The Post Graduate Program for Executives in Visionary Leadership for Manufacturing (PGPEX-VLM) is a unique, full-time residential management program offered jointly by IIM Calcutta, IIT Kanpur, and IIT Madras. This program is tailored for professionals in the manufacturing sector aiming for leadership roles, integrating management education with cutting-edge technology.
This guide provides a detailed overview of the PGPEX-VLM program at IIM Calcutta, covering admissions criteria, academic structure, program fees, career prospects, and frequently asked questions.
1. About IIM Calcutta PGPEX-VLM:
What is PGPEX-VLM?
The Post Graduate Program for Executives in Visionary Leadership for Manufacturing (PGPEX-VLM) is a one-year, full-time residential program designed for professionals in the manufacturing sector. This unique tri-institute program is offered jointly by:
Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIMC) – Focus on Business Excellence
Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) – Focus on Product Excellence
Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) – Focus on Process Excellence
PGPEX-VLM is tailored for mid-career engineers and professionals seeking to transition into leadership roles in operations, manufacturing, and supply chain management. The program blends management concepts, advanced manufacturing strategies, and leadership training, creating a bridge between engineering expertise and business acumen.
The Vision Behind IIM Calcutta PGPEX-VLM
The Indian manufacturing sector is undergoing rapid transformation due to globalization, Industry 4.0, and technological advancements. To remain competitive on a global scale, India needs visionary leaders who can drive innovation, operational efficiency, and strategic growth.
The PGPEX-VLM program was conceptualized under the Indo-Japan Cooperation Agreement in 2006 as a flagship initiative to develop such leaders. It aligns with India’s National Manufacturing Competitiveness Initiative (NMCI) and is supported by:
Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)
Ministry of Education, Government of India
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)
By integrating Indian and Japanese best practices in manufacturing, PGPEX-VLM produces global leaders equipped with strategic, analytical, and technological skills.
Program Structure: Three Pillars of Excellence
The PGPEX-VLM curriculum is structured around three core pillars, each hosted by one of the participating institutes:
Business Excellence – IIM Calcutta
Strategy Formulation and Implementation
Change Management and Leadership
Organizational Behavior and Ethics
Financial Decision-Making in Manufacturing
Entrepreneurial Thinking for Manufacturing
Product Excellence – IIT Kanpur
Supply Chain and Logistics Management
Lean Manufacturing Principles
New Product Development & Innovation
Robotics, Ergonomics, and Advanced Materials
SAP ERP and Data Analytics
Process Excellence – IIT Madras
Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing
Internet of Things (IoT) in Manufacturing
Green Manufacturing and Sustainability
ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor Training
Process Automation and Optimization
The integration of these three domains ensures that PGPEX-VLM graduates develop a holistic understanding of business, product, and process optimization.
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Program Highlights & Unique Features
Intensive 1-Year Curriculum
Over 1173+ classroom contact hours
8 academic terms covering strategic and operational areas
Case-based learning, simulations, and role-plays
Industry-focused live projects and workshops
Industry Immersion
6-week internship in top manufacturing firms
Hands-on exposure to global supply chains and operations
In-depth problem-solving and process improvement projects
International Exposure – Japan Immersion Program
1-week industry tour in Japan, hosted by JICA
Visits to Toyota, Suzuki, Sony, and other manufacturing giants
Learning from Kaizen, Lean, and Six Sigma methodologies
Exposure to Japanese work culture, automation, and efficiency models
Leadership & Soft Skills Development
Communication, negotiation, and cross-functional collaboration
Strategy execution and crisis management
Ethical leadership and corporate governance
This structured approach ensures that graduates of PGPEX-VLM emerge as global leaders equipped to manage technological disruptions and drive manufacturing excellence.
Who Should Apply?
