Visionary Women CHROs to Watch in 2024

1. www.womenworldindia.com W O R L D VOL. 07 | ISSUE 02 | 2024 Women at the Helm The Impact of Women CHROs Shaping HR's Future Transforming Workplaces Women CHROs Leading the Way and Driving Change A Champion for Progress – An Industry Leader Shaping the Future of Success

3. Build your business that you love — and endlessly interesting to you. success around something something that is inherently

4. Equally Respected, Equally Lived! A s Chief Human Resources Officer roles evolve, Women World India’s ‘Visionary Women CHROs to Watch in 2024,’ take organizations into a new era of employee experience, inclusion, and strategic talent management. In the present, the leaders are no more managing their organization's traditional HR functions but drive company culture, champion diversity, and align talent strategies with business objectives for a sustainable future of their organizations. Such women are exemplars of HR innovation and awareness that can navigate the complexities of organizational landscapes.

5. New-age modern woman CHROs are changing the way leading in HR is understood. They bring a perspective to the challenges organizations face by implementing human capital initiatives as part of business strategies, spearheading policy matters like people-first policies, and inclusively developing work cultures. Considering the changing nature of the workforce especially in hybrid and remote environments, her prowess becomes extremely valuable. Its approach will not only attract and retain top talent but also foster the environment in which the people who work there feel appreciated and challenged. They are upscaling employee care and satisfaction through psychological welfare, work-life balance, and career development at work. setting companies up to have a meaningful social impact. In the fast digital world, the visionary HR has the power of technology in transforming HR practices in itself. They streamline processes and work better with improved efficiencies while coming up with valuable insights that are influential to business decisions through advanced HR tech for recruitment, engagement, and performance tracking. Their data-driven approach to human resources helps make the most accurate decisions as long as they are impactful and aligned with organizational goals. Visionary women CHROs of 2024 are no longer just HR leaders. They have emerged as key strategic change agents who transform the workplace. With empathy, innovation, and a focus on inclusivity, these leaders are reshaping culture at work, making them exemplary HR leaders in making powerful statements on the future of business. These are certainly the women leaders to watch as they plot a path for an engaged, diverse, and forward-thinking workforce. Women CHROs play a specific role leading DEI. By understanding the value of diversity in the workforce, they promote unbiased recruitment processes and transparent career progression methodologies. Their initiatives facilitate an inclusive culture that makes everybody believe they belong, providing an ideal basis for collaboration and productivity. With DEI positioned as a larger business strategy rather than the act of checking boxes, such leaders are Gaurav PR Wankhade

6. STORY C ver 08 A Champion for Progress – Sheena Rajan An Industry Leader Shaping the Future of Success Articles Women at the Helm The Impact of Women CHROs Shaping HR's Future Transforming Workplaces Women CHROs Leading the Way and Driving Change 20 26

7. Profiles Content 18 Taranjit Kaur Saini A Collabora?ve HR Leader Team Working for Talent Management 24 Sonal Soni Swimming Diligently Against the Tide with Choice, Tac?ulness, and Context 30 Vaishnavi Bharadwaj Passionately Exploring Human Facets on a Learning Journey of HR

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9. Featuring Company Description Sapna Madaan, Head Human Resources Development Sapna Madaan, based in New Delhi, DL, IN, is currently a Head Human Resources Development at Exotic India. Exotic India A great personality, Sheena Rajan is a highly accomplished HR leader with a 27-year career spanning diverse industries, including hospitality, energy, manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals. Flamingo BPO Technology Solutions Ltd Sheena Rajan, Co-founder and CHRO Sonal Soni, Cedar Management Consulting International Sonal is currently leading Learning, Development, and Engagement at Cedar Management Consulting International. Learning, Development, and Engagement With over eight years of HR experience in the IT field, Taranajit is associated with CitiusTech in the capacity of Deputy Manager. Taranjit Kaur Saini, Deputy Manager, HRM CitiusTech Vaishnavi is a Senior Executive in the HR department (Corp Office) of Sandhar gaining insights into working in an amazing place to work. Vaishnavi Bharadwaj, Senior Executive Human Resources Sandhar Technologies Ltd

