Today we’d like to introduce you to Sauraj Patil
Hi Sauraj, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My journey is a blend of creativity, entrepreneurship, and adaptability. Growing up in Mumbai, India, I came from a family dedicated to the government sector, with little exposure to the worlds of music or business. However, I developed a deep passion for both, which guided my path.
During my undergraduate years, while studying engineering, I discovered a love for playing the guitar. This creative passion aligned with an entrepreneurial drive, leading me to join a music company as a Sales and Operations Manager. This role opened my eyes to the dynamics of the music retail and eCommerce industries, and it inspired me to launch my own music retail business in Mumbai. Over the years, I expanded this venture to include three physical stores and an eCommerce platform that served customers globally. Simultaneously, as a guitarist, I had the opportunity to perform alongside some of India’s biggest artists, touring internationally and balancing my dual roles as a musician and entrepreneur.
Seeking to expand my skill set, I pursued an MBA at Boston University, graduating with high honors. This pivot allowed me to bring my entrepreneurial experience into a broader business context, enriching my understanding of strategy, analysis, and leadership. Today, after completing my MBA, I’ve transitioned into the tech sales sector, where I apply my analytical and strategic skills in a new, fast-paced industry. This latest step has taught me that success is about staying adaptable, embracing continuous learning, and remaining committed to both personal and professional growth.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road has definitely had its twists and turns. Pursuing a career in music, especially as a guitarist, is inherently challenging. It’s a field where stability can be elusive, and with constant travel for tours and performances, life becomes a balancing act. For every successful gig or collaboration, there were many late nights of practice, endless networking, and handling the unpredictability of the entertainment industry.
Building my music retail business from scratch was another demanding phase. I poured myself into establishing the brand, securing suppliers, and scaling operations. It was a round-the-clock effort, especially in the beginning when I was a one-person team managing both the creative and business sides.
Moving to the U.S. in my early 30s to pursue an MBA was another big step that came with its own set of challenges. Starting a new chapter in a new country, adjusting to a rigorous academic schedule, and adapting to a new culture all tested my resilience and adaptability.
But looking back, I can genuinely say that I’ve loved every part of the struggle. Each challenge taught me something invaluable, building my resilience and expanding my skill set in ways I couldn’t have foreseen. All of these experiences, though difficult, were stepping stones that brought me to where I am today, and I wouldn’t trade them for anything.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
In my current role as a Business Development Representative (BDR) for a biotech firm, my work revolves around establishing and nurturing relationships with both new and major clients in the B2B space. I specialize in building connections that foster long-term partnerships, and I take pride in my ability to understand each client’s unique needs, providing tailored solutions that align with their business goals.
With my background in entrepreneurship, I bring a unique perspective to the table—balancing analytical insights with creative problem-solving skills honed from years in the music industry and business ownership. This combination helps me connect with clients in a meaningful way, setting me apart in the highly competitive biotech field.
What I’m most proud of is my adaptability and the relationships I’ve cultivated along the way. From launching a music business to pivoting into tech sales, my journey has taught me to embrace each role with dedication and resilience. It’s this versatility that allows me to contribute value beyond the conventional, ensuring my clients see me not just as a BDR, but as a trusted advisor.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have a circle of support that has made all the difference on my journey. My wife deserves endless credit—she’s been a constant source of encouragement and strength, especially during this new chapter in the U.S. Her belief in me has helped me navigate the challenges of moving to a new country, pursuing my MBA, and now stepping into the tech sales industry.
My parents have also had an “invisible hand” in my journey, quietly instilling in me values of resilience and integrity, which have become the backbone of everything I do. Although they weren’t physically present for every milestone, their influence has been a guiding force.
My friends, mentors, and even MBA classmates have played invaluable roles as well. My mentors provided guidance when I needed clarity, while my friends kept me grounded through every high and low. Even my classmates were a huge source of support and understanding, helping me navigate the intense MBA experience with camaraderie and insight.
All of these individuals have, in their own way, been instrumental to my success. Their collective support has not only helped me build my business and career but also reminded me of the importance of community, no matter where I am.
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