When he took on his current role in 2024, Rana's first challenge was to bridge the brand awareness gap. Few of the major retailers and regional chains had a clear picture of what Hisense India had to offer. What worked even during those early day...