10. A Champion for Progress – An Industry Leader Shaping the Future of Success

12. Visionary Women CHROs to Watch in 2024 ossessing all the hallmarks of a P professional, boasts an impressive 27-years career across diverse industries like hospitality, energy, manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals. Renowned for her sharp business sense and lasting impact, she’s a true HR leader with extensive experience. her parents held for her. She transitioned into secretarial roles from these humble beginnings, ultimately becoming a secretary. In the hospitality sector, where she joined around 2009, HR was traditionally viewed as limited to payroll and recruitment. She challenged this perception by introducing initiatives that fostered employee engagement and recognition. true leader, Sheena Rajan, a highly motivated HR To further her career, she pursued a secretarial course, leading her to a role as a secretary to the Managing Director at Pennzoil (Part of Shell India). Her predecessor, who held the position for nearly a decade, left a significant legacy to follow. Despite the company’s small size and limited organizational structure, she saw this as an opportunity and actively sought to expand her responsibilities beyond the typical duties of a secretary. One of her first projects was organizing an annual employee function. Despite initial reservations and limitations, Sheena’s goal was to create a sense of community and fun. She persevered in her mission to showcase how HR could contribute to business success by fostering a positive workplace culture. This journey from a typist to an influential HR leader exemplifies how talent and dedication can pave the way for meaningful and impactful career advancements. Sheena is the Co-founder and CHRO, Head - Payroll Management Business of Flamingo BPO Technology Solutions Ltd and board of Director for FBTS Executive Search Pvt. Ltd. Sheena’s impressive academic background includes an MBA in HR, a Master’s in Leadership Science, a postgraduate qualification in Psychology, and a certification in Neuro-Linguistic Programming. Her proven track record complements this academic strength as a global leader, and she is admired for her excellent people management, strong work ethic, and change management expertise. Sheena began contributing ideas to streamline and improve HR processes. Her enthusiasm and innovative suggestions, such as developing checklists and enhancing filing systems, caught the attention of the HR Director. Recognizing her potential, he encouraged her to take on more, including conducting interviews. This sparked a passion for HR within her, leading the HR Director to suggest a career path. The Paradigm Shift Sheena reflects on her journey, highlighting a significant shift in her approach to human resources and leadership. She describes the need to adapt her management style across various industries and organizational cultures, from a corporate environment like Shell to settings with more diverse employee backgrounds. She emphasizes the importance of tailoring HR practices to fit the industry and the people involved. Sheena’s motto, “Build a strong foundation with the bricks that others throw on you,” reflects her ability to overcome challenges and transform them into opportunities for growth. Her leadership style emphasizes collaboration and community, breaking away from the traditional, aloof leader model. She says, “I’m not a leader who dictates from an office; I’m known for being alongside my team and working together.” She’s more than just an HR professional; she’s a transformative leader who constantly pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in HR and beyond. However, the lack of formal HR qualifications presented a challenge. After a decade of leaving studies, she pursued a diploma in HR while still working. Her interest in the subject flourished, and she completed a master’s degree in HR. This dedication and natural affinity for the field, combined with the HR Director, Mr. K.G. Satheesan’s belief in her potential, earned her the HR Executive position. In the hospitality sector, where she worked until 2013, Sheena implemented lasting changes in induction programs, policies, and processes. Her contributions were so impactful that the policies she established are still in place today, carrying her signature and legacy. Sheena’s journey in HR was transformative. After working at Shell, reporting to only one HR leader, she ventured into leadership roles across various organizations. Whether in family-owned businesses or startups, she implemented significant changes. Talent Always Shines Through She also discusses her experience in family-driven organizations, which often involve complex dynamics with relatives holding positions of influence without necessarily understanding the Sheena’s South Indian background strongly emphasized typing jobs as a path to stability, so she began her career as a typist—a primary aspiration

13. business. In such environments, Sheena learned to balance professional expertise with the nuances of family relations, fostering a more HR-driven and professional culture while maintaining harmony with family members. This approach has earned her lasting respect and personal connections, and she has even been invited to family functions. Sheena’s story illustrates how adapting to different organizational contexts and maintaining a flexible, professional outlook can lead to enduring success in HR. She dreams of continuing to become a Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), showcasing her dedication to the field.

