Cultivating Culture: Key To Talent Differentiation & Impact

What is your vision for HR profession, and what transformative role can it play in the success of a company? 

HR profession's pivotal role in shaping a company's success is undeniable, and in my view focusing on two key areas will drive most impact in the future:

• Building Talent Differentiation through Culture: In the evolving landscape of talent acquisition and retention, creating a unique and compelling organisational culture will be the cornerstone of success. Recognising the diverse expectations of different generations, particularly the distinct needs of Gen Z, requires a tailored approach. 
• Tech and AI Enabled Automation: The future of HR lies in leveraging technology and AI for automating transactional processes, allowing HR professionals to focus on strategic initiatives paves the way for an exceptional employee experience. This shift towards technology-driven HR not only streamlines processes but also positions HR as a strategic partner. 

How did you get interested in the HR field, and what have been some major milestones in your journey?  

In 2014, my exploration on Quora led me to a noteworthy insight from the Group CHRO of a major MNC regarding the future of HR. Although not entirely comprehensible, it ignited my curiosity, prompting a deeper exploration of the field. Recognising its potential as an avenue to leverage my strengths for learning and contribution, I embarked on a path into HR.

My subsequent experiences in consulting with Aon and Deloitte have been professionally enriching. Collaborating with esteemed leaders, both internally and externally, has significantly shaped my journey. A pivotal milestone arose in 2019 when I played a key role being part of the team that established Deloitte's Rewards practice. This initiative not only allowed for collaboration with outstanding professionals but also contributed to building a reputable presence for both myself and the brand in the dynamic rewards space, providing value to our clients.

How should HR professionals themselves envision their contribution to the world of work?  

HR professionals are instrumental in shaping the future landscape of work. Their pivotal contribution encompasses strategic roles as HR architects, technological innovators, leaders in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and champions of the employee experience. Crucially, they play a vital role in aligning business priorities with talent requirements to cultivate a positive, inclusive and high-performance workplace.

Kindly share some path-breaking initiatives by your team in brief. 

• Implementing Agile Performance Management: Spearheaded the transition from traditional annual performance reviews to agile performance management systems, emphasising continuous feedback and forward-focused career development, moving beyond conventional rating scales.
• Rewards Setup: Established the rewards team from the ground up, crafting foundational processes, policies and documents. The created framework serves as the cornerstone for the function's growth, ensuring a lasting impact on organisational rewards strategies.