Hi, I’m
Kaushik Mandal
Training Expert In Management Skills, Communication Customer Service, Training And Development, Designing Skills In Handicraft And Handcrafted Items, Textiles And Merchandising Of The Same
Kolkata
Summary
Professional with 30 years of experience in design and management, specializing in craft designs, textiles, and art industries. Expertise in manpower development and performance enhancement, ensuring high-quality production. Proven ability in international design development and interior design training, with a strong focus on multitasking and proactive growth. Results-oriented leader with exceptional management, problem-solving, and team-building skills, committed to driving organizational success.
Overview
38
years of professional experience
12
years of post-secondary education
7
Languages
Work History
Avishya Trading Pvt Ltd
Textile Merchandising Consultant
08.2023 - 03.2025
Job overview
- Championed a data-driven approach to decision-making, leveraging sales analytics and customer feedback to inform future merchandising initiatives.
- Created instructional content for retail staff to enhance merchandising techniques.
- Streamlined communication between vendors, buyers, and store personnel to ensure timely execution of merchandising initiatives.
- Evaluated the effectiveness of clients'' promotional campaigns and provided actionable insights for future improvements.
- Conducted ingredient sourcing to ensure the highest quality while maintaining cost efficiency.
- Demonstrated flexibility in adapting to changing business priorities while maintaining a strong focus on strategic sourcing initiatives and overall cost reduction goals.
- Optimized global sourcing strategies through comprehensive market research and analysis of industry trends.
- Streamlined procurement processes by implementing efficient sourcing strategies and supplier management.
- Evaluated third-party vendor risk management practices to ensure adequate oversight was in place to mitigate potential risks associated with outsourcing arrangements.
- Championed sustainable sourcing initiatives within the organization by identifying eco-friendly alternatives to traditional materials and engaging suppliers in sustainability discussions.
- Resolved daily issues by handling invoice discrepancies, replacements for rejected materials and missed and late deliveries.
- Researched and evaluated new and current vendors to determine suitability of products and contract and pricing negotiations.
- Enhanced procurement efficiency by streamlining purchasing processes and implementing cost-saving measures.
- Developed and executed sourcing strategies to identify new suppliers, increasing competition and driving down costs.
- Coordinated efforts between internal departments to improve communication throughout the entire procurement process.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for process improvement and cost reduction in the supply chain.
- Reduced lead times for delivery of goods by optimizing logistics operations and developing strong relationships with transportation providers.
- Implemented a vendor management system that streamlined the evaluation process for new suppliers.
- Conducted market research to stay abreast of industry trends, informing strategic sourcing decisions.
- Managed supply chain process, from order placement to delivery, to facilitate on-time and accurate fulfillment.
- Resolved invoice and payment issues to facilitate prompt payment to suppliers.
- Evaluated supplier quotes based on purchasing procedures and competitiveness in quality, price and delivery.
- Created and maintained portfolio of qualified vendors to expand options.
- Utilized market intelligence to identify opportunities for savings and cost reduction.
- Developed and maintained knowledgeable and productive team of employees.
- Conducted research to address shipping errors and packaging mistakes.
- Promoted brand at industry events and through ongoing networking efforts.
Rimil Design Studio
Consultant Design N Market Linkage Social Media
08.2022 - 09.2023
Job overview
- Expanded clientele through referrals, social media marketing, and targeted outreach initiatives that showcased the value of personalized fashion consulting services.
- Elevated brand recognition via strategic planning and execution of social media initiatives.
- Increased brand presence via focused social media efforts.
- Corresponded weekly with clients to discuss campaign strategy and ways to improve engagement for social media marketing activities.
- Generated new leads through networking events, referrals, and social media marketing efforts.
- Participated actively in promotional activities such as social media marketing campaigns or interviews to increase show visibility.
- Grew clientele by employing social media strategies and engaging with the community.
- Enhanced brand awareness by implementing innovative social media marketing strategies.
- Promoted brand awareness through social media marketing, guest blogging, and influencer collaborations.
- Oversaw management of marketing tasks for textile and designer product clients.
- Enhanced social media marketing by collecting and distributing guest testimonials.
Shreedha by Doel
Design and Textile Sourcing Consultant
11.2020 - 05.2022
Job overview
- Reduced lead times by working closely with suppliers to optimize production schedules and delivery timelines, ensuring timely fulfillment of orders without impacting customer satisfaction levels.