15. Flying to Foreign Shores grown sons back in India. This shift led her to leave her position as CHRO and seek new opportunities closer to home. understand the importance of HR in building a cohesive and vibrant organizational culture. The perception of HR has shifted from being merely administrative to being a cornerstone of organizational soul and culture. Despite the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation, Sheena believes that HR’s dynamic nature cannot be replicated by technology. HR involves complex human emotions and interactions that require a nuanced understanding and empathy that machines cannot provide. Sheena’s career took a remarkable turn when she transitioned from Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) to Director of Singapore Operations. She quickly became a trusted leader in this role, profoundly impacting the organization and its people. Her influence transformed colleagues from novices into accomplished professionals, fostering strong bonds that made them regard her as a family member. With her sons now independent professionals, Sheena was free of personal responsibilities and ready to explore new ventures. She began consulting and delved into recruitment, refusing to sit idle. An unexpected meeting with Adarsh, the CEO and co- founder of Flamingo Infinite, led to an exciting new chapter. Sheena became the co-founder of a BPO (Business Process Outsourcing) company, expanding her career in an entirely new direction. Her journey led her to Dubai, where she faced a different challenge: managing a predominantly labour- oriented workforce, with 70-80% of employees in labour roles. Sheena’s efforts in Dubai were transformative; she successfully reduced labour-related issues, earning the “Taqdeer Award” it’s a recognition from the UAE government for her significant contributions. She acknowledges that AI will transform many jobs and create uncertainty but remains optimistic that new opportunities will emerge. The fear of job displacement due to technological advances is reminiscent of the initial anxiety when computers were introduced, yet new roles and industries flourished. HR professionals will continue to be critical in navigating these changes by understanding and addressing employees' concerns. Starting with modest office spaces, Flamingo Infinite has quickly grown, acquiring two companies—one in recruitment and another in digital services. With Sheena as a key figure alongside seven other CXOs, many of whom hail from Tata, the company is on a promising path to becoming the next unicorn. Sheena is thriving in her new role and finds herself in a happy and fulfilling space in her career. Her exceptional work in Dubai garnered several accolades, including the prestigious “Best HR in Dubai” award—where she stood out as the only Indian recipient—and the “Best Indian Woman Leader in UAE” award. These global recognitions highlighted her immense contributions and further solidified her reputation as a leading HR professional. Sheena’s experience during the COVID-19 pandemic underscores the importance of HR in maintaining employee morale and well-being. She recounts how her organization ensured zero casualties, supported employees’ mental health, and maintained job security by offering allowances, bonuses, and timely salaries. These actions alleviated employees’ anxieties and fostered loyalty, reducing attrition to an impressive 1%. The Shifting Trends in HR Sheena reflects on the evolving role of human resources (HR) and the transformative trends reshaping the field. Initially, HR was synonymous with administrative tasks like timekeeping and was often relegated to roles like payroll and recruitment. Historically referred to as “personal management,” the department’s primary responsibilities were limited. The accounts department frequently handled payroll duties due to their confidential nature but has since been integrated back into HR as organizations recognized its crucial role in shaping company culture. Having returned from Dubai, Sheena’s experiences abroad have opened new opportunities and adventures, setting the stage for a promising future. Looking ahead, Sheena emphasizes the need for HR professionals to embody human qualities, engage with employees personally, and understand ground realities. While AI may handle technical aspects of HR, the essence of HR will always lie in its human touch, making it indispensable in creating and maintaining a thriving workplace. Back into the Homeland In 2023, Sheena returned to India, driven by homesickness and the growing trend of ‘Emiratization’ a policy favouring hiring nationals over expatriates. Her time abroad had left her feeling isolated, with her three Sheena highlights a paradigm shift where companies increasingly