The IIM Calcutta PGPEX-VLM program is ideal for mid-career professionals in:
Manufacturing, Production, and Operations Management
Supply Chain, Logistics, and Procurement
Quality Control, Product Development, and Process Engineering
Automation, Industrial Engineering, and Technology Management
It is best suited for individuals who:
Have 4.5+ years of experience in manufacturing or related fields
Want to transition into leadership roles
Seek to develop a blend of technical and managerial expertise
Aspire to drive operational excellence, innovation, and strategy
2. IIM Calcutta Admissions Criteria & Selection Process
Eligibility Criteria for IIM Calcutta PGPEX-VLM
To be considered for admission into the PGPEX-VLM program, candidates must meet the following minimum requirements:
1. Educational Qualification
Candidates must be first-class graduate engineers (B.E./B.Tech) with First Division/First Class Marks from Secondary Examination onwards.
The engineering degree must be obtained from a recognized university.
2. Work Experience Requirements
Candidates must have relevant work experience in the manufacturing or allied industries. The requirements vary based on sponsorship type:
Category | Minimum Work Experience | Maximum Work Experience | Placement Eligibility |
Self-Sponsored Candidates | 4.5 years | 10 years | Yes |
Sponsored Candidates | 4.5 years | No upper limit | No |
Candidates on Study Leave | 4.5 years | No upper limit | Yes (with NOC from employer) |
Work experience should be in the manufacturing, engineering, or related sectors, including roles in:\n - Production Planning & Control
Quality Control
Supply Chain & Logistics
Plant Engineering & Maintenance
Industrial Design & Development
The cut-off date for calculating work experience is February 28, 2025, for the 2025-26 batch.
3. Other Conditions
Candidates must ensure their eligibility before applying. Applications from ineligible candidates will not be considered, and the application fee will not be refunded.
Providing false information or suppressing facts at any stage of the admission process will result in immediate disqualification.
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Selection Process for IIM Calcutta PGPEX-VLM
The admissions process consists of multiple stages, evaluating candidates based on academic performance, work experience, aptitude test, and personal interview.
Step 1: Application & Shortlisting
Candidates must submit an online application through the IIM Calcutta admissions portal.
Applications are reviewed based on:
Academic records (Class 10, 12, Engineering Degree)
Work experience in relevant industries
Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining career goals and program fit
Step 2: Written Test (Aptitude Test)
Shortlisted candidates must appear for a Written Test covering three key areas:
Section | Topics Covered | Weightage |
Verbal Ability | Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Vocabulary | 30% |
Quantitative Ability | Arithmetic, Algebra, Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning | 30% |
Engineering Ability | Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Lean Methodologies | 40% |
The written test is conducted in four cities: Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, and Delhi.
The test format is offline (subject to change based on government advisories).
Step 3: Personal Interview (PI)
Candidates who clear the written test are invited for a Personal Interview (PI) conducted by faculty members from IIM Calcutta, IIT Kanpur, and IIT Madras.
The interview assesses:\n - Leadership potential
Problem-solving and analytical skills
Industry knowledge and domain expertise
Communication and interpersonal abilities
The mode of the interview (offline/online) will be finalized based on circumstances and government advisories.
Step 4: Final Selection & Merit List
The final selection is based on multiple parameters, with different weightages assigned to each criterion:
Selection Criteria | Weight (%) |
Written Test | 30% |
Secondary Exam (Class 10) | 5% |
Higher Secondary Exam (Class 12) | 5% |
Engineering Degree Performance | 5% |
Work Experience | 5% |
Personal Interview | 50% |
The final merit list is prepared based on these scores, and admission offers are extended accordingly.
Reservation Policy
The PGPEX-VLM program follows a strict merit-based selection process. There is no reservation policy, and all candidates are evaluated based on their performance in the admission process.
Disputes & Jurisdiction
Any dispute concerning admissions will be subject to the jurisdiction of Kolkata courts.
Important Dates for Admissions (Batch 2025-26)
Date | Event |
September 3, 2024 | Application portal opens |
November 5, 2024 | Application portal closes |
November 12, 2024 | Deadline for referee recommendations |
November 19, 2024 | Admit Cards issued for Written Test |
December 1, 2024 | Written Test in 4 cities |
December 6, 2024 | Call letters issued for Personal Interview |
December 22, 2024 | Personal Interviews at IIM Calcutta |
December 31, 2024 | Final results announced |
How to Prepare for the Selection Process?