- Conducted trend research and analysis, allowing for timely creation of fresh and appealing textile designs.
- Established strong relationships with manufacturers to ensure seamless production processes from design through final delivery.
- Remained savvy in new and upcoming trends to design new patterns based on popularity and demand.
- Developed custom fabric designs for clients, leading to repeat business and positive customer feedback.
- Focused on color and contrast while developing new ideas and concepts.
- Worked independently and in team environment to design new products.
- Displays self-motivation to meet deadlines and produce new products with public appeal.
- Incorporated out-of-the-box thinking to create new designs for Type projects.
- Secured key accounts by presenting innovative design concepts that aligned with client needs and expectations.
- Created and repaired custom textile projects and demonstrated excellent sewing skills.
- Demonstrates familiarity with multiple types of woven fiber techniques.
- Regularly met with clients to discuss project progress and updates, maintaining open lines of communication throughout the entire process.
Discovered.us
Sourcing Coordinator cum Design Consultant
09.2019 - 09.2020
Job overview
- Was working as the Sourcing Coordinator cum Design Consultant for the Dutch Website working with sustainable craft from craft producing regions of the world.
- Coordinating with various craft producing regions specific to a state in India and identify the craft that would work in international market and connect with artisans thereby.
- Visiting each craft clusters and identify the craft and get the specifications related to the craft and empowering the artisans how their craft selling internationally would enrich their lives.
- Teaching the artisans the modus operandi of photography, uploading the pictures and then getting the specifications related to that craft piece mentioned in the website.
- Teaching them how to finish the final product, packaging as per international standards and shipping them to Indian warehouse.
- Training new recruits to work with new craft clusters and identify the craft that could be listed for international selling
- Supported internal stakeholders by providing timely updates on procurement activities and supplier performance metrics.
- Identified cost reduction opportunities through data analysis and benchmarking against best-in-class practices.
- Streamlined procurement processes for increased efficiency and reduced overhead costs.
- Monitored industry trends and developments to maintain a strategic advantage in the marketplace.
- Contributed to sustainability initiatives by actively seeking eco-friendly suppliers and promoting responsible procurement practices within the organization.
- Enhanced supplier relationships by maintaining clear communication channels and addressing concerns promptly.
- Managed vendor performance through ongoing evaluation and feedback, fostering continuous improvement efforts.
- Maintained documentation for all purchases.
- Conducted phone interviews to assess applicants relevant knowledge, skills, experience and aptitudes.
- Worked with departments to find new and better items to fulfill diverse needs.
- Made valuable contributions to planning of promotions, pricing and inventory levels, enhancing inventory flow, revenue, and profits.
- Searched for hard-to-find items and found high-quality, reliable vendors.
- Developed sourcing strategies to improve procurement processes, supplier relationships and capability development to optimize supply chain.
- Established and maintained accurate records of purchases, pricing and payment terms.
- Generated reports on purchasing activities to support management decisions.
- Communicated regularly with suppliers to uphold accountability for quality standards and timely delivery of goods.
- Reviewed and approved purchase orders and invoices for accuracy and completeness.
- Cultivated strong relationships with vendors to maintain and improve levels of customer service.
- Monitored inventory levels and avoided shortages with timely replenishment of stock.
- Researched and evaluated potential suppliers to determine best fits for company needs and to identify cost savings opportunities.
Novica- In Association with National Geography
Sourcing Coordinator – Merchandiser and Design Consultant
08.2015 - 07.2018
Job overview
- Was Working as Sourcing Coordinator – Merchandiser and design Consultant for Novica – National Geography heading the Eastern and Southern India region with Bangladesh as the new country under him.
- Plan and manage company's overall sourcing strategy.
- In accordance to the company rules and Buying Director’s intervention did research to understand company's Handicraft and Craft operations needs and requirements in terms of Artisans, Designers and entrepreneurs in B2B and B2C format.
- Build relationships with artisans’, Designer and Manufacturer cum exporter vendors for B2B orders and B2C orders and key suppliers like established design houses for craft retailing, entrepreneurs and likewise.
- Negotiate pricing and control costs and build the bridge for better supply chain mechanism and also a holistic relationship between the Artisan’s and the e-commerce portal.