16. Her Thoughts on Gender Equality Sheena reflects on gender equality, addressing the nuanced dynamics and challenges women face in professional environments. She clarifies that she does not identify as a feminist in the traditional sense but recognizes the complexities surrounding gender roles and expectations. She emphasizes that once women step into the professional world, they should not be seen as needing special treatment simply due to their gender. She believes men and women can and should perform equally in their roles without relying on gender-based sympathy or advantages. Sheena acknowledges the existence of policies like the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) that aim to protect women in the workplace, which she supports, understanding the vulnerabilities and sensitivities that women may experience. However, she notes that despite these protections, there remains a significant disparity in pay and recognition between men and women, even at high levels of leadership. She shares her experiences as Leaders in Strategic position and observes male counterparts with less experience and qualifications, earning significantly higher salaries. She stresses that women have to work much harder to achieve the same recognition and compensation as men, and they are often unfairly judged or stereotyped. In her career, Sheena has witnessed women being underestimated and their efforts undervalued, often attributed to favouritism rather than merit. She points out that in board meetings, where she was usually the sole female member, she noticed a tendency to typecast and overlook women’s contributions. She urges a shift in

18. perspective, advocating for a workplace where women are judged by their abilities and contributions rather than their gender or perceived roles. Ultimately, Sheena calls for a broader change in how gender equality is approached in the corporate world. She highlights the need for a shift away from traditional stereotypes. She urges men and women to recognize and respect each other’s professional capabilities, moving beyond outdated perceptions that limit opportunities and reinforce inequality.

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20. Visionary Women CHROs to Watch in 2024 T aranjit comes with over eight years of HR experi- ence in the IT field. She is currently associated with CitiusTech in the capacity of Deputy Manager. Previously, she had a long stint with NSEIT, a subsidiary of the National Stock Exchange of India. Taranjit believes it’s very important to take pride in what we do. She is glad that she participated in this event. HRAI is a very well-recognized HR forum. She is thrilled and humbled at the same time to be part of this list. She has received much support from her superiors, peers, and mentors. They ensured that she gained hands-on experience through various initiatives at work. Taranjit further believes in collaboration and teamwork. She has always shared her input with others. Even if she may not be part of the projects. She welcomes other team members inputs because she believes that diverse views and perspective always help in having successful outcomes. Throughout her career, Taranjit has been part of key strategic HR initiatives. Like designing and executing various talent management programs and engagement programs to improve the overall employee experience outcomes. She has a Diploma in Human Resources from Welingkar Institute. She has worked in various HR functions. Taranjit started her career at the grassroots level. This experience is handy for her whenever she has to design and execute any new HR initiative. She can relate the expected outcomes of HR initiatives and their impact on the employee. This innate ability gives her the insights to design and execute successful HR initiatives. She has been a recipient of various internal Reward and Recognition schemes at the organizations she has worked, acknowledg- ing her significant contribution. Taranjit believes that it’s important to set powerful goals. And have faith and belief to achieve the same. Success is not necessarily a destination but a learning journey. Where you pick up new skills and learnings on the way. She always views failures as learning experiences, too. As you will know, what did not work out. 18 | www.womenworldindia.com July, 2024

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24. Women CHROs Leading the Way and Driving Change T he role of the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) has evolved significantly over the years, transitioning from a purely administrative function to a strategic business partner. In the ever-evolving dynamic corporate landscape, women CHROs are at the forefront of transformative change, redefining workplace cultures and driving organizational success. Key areas where women CHROs are making a significant impact include: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): Women CHROs are passionate about creating inclusive workplaces where everyone feels valued and respected. They are driving initiatives to increase diversity in the workforce, eliminate bias, and create equitable opportunities for all employees. Today, women CHROs are at the forefront of this transformation, reshaping workplaces and driving positive change. Their unique perspectives, leadership styles, and focus on people are redefining HR practices and creating high-performance organizations. Their distinctive guidance, tactics, and innovative approaches are not only reshaping HR practices but also setting new benchmarks for the industry. Employee Experience: By prioritizing employee well- being, engagement, and development, women CHROs are creating high-performance cultures. They are focused on building positive employee experiences, from recruitment to retirement, to enhance job satisfaction and retention. Digital Transformation: Women CHROs are at the forefront of leveraging technology to transform HR functions. They are using data analytics to drive decision- making, automating routine tasks, and implementing innovative HR solutions to improve efficiency and employee engagement. A New Era of Leadership Women CHROs bring a distinctive approach to leadership that is characterized by empathy, collaboration, and a strong focus on people. They are adept at building relationships, fostering a culture of inclusivity, and prioritizing employee well-being. This human-centric approach is essential in today's rapidly changing business landscape, where talent is the ultimate competitive advantage. Talent Acquisition and Development: Building a strong talent pipeline is crucial for organizational success. Women CHROs are focused on attracting and retaining top talent by creating compelling employer brands, developing robust 22 | www.womenworldindia.com July, 2024

