Sanket Agrawal

Charting a Strategic Course at Mittal Brothers

Sanket Agrawal

Vice President,

Mittal Brothers

From a research intern at the Central Water and Power Research Station to leading Mittal Brothers Pvt. Ltd. as its Vice President, Sanket Agrawal’s career progression exemplifies dedication and strategic leadership. His journey began with a focus on the fundamentals of humility and recognising the value of every team member’s contribution. Early roles provided Sanket with essential skills in strategic thinking, effective communication, and making informed decisions under pressure. With MTech in construction engineering and management and BE in civil engineering, he built a robust project management foundation. His proficiency in engaging senior stakeholders has been crucial in aligning projects at his previous organisations, helping them achieve strategic goals. Sanket’s leadership philosophy is grounded in empathy, collaboration, and empowerment. He believes in fostering a culture of open dialogue and leading by example to inspire and motivate his team. Adaptability and continuous learning have been key components of his approach, enabling him to navigate the complexities of the real estate industry effectively. As vice president, Sanket is playing a pivotal role in the growth of Mittal Brothers. He has been instrumental in devising and implementing business plans that drive the company forward. His expertise in process management and tracking ensures that projects are executed efficiently and effectively. With a career that reflects a blend of technical expertise, strategic insight, and a commitment to fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment, Sanket has carved a niche for himself. He discloses more about his journey and strategies with TradeFlock in an exclusive interview.

I draw strength from my ability to inspire and motivate teams, along with strengths in strategic thinking, effective communication, and building stakeholder relationships.

How does your engineering background inform your business strategy development?

My engineering background forms the bedrock of my business strategy approach. It provides me with a methodical, problem-solving mindset crucial for analysing complexities, devising innovative solutions, and optimising organisational processes. For instance, my technical proficiency enables thorough project feasibility assessments, rigorous risk evaluations, and the effective implementation of advanced technologies. Applying engineering principles enhances operational efficiency, streamlines workflows, and elevates project management practices. This foundation supports data-driven decision-making, ensuring our business strategies align robustly with organisational objectives and market dynamics.

What are your key leadership strengths and areas in which you're actively improving?

As a leader, I draw strength from my ability to inspire and motivate teams, along with strengths in strategic thinking, effective communication, and building stakeholder relationships. I prioritise creating an inclusive environment where each team member feels valued and heard, supported by ongoing learning and industry insights. Areas for improvement include enhancing my proficiency in emerging technologies like AI and digital transformation. I am also sharpening my crisis management and resilience skills to navigate the unpredictable real estate market. Through feedback and personal development investments, I aim to strengthen leadership and adaptability further.

Who has been your greatest mentor or source of inspiration in your career?

Throughout my career journey, I’ve been fortunate to have had several mentors who have profoundly influenced my path. However, my greatest source of inspiration has been my father. His unwavering work ethic, integrity, and commitment to excellence have been guiding principles for me. He taught me the importance of perseverance, humility, and the value of building lasting relationships. Professionally, I’ve also drawn inspiration from industry leaders who exemplify visionary leadership and innovation. Their ability to navigate challenges and drive transformative change in the real estate sector continues to motivate me deeply.

What unique challenges does Indian real estate pose, and how have you handled them?

The Indian real estate sector faces unique challenges, including regulatory complexities, market volatility, and diverse consumer preferences. Successfully navigating these requires a proactive strategy. Compliance with regulatory changes is critical, necessitating proactive engagement with regulatory bodies. Market fluctuations demand robust research, portfolio diversification, and flexible business models. Meeting diverse consumer needs requires a customer-centric approach, integrating feedback and market insights into project customization. By prioritising regulatory compliance, market dynamics, and consumer preferences, we ensure resilience, sustained growth, and competitive advantage in the Indian real estate market.

What are the top opportunities in Indian real estate today?

The Indian real estate sector is teeming with opportunities, fueled by urbanisation, economic expansion, and shifting consumer preferences. Affordable housing stands out, supported by government initiatives for universal housing access. Tier II and Tier III cities are also experiencing robust growth in commercial real estate, offering prospects in office spaces, co-working hubs, and retail developments. The rise of smart cities and sustainable practices further drives industry innovation. Moreover, advancements in proptech solutions, virtual reality, and blockchain are set to enhance customer experiences and operational efficiency, propelling the sector towards dynamic growth and new opportunities.

How do you envision your role evolving with changes in real estate?

As the real estate industry evolves, I foresee my role becoming more dynamic and diverse. With technology integration and sustainability shaping the landscape, I aim to drive innovation and keep our organisation ahead. This involves fostering a culture of continuous improvement, embracing digital transformation, and exploring new business models. I also plan to focus on strengthening stakeholder relationships. Building partnerships with government bodies, industry peers, and communities will be pivotal in navigating industry complexities. Moreover, meeting rising consumer expectations will be a priority, enhancing experiences through personalised, innovative solutions.