- Develop a yearly budget allocation for round the year supply and deploy, depending on sourcing needs, monthly sales achievable and festive season sales.
- Execute analyses and make suggestions for improvement of overall sourcing strategy.
- Write sourcing related documentation and statements updates on the Files so designated.
UNESCO – Art For Life Project For West Bengal
Freelancer Consultant
05.2013 - 07.2015
Job overview
- Was working as a freelancer Consultant for UNESCO Projects for AFT (Art For Life Projects- Adviser in Crafts to Got Of India’s Project-Banglanatak.com, Kolkata OTHER MNC and MANAGEMENT COMPANIES AND am a Trainer for CRAFT DEVELOPMENTAL SKILLL FOR URBAN AND INTERNATIONAL SCENARIO; SOFT SKILLS, Artisan services, Craft building Skills, Revenue Management and planning, Handicraft related specialization and Design and quality Handling techniques.
- Offering end-to-end training to Grassroots Level Craftsman attached with Design House and like-wise clients like Biswa- Bangla.
- Developing Master Artisan, Skilled as well as Semi Skilled to achieve the finer in Designs, tweaking;, Finishing and technical skills to be able to serve in the Design and Craft related industry specially in the Urban and International Scenario.
- Adjudging the training Needs based on Analysis, Customized Training and Product delivery Development, Training Delivery to sub –ordinate artisans, Post Training Feedback, Determining Training Effectiveness and connecting them to market Fair-trade practices.
- Offering Developmental skill training to design based clients and Artisans at different levels; from Frontline Staffs to Middle Managers in the Retail and E-commerce scenario with forte and deep interest in Product design in Urban context and International level to build productivity levels, Communication with customer related production and supply chain mechanism, Client service Management, Goal Setting, Acceptance to Change, Positive Attitude at work environment, Team Building, Leadership, includes Motivation, Selling Skills, Personal Grooming, Great Team Management, Time Management, Negotiation Skills, Presentation Skills of products etc.
Frankfinn Institute of Air Hostess Training
Consultant Modules Expert Cum Trainer
11.2004 - 01.2012
Job overview
- Offering end-to-end training for Related subjects like Tourism Development, Hospitality, Customer service, Management Skills and other in Houses modules like-wise as per clients needs and subject matter expert .
- Preparing trained students to achieve the finesse in Detailed information pertaining to their subjects as delivered and taught, Finishing it and enhancing technical skills to be able to serve in the related industry.
- Training Need Analysis, Customized Module Development, Training Delivery, Post Training Feedback, Determining Training Effectiveness.
- Offering Developmental skill training to design based clients at different levels; from Frontline Staffs to Middle Managers with forte and deep interest in Product design in Urban context and International level Communication Skills to deliver and build productivity levels, Business Communication with customer related projects, Customer Management, Goal Setting, Acceptance to Change, Positive Attitude at work environment, Team Building, Leadership, includes Motivation, Emotional Intelligence, Selling Skills, Personal Grooming, Team Management, Time Management, Negotiation Skills, Presentation Skills etc.
- Streamlined training materials to create cohesive and easily accessible resources for both trainers and trainees.
- Stayed up-to-date on industry trends and best practices in management education, ensuring the consistent delivery of cutting-edge content to participants.
- Facilitated engaging workshops that focused on key management competencies like teamwork, decision-making, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
- Established clear performance metrics for evaluating the effectiveness of various aspects of management training programs over time.
- Implemented innovative instructional techniques such as role-playing simulations or gamification models in order to keep trainees engaged throughout each session while also demonstrating key concepts effectively.
- Promoted a collaborative learning environment by fostering open communication and team-building exercises within training sessions.
- Analyzed industry trends and organizational requirements to recommend program enhancements.
- Served as a subject matter expert on management principles, providing guidance and support to fellow trainers and curriculum developers within the organization.
- Provided ongoing coaching and mentorship to trainees following completion of formal training programs, supporting continued growth and development as leaders within their organizations.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop relevant case studies, enhancing the practical application of management concepts during training sessions.
- Developed strong relationships with clients, collaborating closely to identify unique managerial challenges and tailor effective solutions through targeted training initiatives.
- Assisted in the development of new training programs, leading to increased employee retention and overall company success.
- Enhanced trainee engagement by incorporating interactive activities and real-world examples into management training sessions.