25. talent development programs, and fostering a culture of continuous learning. collaboration and transparency, fosters a supportive and engaging work environment. This approach not only strengthens team cohesion but also aligns HR strategies with broader business goals, driving sustainable success. Work-Life Balance: Women CHROs understand the importance of work-life balance and are championing initiatives to support employees in managing their personal and professional lives. They are promoting flexible work arrangements, providing access to wellness programs, and creating a supportive work environment. Shaping the Future of Work As advocates for flexible work arrangements and adaptive policies, women CHROs are crucial in navigating the future of work. They champion remote work options, agile performance management systems, and continuous learning opportunities, ensuring that organizations are resilient and adaptable in the face of change. Overcoming Challenges and Inspiring Future Leaders While women CHROs are making significant strides, they still face challenges such as gender bias, work-life balance, and the pressure to deliver results. However, these challenges can be overcome through mentorship, sponsorship, and a strong support network. Women CHROs are pivotal in transforming workplaces through their commitment to inclusion, well-being, innovation, and empathetic leadership. As they continue to break barriers and set new standards, their impact on HR and organizational success is profound. By leading the way and driving change, women CHROs are not just shaping the future of work—they are redefining it. Pioneering Inclusive Cultures Women CHROs are instrumental in promoting diversity and inclusion within organizations. By implementing equitable hiring practices and fostering inclusive policies, they ensure that diverse voices are heard and valued. This commitment to diversity enhances team dynamics, drives creativity, and improves overall company performance. The Road Ahead By sharing their experiences and knowledge, women CHROs can inspire the next generation of HR leaders. Mentoring and sponsoring young women can help them develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed in their careers. Enhancing Employee Engagement and Well-being Understanding the intrinsic link between employee satisfaction and productivity, women CHROs prioritize holistic well-being. They develop comprehensive programs that address mental health, work-life balance, and professional growth. Such initiatives not only boost morale but also reduce turnover, creating a loyal and motivated workforce. In essence, women CHROs are transforming workplaces by creating inclusive, employee-centric, and high-performing organizations. Their leadership is driving positive change and shaping the future of HR. As more women take on leadership roles in HR, we can expect to see even greater progress in building workplaces where people thrive. Leveraging Technology for HR Innovation In an era of digital transformation, women CHROs are adept at integrating advanced technologies into HR processes. They utilize data analytics, AI, and digital platforms to optimize recruitment, streamline operations, and enhance the employee experience. This tech-savvy approach ensures that organizations remain competitive and efficient. Leading with Empathy and Vision Women CHROs bring a blend of empathy and strategic vision to their roles. Their leadership style, characterized by 23 | www.womenworldindia.com July, 2024