1. Strengthen Your Fundamentals
Brush up on engineering concepts, manufacturing best practices, and industry trends.
Revise quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, and data interpretation for the Written Test.
Improve English proficiency, especially reading comprehension and business writing.
2. Prepare a Strong SOP
Clearly articulate why PGPEX-VLM aligns with your career goals.
Highlight your work experience, leadership skills, and contributions to the industry.
Showcase how you can add value to the program and benefit from it.
3. Get Ready for the Personal Interview
Practice answering questions about your professional journey, industry challenges, and leadership experiences.
Be prepared to discuss your long-term career aspirations and how the program fits into them.
Work on your communication, articulation, and clarity of thought.
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3. IIM Calcutta Academic Structure
The PGPEX-VLM program at IIM Calcutta, IIT Kanpur, and IIT Madras is designed to provide a balanced blend of management education, technical expertise, and leadership development. The program follows an intensive one-year format, structured into eight academic terms, and integrates classroom learning, industry projects, case studies, and international exposure.
This section provides a detailed breakdown of the curriculum, learning methodology, and unique features that make PGPEX-VLM a top-tier executive program for manufacturing professionals.
IIM Calcutta Curriculum Breakdown: Three Core Pillars
The PGPEX-VLM curriculum is built on three major pillars of excellence, each hosted by a partnering institute:
1. Business Excellence (IIM Calcutta)
Focus: Leadership, Strategy, and Organizational Growth
Courses include:\n - Strategic Management for Manufacturing
Leadership & Change Management
Business Economics & Financial Decision-Making
Marketing for Industrial & B2B Markets
Operations Research & Decision Science
Ethical Business Practices in a Globalized World
At IIM Calcutta, students learn to develop business strategies, drive organizational transformation, and navigate financial decision-making in manufacturing enterprises.
2. Product Excellence (IIT Kanpur)
Focus: Innovation, Product Development, and Supply Chain Efficiency
Courses include:\n - New Product Development & Innovation
Supply Chain Management & Logistics
Lean Manufacturing & Six Sigma
Robotics, Automation & Ergonomics
SAP ERP Systems & Digital Manufacturing
Materials Science & Advanced Engineering Technologies
💡 At IIT Kanpur, students gain exposure to cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and product development strategies to enhance industrial competitiveness.
3. Process Excellence (IIT Madras)
Focus: Operational Efficiency, Industry 4.0, and Sustainability
Courses include:\n - Industry 4.0 & Smart Manufacturing
Internet of Things (IoT) in Manufacturing
Green Manufacturing & Sustainability Practices
ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor Training
Advanced Process Optimization Techniques
Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Process Automation
At IIT Madras, students develop expertise in optimizing production processes, implementing sustainable practices, and leveraging AI-driven automation.
Pedagogy & Learning Approach
The IIM Calcutta PGPEX-VLM program incorporates diverse learning methodologies to ensure that participants gain real-world business and technical acumen.
1. Case-Based Learning
Harvard-style case discussions to simulate real-world manufacturing and management challenges.
Live business case studies from leading global manufacturing firms.
2. Industry Projects & Hands-on Training
6-week industry internship at top manufacturing firms.
Participants work on live industry projects in operations, supply chain, and process improvement.
3. Interactive Workshops & Leadership Seminars
Sessions with industry experts, CXOs, and manufacturing leaders.
Leadership training modules on strategy execution and crisis management.
4. Simulation Games & Role Plays
Factory simulations, lean manufacturing games, and ERP implementation projects.
Cross-functional team exercises to enhance collaboration and decision-making.
5. International Industry Immersion – Japan Study Tour
1-week study tour in Japan, focusing on Japanese manufacturing excellence.
Visits to leading firms like Toyota, Suzuki, and Sony to learn about Kaizen, Lean, and Six Sigma.
Exposure to automation, robotics, and sustainable manufacturing practices.
