The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Rohtak hosted its Management Conference 2026 on October 24th, bringing together more than 50 industry leaders, business executives, and academic experts to discuss the changing demands of the business world.

Held under the theme “The New Rules of Business: Bridging Academia and Industry in an Age of Constant Reinvention”, the conference provided a platform to examine how businesses and management institutions can respond to technological developments, evolving markets and changing workplace expectations.

More than 600 postgraduate management students participated, gaining an opportunity to engage with professionals and understand the challenges facing modern organisations.

Key Discussions at the Conference

The conference featured four panel discussions addressing important business and workforce developments:

• Business strategy: Companies are moving towards collaborative business ecosystems that prioritise customer needs, partnerships and shared value creation
• Financial resilience: Discussions highlighted the importance of risk management, flexible planning and financial preparedness amid economic uncertainty
• Artificial intelligence and work: Panellists examined how AI can complement human capabilities, with continuous learning and adaptability emerging as important workforce priorities
• Emerging careers: The discussions emphasised problem-solving, curiosity and digital skills as essential qualities for professionals entering the changing job market

IIM Rohtak Director Dheeraj Sharma highlighted the importance of balancing stability with adaptability. He encouraged students to develop accountability, discipline and commitment while making the most of their interactions with industry professionals.

Strengthening Industry-Academia Collaboration

The conference also highlighted the growing importance of aligning management education with industry requirements. Interactions between students, academics and business leaders can help bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical workplace expectations.

IIM Rohtak plans to compile the discussions into a concept paper containing recommendations for industry professionals, policymakers and academic institutions.

For the management education sector, the conference underlines the need to prepare future managers for technological change, business uncertainty and evolving career opportunities.

EducationToday and TopEducationNews follow developments in management education, industry collaboration and the skills shaping India's future workforce.