26. Visionary Women CHROs to Watch in 2024 W “Which specialization would you want to opt for your masters?” – Marketing. “ hich area did you specialize in while pursuing graduation?” – Finance. has been delivered for people. The Corporate Co-operative Library is one such solution which is a badge of honour, which addressed a peer learning issue without making any major investment. Despite working in the same function for five years, it has been a highly diverse journey. The learning experience ranges from automating the data management and adminis- tration process of L&D, to work measurement of the role of an L&D professional to transition it from data to design. To learn the science of Instructional Design and Training Facilitation to address the learning needs of the organiza- tion. To be able to develop the L&D strategy to capture the learning priorities of the business. To implement org-wide learning management systems. Supporting change manage- ment during people systems implementation. Learning the nuances of knowledge management in a global organiza- tion. To understanding the interface of L&D with other functions in HR. Thereby collaborating with her other HR champions. “Which Specialisation did you finally mention in the University form?” – Human Resource Management. The last answer left many people surprised. This was the first time Sonal listened to her instincts and diligently pursued an area of specialization. There was no going back from this point onwards. “Which function of HR would you want to pursue your live project in?” – Learning and Development. “What makes you pursue a winter internship out of your curriculum?” “What makes you put your final placement at risk?” – An opportunity to explore the Learning & Develop- ment function. This was the second instance where Sonal chose between the stability of a final placement and pursuing an internship in an area where she wanted to explore her interests and test her capabilities. Again, her conviction towards her interest helped her choose the latter. Sonal is currently leading Learning, Development, and Engagement at Cedar Management Consulting Interna- tional since September 2022. Her motto is to take all her learnings from her previous experience. And deliver her best in the context of the organization she’s working with. Implementing practices that align with the stakeholder preferences. With utmost tactfulness. Rather than getting carried away by trends. The reason to share both of these instances is the reason why she is listed in this esteemed list with her HR col- leagues. The conviction for accepting her callings, her inexperience in L&D, and her fear of being able to make it in this role led her on a journey of learning by experiment- ing with the best mentors she could have asked for. The most valuable learning of her career has been – Context over Concepts, Preferences over Practices, and Tactful- ness over Trends. This has been the foundation of all that 24 | www.womenworldindia.com July, 2024

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30. The Impact of Women CHROs Shaping HR's Future T he landscape of human resources is undergoing a transformative shift, with women increasingly taking the reins as Chief Human Resource Officers (CHROs). This evolution is reshaping the function, bringing unique perspectives, and driving innovation. Strong communication and collaboration skills: Women are adept at building relationships and fostering collaboration, leading to improved employee engagement and teamwork. Focus on work-life balance: Women CHROs are more likely to prioritize work-life balance initiatives, recognizing the importance of employee well-being and productivity. The Rise of Women CHROs Diversity and inclusion champions:Women CHROs are passionate about creating inclusive workplaces where everyone feels valued and respected. Historically, HR has been a male-dominated domain. However, in recent years, there has been a surge in the number of women occupying top HR roles. This upward trajectory can be attributed to several factors: Strategic business partners: Women CHROs are demonstrating their ability to align HR strategies with overall business objectives, driving growth and success. Increased emphasis on diversity and inclusion: Organizations are recognizing the importance of diverse leadership and are actively seeking out female talent for senior positions. Shaping the Future of HR Women CHROs are playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of HR. Their leadership is driving key trends such as: Proven leadership abilities: Women have demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, strategic thinking, and a strong focus on people and culture. Digital transformation: Women CHROs are embracing technology to streamline HR processes, enhance employee experiences, and leverage data for informed decision- making. Educational advancements: More women are pursuing higher education and acquiring the necessary qualifications to excel in HR leadership roles. Employee experience: By prioritizing employee well-being, engagement, and development, women CHROs are creating high-performance cultures. The Impact of Women CHROs Women CHROs are bringing a fresh perspective to the HR function, characterized by: Future of work: Women CHROs are at the forefront of navigating the evolving world of work, including remote work, flexible schedules, and gig economy trends. Empathy and compassion: Women are often perceived as more empathetic and compassionate leaders, fostering a culture of care and support within organizations. Talent acquisition and retention: Women CHROs are 28 | www.womenworldindia.com July, 2024

