EDITOR'S HRAI TEAM'S NOTE
HRAI firmly believes in the power of teamwork and the value it brings. When diverse talents and perspectives come together, something extraordinary happens The collective synergy we create goes beyond what any individual can achieve alone and together we see the potential to make a lasting impact on the world
Welcome to this special edition of the 40 Under 40 magazine a celebration of individuals who are redefining boundaries and driving impactful change across industries
This year’s winners represent a remarkable blend of innovation, resilience, and determination. Through their stories and interviews, we uncover the journeys that have shaped them the challenges they’ve faced, the milestones they’ve achieved, and the values they live by.
Each of them stands as a testament to the idea that success is not confined to age but driven by vision and purpose. Their contributions inspire us all to think boldly, act decisively, and make a difference in our spheres of influence
We hope these narratives resonate with you and spark inspiration to pursue your own path of growth and impact.
Happy reading!
he HR Association of India (HRAI), founded in 2020 is an esteemed non-profit organization that has been playing a pivotal role in shaping the HR landscape in India Their primary focus is on exploring, discussing, and promoting the latest business scenarios, market trends, change management, and leadership in the HR industry HRAI is dedicated to creating a community of professionals, learners, and mentors who share their insights and learn from each other to elevate the standard of HR practices in the country.
HRAI's success is attributed to its commitment to excellence and tireless efforts in facilitating interactions between HR professionals and subject matter experts. Through its initiatives such as panel discussions, masterclasses, one-on-one talk shows, and Q&A sessions with thought leaders, HRAI provides a platform for professionals to gain in-depth knowledge and practical solutions that can be applied in real-time
In addition to their educational initiatives, HRAI also recognizes organizations' best practices and individual contributions through awards and conferences These events celebrate the achievements of exceptional professionals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the HR industry in India. Over the years, HRAI has featured more than 1,000 experts and leading minds in the fields of HR, IT, Marketing, Finance, and more, making it a hub for learning and networking.
For HR professionals in India, HRAI offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with like-minded peers, learn from experts, and gain recognition for their hard work and achievements By joining HRAI, HR professionals can stay updated on the latest trends, best practices, and strategies that can help them take their careers to the next level.
HIGHLIGHTS:
HRAI, founded by Dr. Ankita Singh, drives industry initiatives and organizes prestigious awards for organizations, emerging leaders, and trailblazing women leaders. Notable participants include Blue Star Limited, Reliance Retail, Landmark Group, Oracle, Birlasoft, Vedanta and more.
Our commitment to excellence is reinforced through partnerships with the Great Managers Institute and top 100 great managers, who have taken masterclasses and featured in Forbes Magazine
Elite leaders like Dr. TV Rao, Harjeet Khanduja, and Prasenjit Bhattacharya have graced our one-on-one talk shows, enhancing our members' knowledge base.
Our article initiative showcases thought-provoking articles by eminent leaders from organizations like BCCL, Bajaj Energy, TimesPro, Jio, Welspun Group, Great place to work and Accolite Digital.
The 23 Of 2023 Initiative recognizes exceptional leaders and entrepreneurs based on a predetermined theme. Featured leaders include those from Adani, Reliance, IBM, Infosys, KPMG, as well as notable celebrities.
POINT OF VIEW
T A B L E O F
ALOKSHEOPURKAR
HEADHR, HDFCASSETMANAGEMENTCO LTD
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HRTRANSFORMATIONDIRECTOR-SOUTHASIA PACIFICMIDDLEEAST&NORTHAFRICA, L’OREAL
DR.ANKITASINGH
FOUNDER, HRASSOCIATIONOFINDIA
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VP,HEADHR-INDIA&SOUTHASIA, AIRBUS
WEEXTENDOURHEARTFELTGRATITUDETOEACHJURYMEMBERFORTHEIR INVALUABLECONTRIBUTIONSANDFORLENDINGCREDIBILITYANDPRESTIGETOTHIS RECOGNITION.THEIRINSIGHTSANDDEDICATIONWEREINSTRUMENTALIN IDENTIFYINGANDHONORINGTHESEOUTSTANDINGACHIEVERS
CONGRATULATIONSTOTHEEXCEPTIONALINDIVIDUALSFEATUREDINTHISYEAR’S40UNDER40. YOURDEDICATION,INNOVATION,ANDPERSEVERANCEHAVESETNEWBENCHMARKSINYOUR RESPECTIVEFIELDS.YOUARENOTONLYSHAPINGTHEFUTUREBUTALSOINSPIRINGCOUNTLESS OTHERSTOFOLLOWINYOURFOOTSTEPS
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Mr. Abhishek Ray received a chartered Engineering Degree in Quality Control & Assurance from Royal Institute for Charted Engineers United States of America and JRF From Ministry of Humar Resource Development India. Apart from being a certified ISO 9001 :2015 QMS Auditor of IRCA and commercial Arbitrator from Indian institute of Arbitration and Mediation, he is a first-class concrete technologist from ready mix concrete manufacturer’s association of India. As well as a Waterproofing Expert from Construction Industry Development Council of India. Besides a certified ESG professional from BCG, he is also a trained structural retrofitter & rehabilitator from IIT Kharagpur. Mr. Ray possesses 18 years of success story in various civil engineering field, Residential, Commercial, Logistic Park, Factories, Data Centers, Bridges, Road, IT parks and ready-mix concrete Industry. He has worked with organizations like Lodha, Larsen & Toubro, Simplex, Sterling & Wilson, M+W GMBH, IVRCL & Era infra Engineering India Limited.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
As a civil engineering professional, I consider any contribution to the national construction and real estate industry to be an accomplishment. I have made the following contributions during my 18-year tenure in the construction industry and the real estate industry all together
