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Akshay Gurnani

Co-Founder, CEO, Schbang | Impact India 30 Under 30 | LinkedIN Top 25 Startups '21 & Top Voice '22 | TEDx Speaker | Taught 3000+ Students | Angel Investor

Professional Background

Akshay Gurnani's remarkable career spans over 15 years, showcasing his evolution from a budding Financial Analyst into a dynamic entrepreneur and a leading figure in the digital marketing arena. His journey began unexpectedly with a 6-month role at TresVista Financial Services as a Financial Analyst, but it was his subsequent transition to the marketing field that truly defined his career path. Joining FoxyMoron, a prominent digital marketing agency, Akshay climbed the ranks with impressive speed. Within just two years, he had advanced from a content writer/account executive to the team lead, demonstrating his leadership skills by managing a team of 15 and collaborating with renowned brands.

At only 23 years of age, Akshay took on the significant responsibility of heading the North India division at FoxyMoron, making him one of the youngest business heads in India. His ability to drive success in this highly competitive field became evident through his innovative strategies and commitment to excellence.

In 2015, Akshay co-founded Schbang, a fully independent, bootstrapped start-up that has since made a considerable impact in the digital marketing landscape. Under his leadership as Chief Executive Officer, Schbang has partnered with a diverse range of domestic and international brands, including industry giants like the Godrej Group, Pidilite, Castrol, and L’Oreal. The company has flourished, growing to a talented team of over 1,200 individuals with offices in Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and recent expansions into London and Amsterdam. This impressive growth has garnered Schbang recognition, including its listing in LinkedIn India’s Top Startups List 2021, #12 on Brand Equity's list of Top Digital Agencies in India 2019, and as part of Financial Times High Growth Companies of APAC 2020.

Education and Achievements

Akshay Gurnani's educational background has significantly contributed to his success in the business world. He holds a Master's degree in Commerce with a focus on Business/Commerce from the esteemed University of Mumbai. Additionally, he completed his Bachelor of Management Studies (BMS) at H.R. College of Commerce & Economics, a foundation that fortuitously prepared him for a thriving career in digital strategy and management. Prior to his college education, Akshay also attended Greenlawns School in Worli, which undoubtedly played a role in shaping his early ambitions.

Akshay's achievements are numerous and commendable. He has received several prestigious accolades throughout his career, including the Social Samosa 30 Under 30 Award and the Impact Magazine 30 Under 30 recognition. His expertise in content marketing is widely acknowledged, as he was listed among the ‘Top 50 Content Marketing Professionals in India.’ These accolades not only reinforce his standing in the digital marketing community but also serve as an inspiration for many young professionals aiming to make their mark in the industry.

Personal Interests and Community Engagement

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Akshay Gurnani is an individual driven by passion and creativity. He is an avid photographer, specializing in street, wildlife, and baby photography. His dedication to photography has earned him numerous awards, with his work proudly displayed in various national exhibitions. A significant highlight of his photography career was winning the Canon PhotoMarathon in 2015, showcasing his talent and artistic eye.

In addition to his artistic pursuits, Akshay is passionately committed to education and mentorship. Over the last seven years, he has conducted talks and workshops at various educational institutions across India, educating and inspiring over 3,000 individuals. His engaging speaking style and ability to connect with his audience culminated in an invitation to the prestigious TEDx stage, where he shared his inspiring journey of self-discovery, drawing an insightful parallel between life's journeys and the thrill of finding a tiger in the jungle.

As an angel investor, Akshay is actively involved in nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs. He has invested in various start-ups like Kaatil (Smerc Foods & Beverages), flutrr, and WickedGüd, providing invaluable guidance to fledgling businesses pursuing their dreams. In addition to these ventures, he is currently working on launching a bespoke wildlife experience company, showcasing his passion for nature and adventure.

Akshay Gurnani's journey is a testament to the impact of passion, dedication, and the belief that age should not dictate one's ability to achieve greatness. His impressive achievements in the digital marketing industry, coupled with his commitment to education and entrepreneurship, make him an inspiring figure for aspiring professionals and established leaders alike. As he continues to innovate and expand his ventures, Akshay is undoubtedly a valuable contributor to the business community and beyond.

Related Questions

How did Akshay Gurnani navigate the transition from a Financial Analyst to a leading entrepreneur in the digital marketing space?
What inspired Akshay to co-found Schbang and how has it influenced the digital marketing landscape in India?
In what ways has Akshay Gurnani's educational background contributed to his success in the business sector?
How does Akshay balance his professional commitments with his passion for photography and education?
What lessons can aspiring entrepreneurs learn from Akshay Gurnani's journey in building a successful start-up?
Akshay Gurnani
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Location

Mumbai, Maharashtra, India