31. focusing on building strong employer brands, attracting top talent, and developing strategies to retain employees. enhance employee experiences. By embracing technology, women CHROs are able to drive efficiency, improve talent management, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. That is how, in the evolving landscape of human resources, CHROs are increasingly taking the helm, driving significant change and innovation. Their leadership is reshaping HR practices, fostering inclusive cultures, and setting new standards for organizational success. Challenges and Opportunities While women CHROs are making significant strides, they still face challenges such as gender bias, work-life balance, and the pressure to meet expectations. However, these challenges also present opportunities for growth and leadership development. Transformative Leadership and Strategic Vision Women CHROs bring a unique perspective to HR, blending empathy with strategic vision. Their approach to leadership emphasizes collaboration, transparency, and a deep understanding of employee needs. This transformative leadership style not only enhances workplace culture but also drives better business outcomes. Women CHROs are adept at navigating complex organizational challenges and are often at the forefront of implementing innovative HR strategies that align with the overall business objectives. By supporting and empowering women CHROs, organizations can create a more inclusive and equitable workplace, fostering innovation and driving business success. Shaping the Future of Work As the workplace continues to evolve, women CHROs play a crucial role in shaping the future of work. They lead the charge in adopting flexible work arrangements, remote work policies, and innovative performance management systems. Their ability to anticipate and respond to emerging trends ensures that organizations remain agile and competitive in a rapidly changing environment. Promoting Diversity and Inclusion One of the most significant impacts of women CHROs is their commitment to diversity and inclusion. They champion initiatives that promote gender equality, racial diversity, and LGBTQ+ inclusion. By advocating for equitable hiring practices, inclusive policies, and diversity training, women CHROs ensure that organizations benefit from a wide range of perspectives and experiences. This commitment to diversity not only enriches the workplace but also enhances the company's reputation and performance. The impact of women CHROs on the future of HR is profound. Their leadership not only transforms workplace culture but also drives organizational success through strategic vision, diversity and inclusion, employee engagement, and technological advancements. As more women step into CHRO roles, the future of HR is set to become more inclusive, innovative, and aligned with the evolving needs of the workforce. Women CHROs are not just shaping the future of HR—they are redefining it. Fostering Employee Engagement and Well-being Women CHROs understand the importance of employee engagement and well-being in achieving organizational success. They implement programs that support work-life balance, mental health, and professional development. By prioritizing employee satisfaction and well-being, women CHROs help create a motivated and productive workforce. Their focus on holistic employee care is crucial in retaining top talent and reducing turnover rates. Driving Technological Advancements In today's digital age, women CHROs are at the forefront of integrating technology into HR practices. They leverage HR analytics, artificial intelligence, and digital platforms to streamline processes, improve decision-making, and 29 | www.womenworldindia.com July, 2024

32. Visionary Women CHROs to Watch in 2024 S haring her thoughts about the role of HR in organisa- tions from an HR perspective, Vaishnavi says one thing she loves about HR is Exposure. There is no other department in the organisation with such a wide berth. HR Professionals are learners who seek new ways to solve old problems and enablers who make others better. It is never boring and has always been challenging. Because she is passionate about her work. views towards leadership qualities based on professional- ism, compassion, trust, respect and an element of fun when it comes to employee engagement. She has been part of every engagement activity. Whether it is hosting the celebrations or implementing Employee Satisfaction Survey at Corporate as well at Unit Level. She has also been part of the Competency Mapping Project. She has participated in Quality Circles, where her team bagged the Gold award. A Little bit about Vaishnavi, her HR Journey and what she has learned and is still learning... She further oversees the Recruitment of New Projects and the Automotive Division. Apart from that, Background verification checks, Pre-boarding, Onboarding and Induction of the candidates have also been part of her responsibilities. Recently few more duties have been added to her KRAs which were a motivating factor for her. And now Vaishnavi is taking care of a few more HR Processes. An HR professional with over four years of experience in HR, she did her Bachelor’s in Commerce from Kurukshetra University, and after that, she completed her MBA in HR and Marketing from Chandigarh Group of Colleges with distinction. Her passion for people and realising her strengths in the subject of Human Resource Management while studying in college naturally led Vaishnavi to embark on a career in HR. She has always participated actively in HR events and bagged many prizes. While participating in Team activities, she learned various things like being more willing to compromise for the team’s best interest or learning to appreciate what other group members have put in and many more things which she is still learning in a much more practical way. Fortunately, in her third semester of MBA, she landed her first HR role as a Management Trainee at Sandhar Technologies Limited. Like Performance Management Systems, Workforce Modelling – Oracle Software and Centrally coordinating for a virtual event, ‘Walkathone 2.0’ in Sandhar Group. Currently, she is a Senior Executive in the HR department (Corp Office). This experience with Sandhar has given Vaishnavi insight into what it is like to work for an amazing place of work. Consisting of a great team spirit and culture and a compassionate and uplifting management style. This experience has influenced her values, approach to HR and 30 | www.womenworldindia.com July, 2024

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