A Glass of Orange Juice with Vinaydutt

Ever wanted to meet an Ironman finisher with a day job? You’ll have to get up early! Let’s follow Vinaydutt through his day as Senior Manager Customer Service in Pune at Fresenius Kabi India.

On most days, it is still dark when Vinaydutt wakes up and gets ready for the day: While most people in Pune, India, are still sleeping, he is drinking a glass of orange juice, putting on his training gear, and leaving the house by 5 a.m. “Every morning before work, I go swimming, jogging and cycling to keep my training up,” he explains. “I completed my first-ever Ironman competition on October 8th this year at the age of 52.. Having tasted success, I am planning to repeat the feat on a bigger platform!”

After his training session, Vinaydutt starts his day at the Fresenius Kabi office at 8 a.m. His discipline as a sportsman helps him in his daily work: “As a manager in the Customer Service team supporting our customers’ needs, my days can get chaotic. That’s why I create a work profile each morning which I complete by evening. Nothing gets carried over to the next day.” In a team of four people handling order processing, billing and support, organization is key. “Helping our customers right when they need it is our contribution to Fresenius Kabi’s purpose of caring for life”, he says.

“We make sure to keep focus, but also take our breaks together, have lunch together,” Vinaydutt explains. He also fosters this spirit of community outside of his team. “Currently I am guiding two colleagues for the next Ironman competition and Marathon events. I believe I am the first person in our Indian branch to do it and everyone congratulated me. You work hard here, but you can also follow your passion. This is why I am still here after almost 24 years!”

Vinaydutt: Senior Manager Customer Service Fresenius Kabi India

Want to know more about Vinaydutt?

We asked him a few questions

What does success mean for you? 

Success is not a one-day victory. For me, success means work-life balance. If I can complete my daily work schedule within the stipulated office hours, do my daily workout, spend time with my family and friends, and end the day in a good mood, then that’s success for me, which I try to emulate every day. 

What did you learn at Fresenius Kabi? 

The best thing I learned at Fresenius Kabi is that one should respect colleagues at every level. This is because what you receive in return is something that brings joy every day, making the work atmosphere nothing but sheer fun.

What is special about working with your team?

 I believe I have the best team, comprised of loving, caring, and understanding individuals. Since we share mutual respect and maintain open communication, it makes us one of the most successful teams.

What does a typical workday look like for you?

On any workday, I set my priorities well in advance for both myself and my team. We make it a point to jointly discuss any forthcoming challenges and work on the solutions. That's why I feel a sense of accomplishment at the end of the day.

What is your favorite quote, motto or personal mantra?

Personal Mantra: Smile, the only mantra that I know …. which works.

What is the most important thing you have learned in the last five years?

I have learned that maintaining a good work-life balance is very important. Balancing these two aspects allows you to pursue your passions, making life enjoyable.

Where is the best place you have travelled to and why?

The best place I have traveled to is a local hill station, where, despite lacking basic facilities, the people possess an incredible energy. What impressed me most about this place was the residents' happiness and resilience. They were always smiling and content. I learned a lot about their culture and even picked up some fitness tips.

In which moments are you the happiest?

I am happiest when I feel I have done justice in achieving the targets on my bucket list. Each task completed from the bucket list is a confirmation that I am on the right track.