A. From innovation aspect.
Hybrid Polyuria Waterproofing Migration from conventional system of Polyurethane & Pure Polyuria
Hydration Efficiency Enhancer Technology integration in concrete to ensure lesser carbon footprint with large scale replacement of GGBS
Self-cure concrete with the help of "Nanomites Integration" into concrete.
Usage of Automated STP with Hydraulic
Drilling Rigs with double or triple barrel core for soil investigation prior to any structural setup execution
Electrical Resistivity Tomography Test to ensure data accuracy on testing during soil investigation process
Successful Implementation of mechanized plaster by restructuring the polymer modification Technical consultation to different prestigious
projects from Quality Management Standpoint Digitization of Quality Management Modules to ensure operational excellence.
B. From quality awareness, ESG , ethics & customer rights standpoint following are my contribution
Particularly for the manufacturing sectors of the civil engineering related raw materials or bought out items industry in western, southern, and northern India, my surveillance audits and factory inspections have made a significant contribution to safeguarding consumer rights by avoiding unethical behaviors that result in subpar products
In order to raise awareness of qualitative best practices, the Quality Month Celebration was introduced into many business cultures to ensure involvements of ground level workforce and frontline engineers/ supervisors
Spreading awareness of sustainable solutions to civil engineering industry.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
I firmly believe in and adhere to the principle, which has greatly aided me in guiding groups and organizations toward achievement That is, "Be disciplined and never compromise on integrity, trust the worthy, and believe in core values and subject matter expertise
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
My mentorship was initiated during my adolescence at inhouse by my uncle, Mr. Mrinmoy Joarder, who is a civil engineer Till this day, he remains my source of inspiration Afterward, I encountered numerous civil engineering leaders and stalwarts with whom I have collaborated, gaining valuable insights on strategic leadership, quality governance, sustainable innovations, contract administration, commercial arbitration and technical project management principals I must accept a few names with gratitude
A. Mentors who have fostered in me the fundamentals of applied civil mechanical & electrical engineering, as well guaranteed my technical potential are Mr Pankaj Sharma, Mr GK Singh, Mr Kalyan Ray, Mr. Subrata Nandi, Mr. Sambit Ghosh, Mr. Malay Saha Mr. Swapan Kumar Barman, Mr. Amit Kumar Bhattacharyya, Mr M Umashankar, Krishnendu Chakrabarty, Mr Sandeep Dasgupta, Mr S Subramanian, Mr Sikat Dey, Mr Pramod Kumar Singh, Mr. Anirwan Sengupta, Mr. Subhashish Dutta, Mr. Abhishek Mitra, Mr. Sanjay Modi, Mr Badrinath K, Mr Jayakumar Bhavani Shankar, Mr Rajib Ganguly, Mr Subir Dutta Mr Prasanna Das, Mr. Anirban Kundu, Mr. EK Sreekumar Mr. Asheesh Jain & Mr. Jitendra Vaidya.
B. Mentors who taught me the soft skills of management and strategic leadership and pushed me to assignments on innovation and process excellence are Mr. Shaishav Dharia, Mr. Shekhar Gaitonde, Mr. Satish Senoy, Mr Mark Griffiths, Mr Shikanth Kambli, Dr Prasad Marepalli, Mr Sachin Aroskar, Mr Martin Godrad , Mr Rajkamal Yadav , Mr Rahul Kulkarni, Mr. Clifford Furnandace& Mr. Rao R Prasad.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
It is imperative that we establish appropriate procedures and people at place to ensure consistent
statistical analytics on product/service performance throughout all phases, as well as post-business customer feedback, in order to identify deficiencies and opportunities for improvement.
Every organization should establish clear intentions or policies to address recurring shortfalls, leveraging technology and innovations rather than relying on traditional methods of project, product, or operation management.
It is essential to prioritize quality over quantity, and it is crucial to empower the Quality, Audit & Process team to report directly to at least the Managing Director, or ideally, the Chairman of the company.
Achievement is the result of persistent effort and an ongoing commitment to learning that serves as the foundation for success.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
Knowledge is paramount. Achievement does not come through shortcuts; rather, it is the result of persistent effort and an ongoing commitment to learning that serves as the foundation for success. Extraordinary transformations occur beyond the confines of comfort zone. The significance of direction is on par with that of speed
With over 17 years of global experience, Aditya is a visionary leader in community building and nurturing high-performing teams. His expertise lies in crafting innovative initiatives and robust go-to-market strategies that honor regional and stakeholder aspirations, driving sustainable success.