- Customized management training programs according to specific organizational needs, resulting in greater relevance and application for trainees.
- Managed multiple training projects concurrently, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality content within budget constraints.
- Evaluated participant progress through regular assessments, providing constructive feedback to drive continuous improvement in performance.
- Trained new hires to perform cross-training exercises with experienced workers.
- Coordinated and prioritized required training courses for Type employees.
Hotel Indraprastha
Sr. Manager Operation cum Design Manager
11.2001 - 11.2002
Job overview
- Company Overview: Hotel Indraprastha is one of the many properties of ITDC (Indian Tourism Development Corporation), which is the leading chain in the hospitality industry in India.
- I am currently heading the Design and Interior upkeep and refurnishing and refurbishing department of the unit, reporting to the General Manager.
- To maintain the property of 558 rooms to its best at all times.
- Effectively manage from staff strength of 125 workers and 15 supervisors.
- To carry out interior changes from time to time in order to enhance the property to THREE STAR category.
- Large improvement in the overall look, scheme and décor of public areas and rooms.
- Considerable improvement in the upkeep and outlook of the hotel by bringing in the concept of interior decoration.
- Staff trained to give stock services in the budget hotel.
- No industrial problem till date, discipline of the highest order.
- Hotel Indraprastha is one of the many properties of ITDC (Indian Tourism Development Corporation), which is the leading chain in the hospitality industry in India.
Hotel Pondicherry Ashok
Deputy Manager (Interiors and resident Operation)
08.2000 - 10.2001
Job overview
- To ensure the best quality of grandeur with upkeep and maximize guest satisfaction & to ensure the smooth functioning of all departments of the hotel.
- Being a three star hotel the overall in-charge of running all the areas and departments of the hotel satisfactorily & complaint free.
- Handling of in house Decoration and designing, handling day-to-day changes with the need and in house coordination at Pondicherry Ashok.
- Considerable improvement in general presentability and remarkable increase in guest satisfaction.
- With the guests to ensure that they are satisfied and therefore there was a great increase of corporate in-house business.
- Total redoing i.e. refurbishing of the bar and restaurant, which received accolades from all over.
- Active utilizing of crafts and artisans of the Pondicherry to revive and reintroduce old dying tradition.
Hotel Airport Ashok
Manager International flight Kitchen
08.1996 - 08.2000
Job overview
- Streamlining flight catering and ensuring complaint free domestic and international airlines catering.
- Ensuring international standards of upkeep in the flight kitchen for international as well as domestic flights.
- Catering to VVIP flights like that of the Prime Minister and first lady of the USA Mrs. Hillary Clinton.
- There was a considerable decrease in any sort of complaints in regards to flight kitchen operations.
- Active coordination with Indian Airlines, Air- India, Aeroflot, Jet Airways, NEPC Airlines, Thai Airlines enhanced the general increase in business of the IFK.
- Utmost care and specifications were attended to in all the VIP flights winning accolades from the dignitaries thereby.
Hotel Jaipur Ashok
Food Divisions Manager
01.1992 - 01.1996
Job overview
- The overall food and Beverage operations outlet refurbishing and thematic menu card and interior designing was totally done and stream lined there by increasing business and making the department complaint free.
- The menu cards designing alongwith service gears were redone and the sales increased, as there was greater quality thematic service available to the guests.
Hotel Varanasi Ashok
Rooms division Manager
01.1989 - 01.1992
Job overview
- Maintaining and running and designing the 84-room hotel along with banquet hall, restaurant cum coffee shop and bar were the utmost priorities.
- The hotel was competing with the Taj Ganges and Clark Varanasi and stood out and its quality and was adjudged the best hotel of the town.
- The hotel’s three flours and restaurants and banquet hall were refurbished and redone tastefully to the liking of the guests.
Air India
Cabin Crew
01.1987 - 12.1988
Job overview
- Improved teamwork among crew members by actively participating in debriefings and sharing constructive feedback after each flight.
- Followed company regulations and rules to promote safe environment for travelers and employees.
- Managed challenging situations calmly and professionally, such as handling unruly passengers or addressing flight delays.
- Optimized passenger experience by proactively identifying potential issues and offering solutions to enhance comfort and satisfaction.
- Maintained cabin safety by conducting pre-flight checks, adhering to airline policies, and following emergency procedures when necessary.