The Japan immersion program provides a first-hand learning experience in global manufacturing standards, innovation, and efficiency.
Term-Wise Structure of PGPEX-VLM
The one-year PGPEX-VLM program is divided into 8 academic terms, each covering different aspects of business, product, and process excellence.
Term | Key Focus Areas | Institute |
Term 1 | Ice-breaking & Breakthrough Management, Business Fundamentals | IIM Calcutta |
Term 2 | Strategic & Financial Decision-Making, Supply Chain Planning | IIT Kanpur |
Term 3 | Lean Manufacturing, Product Design & Development | IIT Madras |
Term 4 | Leadership & Change Management, Marketing for Industrial Sectors | IIM Calcutta |
Term 5 | AI & Industry 4.0, Digital Manufacturing Technologies | IIT Madras |
Term 6 | International Industry Tour – Japan Immersion Program | JICA, Japan |
Term 7 | Manufacturing Strategy, Business Transformation | IIT Kanpur |
Term 8 | Capstone Project & Industry Internship (6 weeks) | Multiple Locations |
Each term is designed to progressively build expertise in business leadership, product innovation, and operational excellence.
Why is IIM Calcutta PGPEX-VLM’s Curriculum Unique?
Integration of Management & Technology: The only executive program in India that combines business leadership training with advanced manufacturing technologies.
Industry-Oriented Learning: Designed in consultation with CII, JICA, DPIIT, and leading global firms.
Hands-on Exposure: Includes industrial visits, live projects, ERP system training, and factory simulations.
Global Best Practices: Exposure to Japanese efficiency models, automation, and AI-driven manufacturing solutions.
How Does IIM Calcutta PGPEX-VLM Compare to Other MBA & EMBA Programs?
Feature | PGPEX-VLM | Traditional MBA | Executive MBA (EMBA) |
Focus | Manufacturing & Supply Chain | General Management | Leadership & Strategy |
Duration | 1 Year (Full-Time) | 2 Years (Full-Time) | 1-2 Years (Part-Time) |
Eligibility | Engineers with 4.5+ years of experience | Graduates with any background | Mid-career professionals |
Industry Linkage | CII, JICA, IITs, IIMC, Toyota, Suzuki | Varies | Varies |
Global Exposure | Japan Study Tour | Limited | Optional |
Technical Component | AI, IoT, Industry 4.0, Robotics | Limited | Limited |
Placement Support | Yes | Yes | Limited |
IIM Calcutta PGPEX-VLM is ideal for engineers and mid-career professionals looking for specialized leadership roles in manufacturing, supply chain, and operations.
4. IIM Calcutta Program Fees & Financial Aspects
The PGPEX-VLM program at IIM Calcutta, IIT Kanpur, and IIT Madras is a highly specialized executive program, and its fee structure reflects the premium learning experience, global exposure, and industry integration it offers. This section provides a detailed breakdown of the program fees, additional costs, payment schedule, and financial aid options.
Total Program Fee for IIM Calcutta PGPEX-VLM (2025-26 Batch)
Component | Amount (INR) |
Program Fee | ₹13,50,000 |
Refundable Caution Deposit | ₹40,000 |
Total Payable | ₹13,90,000 |
The caution deposit of ₹40,000 is refundable after necessary adjustments at the end of the program.
The program fee covers tuition, course materials, faculty costs, and administrative expenses.
What is Covered in the Program Fee?
Tuition Fees – Classroom sessions, case studies, and guest lectures from industry leaders.
Course Materials – Books, study materials, online access to case studies.
Workshops & Seminars – Leadership programs, manufacturing excellence modules.
International Immersion in Japan – Industry visits, travel arrangements, and training under JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency).
Project & Industry Visits – Domestic exposure to top manufacturing firms.
