IIM Rohtak Director Honored with Global Leadership Award in Delhi
Professor Dheeraj Sharma, the director of IIM Rohtak, has received a prestigious international honor. The World Management Congress presented him with the Exemplary Governance Leadership Award during its 46th annual gathering in New Delhi.
Rigorous Selection Process for the Award
The Congress's Awards and Appreciation Committee managed a highly competitive selection process. Organizers reported receiving more than 1,400 nominations from across the globe. Only seven individuals made it to the final shortlist for this distinguished recognition.
Transformative Leadership at IIM Rohtak
Professor Sharma earned this award for his outstanding work in governance and institution-building. His initiatives have significantly enhanced IIM Rohtak's national presence and brought it in line with international standards.
Under his guidance, the institute achieved critical milestones:
- Securing international accreditations from the Association of MBAs (AMBA) and the Business Graduates Association (BGA).
- Completing the move to its permanent campus in 2018, a project finished under the estimated budget.
- Launching innovative academic programs like the Integrated Programme in Management and the pioneering Integrated Programme in Law, the first such law offering among all IIMs.
Academic Excellence and Vision
Professor Sharma's academic contributions extend beyond administrative success. A 2023 Stanford University list recognized him as one of the world's top 2% researchers, highlighting his scholarly impact.
During his acceptance speech at the Congress, he emphasized fundamental principles for institutional growth. Sharma argued that true excellence starts with autonomy, particularly financial independence. He also stressed that education must focus on developing value-based citizens, not merely constructing physical infrastructure.
The award ceremony took place at the India International Centre, marking a significant moment for both the director and the institution he leads.