- Led safety demonstrations before each flight, educating passengers on proper use of equipment and emergency exits.
- Assisted passengers with special needs, providing personalized care and support throughout the flight.
- Contributed to airline''s reputation for punctuality by swiftly completing cabin preparation tasks prior to passenger boarding.
- Streamlined communication between cabin crew members during flights using established protocols for relaying important information quickly and effectively.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing exceptional in-flight service and addressing passenger concerns promptly.
- Supported smooth meal service operations by accurately taking orders from passengers, serving meals efficiently while accommodating dietary restrictions or allergies upon request.
- Played a key role in achieving company-wide safety goals by participating in regular drills and maintaining up-to-date knowledge on emergency procedures.
- Checked personnel for proper uniforms and safety equipment.
- Stocked cabin with safety guides, airsick bags and cleaning products after every flight.
- Resolved passenger conflicts and medical emergencies during flights.
- Greeted passengers, assisted with carry-on baggage storage and delivered onboard announcements.
ITDC
Management Trainee
01.1987 - 12.1987
Education
Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology & Applied NutritionCalcutta
Graduate in Service Management from Catering Technology & Applied Nutrition
01.1988 - 05.1988
Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology & NutritionNew Delhi
Diploma from Catering Technology & Nutrition
01.1987 - 05.1989
London School of DesignSalisbury, United Kingdom
Training from Design
01.1984 - 05.1984
University Overview
Trained in the Design in United Kingdom under the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme
St. Joseph’s AcademyDehradun, Uttarakhand
High School from English, Math’s, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Economics
01.1975 - 05.1984
University Overview
Indian School Leaving Certificate
Skills
Educational planning strategies Creative facilitation Content design
Innovation design methods
Handicraft skills
Interior design expertise
Initiating engagement actions
strategic design
Effective communication
Customer relations
Staff development program
Empowerment strategy
Infrastructure design
Visual design
Craft program design
Fashion consultant
Strategic goals
Process improvement
Workflow optimization
Group coordination
Knowledge acquisition
design layout
Visual design skills
Graphic design
Design
Interests
Music
Reading
Gardening
Painting
Personal Information
- Current CTC: Can be discussed on request
- Expected Salary: Negotiable
- Date of Birth: 05/02/65
- Nationality: Indian
- Marital Status: Married
Accomplishments
UNESCO Art for Life project implementation traveling to remote parts of West Bengal India and development of rural hub based ancient crafts from the grassroots to bring it into the International arena
Winner of United Nations Essay on Environmental Issues and consequences of pollution and climate change.
Timeline
Textile Merchandising Consultant
Avishya Trading Pvt Ltd
08.2023 - 03.2025
Consultant Design N Market Linkage Social Media
Rimil Design Studio
08.2022 - 09.2023
Design and Textile Sourcing Consultant
Shreedha by Doel
11.2020 - 05.2022
Sourcing Coordinator cum Design Consultant
Discovered.us
09.2019 - 09.2020
Sourcing Coordinator – Merchandiser and Design Consultant
Novica- In Association with National Geography
08.2015 - 07.2018
Freelancer Consultant
UNESCO – Art For Life Project For West Bengal
05.2013 - 07.2015
Consultant Modules Expert Cum Trainer
Frankfinn Institute of Air Hostess Training
11.2004 - 01.2012
Sr. Manager Operation cum Design Manager
Hotel Indraprastha
11.2001 - 11.2002
Deputy Manager (Interiors and resident Operation)
Hotel Pondicherry Ashok
08.2000 - 10.2001
Manager International flight Kitchen
Hotel Airport Ashok
08.1996 - 08.2000
Food Divisions Manager
Hotel Jaipur Ashok
01.1992 - 01.1996
Rooms division Manager
Hotel Varanasi Ashok
01.1989 - 01.1992
Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology & Applied Nutrition
Graduate in Service Management from Catering Technology & Applied Nutrition
01.1988 - 05.1988
Cabin Crew
Air India
01.1987 - 12.1988
Management Trainee
ITDC
01.1987 - 12.1987
Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology & Nutrition
Diploma from Catering Technology & Nutrition
01.1987 - 05.1989
London School of Design
Training from Design
01.1984 - 05.1984
St. Joseph’s Academy
High School from English, Math’s, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Economics
01.1975 - 05.1984