Additional Costs (Not Covered in the Program Fee)
Participants must bear the following additional expenses:
Expense | Estimated Cost (INR) |
Accommodation & Boarding | ₹1,50,000 - ₹2,50,000 (varies by location) |
Food & Personal Expenses | ₹60,000 - ₹1,00,000 (approx.) |
Travel for Industrial Visits & Internship | ₹50,000 - ₹1,00,000 |
Laptop & Software (if required) | ₹60,000 - ₹1,20,000 |
Accommodation is not included in the program fee and varies depending on the institute's arrangements.
Students must arrange for travel, food, and living expenses during internships and study tours.
Foreign travel expenses (Japan Study Tour) are partially covered, but students may have to bear additional costs.
Payment Schedule for PGPEX-VLM (2025-26 Batch)
Installment | Amount (INR) | Mode of Payment | Tentative Due Date |
Installment 1 (IIM Calcutta) | ₹90,000 | Payment Gateway | Last Week of January 2025 |
Installment 2 (IIM Calcutta + Caution Deposit) | ₹6,25,000 | Payment Gateway | First Week of April 2025 |
Installment 3 (IIT Kanpur) | ₹2,92,500 | Demand Draft | Second Week of August 2025 |
Installment 4 (IIT Madras) | ₹2,92,500 | Payment Gateway | Last Week of October 2025 |
Installment 5 (IIM Calcutta – Common Expenses) | ₹90,000 | Payment Gateway | Second Week of December 2025 |
The program fee is divided across the three institutes, and payments must be made as per the given schedule.
Late payment penalties may apply if installments are not cleared on time.
5. Placement & Career Prospects
Top Sectors: Manufacturing, Supply Chain, Consulting, Operations, and Product Development.
Key Recruiters: Accenture, PwC, Amazon, Tata Steel, Mahindra, L&T, and more.
Roles Offered: Product Manager, Supply Chain Manager, Operations Director, and Leadership roles in Manufacturing.
Graduates of the PGPEX-VLM program hold leadership positions in top companies worldwide, utilizing strategic and technological insights gained through the program.
IIM Calcutta PGPEX-VLM vs. Other Executive MBA Programs: Career Outcomes
Factor | PGPEX-VLM | IIM Executive MBA | ISB PGPpro / ISB PGPmax |
Focus Area | Manufacturing, Operations | General Management | Leadership & Strategy |
Global Exposure | Japan Study Tour | Limited | Global Alumni Network |
Placement Support | Strong (IIM + IIT Network) | Moderate | Varies |
Salary Growth (%) | 100-150% | 80-120% | 60-100% |
Career Shift | Operations, Supply Chain, Tech | Cross-Industry | Senior Leadership Only |
IIM Calcutta PGPEX-VLM is ideal for professionals looking to fast-track their careers in manufacturing, supply chain, and industrial leadership, with high salary growth and strong placement support.
6. FAQs on PGPEX-VLM at IIM Calcutta
Q1. Who is the ideal candidate for PGPEX-VLM?
A. Engineers with 4.5+ years of experience in manufacturing, operations, or supply chain management, aiming for leadership roles.
Q2. How competitive is the selection process?
A. It is highly competitive, with candidates evaluated based on academic merit, work experience, aptitude test performance, and interview.
Q3. What is the significance of the Japan immersion program?
A. It provides exposure to Japanese manufacturing excellence through site visits and interactions with industry leaders.
Q4. Can candidates from non-manufacturing backgrounds apply?
A. No, this program is exclusively for professionals from the manufacturing and allied sectors.
Q5. What are the career benefits of this program?
A. PGPEX-VLM graduates transition into senior leadership roles, leveraging strategic, operational, and technological expertise.
Q6. What is the application deadline for the 2025-26 batch?
A. The application portal opens on September 3, 2024, and closes on November 5, 2024.
Q7. Is financial aid available?
A. While no direct scholarships exist, candidates can explore education loans and employer sponsorships.
The PGPEX-VLM program at IIM Calcutta is an elite executive program designed for experienced professionals in manufacturing, providing a blend of management expertise and technology-driven leadership. With a rigorous curriculum, international immersion, and strong industry connections, this program is a gateway to top-tier leadership roles in the manufacturing sector.
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