In the realm of HR, Aditya reimagines workplaces as vibrant "Work-Habitats" ecosystems where individuals thrive, embrace lifelong learning, and prepare for the future. A strategist and researcher at heart, he transforms insights into actionable strategies and fosters cultures rooted in positivity, innovation, collaboration, and creativity.
Aditya's passion extends beyond organizational success. He thrives on engaging with the broader human capital agenda, sustainability, and the richness of diverse cultures, sparking meaningful conversations across global stages. Whether guiding individuals on their life or career journeys, he empowers others to unlock their fullest potential and become the answers they seek.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
Reflecting on my career, one accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful was successfully conceptualising and executing one of the biggest projects in Europe in just 9 months. This undertaking was daunting yet transformative, as it involved bringing a highly influential conference of the company to a new region, which required meticulous planning and execution under significant pressure This experience taught me invaluable lessons in leadership, resilience, agility, time management, art of prioritisation, “think-through” approach, and strategic planning
I was tasked with building relationships with key stakeholders, navigating cultural nuances, and assembling a diverse team to ensure successful delivery This accomplishment not only solidified my reputation in the industry but also shaped the trajectory of my professional journey.It reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration and innovation, and it instilled in me a commitment to excellence in every future endeavour
This experience has significantly influenced my career and my approach to impactful leadership
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Simon Sinek once said, “Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge.” In my experience, this philosophy encapsulates the principles that have consistently proven effective in steering teams & organisations towards success Authenticity stands at the forefront
When leaders are genuine and transparent, they cultivate trust, thus fostering a culture where team members feel empowered and contribute to organisational success Equally crucial is instilling a sense of pride in our shared mission. When individuals understand the significance of their contributions, their motivation and commitment to excellence deepen
I believe in having clarity in thoughts and actions, thus helping me clearly articulate our vision and expectations, thus helping in better team alignment Cultivating a culture of open, growth and owner mindset allows teams to adapt, grow and thrive in an ever changing landscape
Finally, the principle of “walking the talk”reinforces integrity; where leaders embody the values they advocate This inspires accountability and dedication throughout the organisation
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been cornerstones of my career, greatly influencing my professional trajectory Throughout this journey, I have been fortunate to encounter a diverse array of mentors and industry leaders whose insights and guidance have illuminated my path. Their collective wisdom has been instrumental in helping me navigate the complexities of my field, instilling in me the values of thinking differently, perseverance and innovation. It has also helped me appreciate the value of lifelong learning and the importance of fostering relationships built on trust and respect
Collaboration has allowed me to harness the collective intelligence of my teams, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives converge to spark creativity and drive impactful solutions Each individual I have worked alongside- be it team members or leaders or just colleagues- has played an essential role in shaping my experiences and enhancing our shared objectives
Both mentorship and meaningful collaboration have not just helped me become a better version of myself but also catalysed in building communities of purpose and practice
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
Navigating the ever- changing currents of our industry has been an exhilarating journey, and I’ve learned that agility is the lifeblood of innovation. Embracing change has become second nature to me; it’s not about adapting- it’s about seizing the moment and transforming challenges into exhilarating opportunities for growth.
A pivotal aspect of my journey has been the practice of design thinking By immersing myself in the perspectives of users, I’ve discovered the power of empathy and creativity in crafting solutions that
resonate deeply. Staying connected to my community has also been invaluable Engaging with industry peers and thought leaders has enriched my perspectives, providing insights that keep my initiatives aligned with real- world needs. These interactions infuse my work with relevance and purpose.
Moreover, I have embraced the essential practice of continuous learning and upskilling. The willingness to unlearn & relearn innovative strategies has been transformative With a growth mindset, I now view every challenge as a stepping stone to greater understanding of the industry and even myself This journey- rooted in adaptability, empathy, and a passion for lifelong learning- has become the essence of my professional identity
Embracing change has become second nature to me; it’s not about adapting- it’s about seizing the moment and transforming challenges into exhilarating opportunities for growth.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
To all aspiring professionals seeking excellence & recognition, my advice is to embrace the power of belief- believe in yourself and your unique potential Believe in your dreams and nurture the seeds of your future with passion, determination and resilience.
Equally important is to stay humble and grounded In a world that often celebrates accolades, remember that true greatness lies in your ability to connect with others and appreciate the journey. As you pursue your goals, engage with your community and seek opportunities to uplift others Your impact will enrich your life in ways you never imagined Stay authentic, stay humble, and never underestimate the difference you can make in the world. Your potential is boundless!
With nearly two decades of experience, f as a seasoned finance professional, excelling in Strategic Finance, Business Finance, Financial Planning & Analysis, Controllership, Pricing, Commercial Negotiation, Taxation, Treasury, and Process Transformation. He is widely recognized for his ability to drive profitable growth, optimize costs, and lead large-scale transformational initiatives.
Ankush Akar is currently serving as the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Datamatics Global Services Limited. Prior to joining Datamatics, Ankush was with Relevance Lab Private Limited, where he led the global Finance function and successfully driven cost optimization to improve profitability. Ankush also held significant roles at Zensar Technologies, including Global Finance Controller and Vice President - Business Finance, leading diverse financial functions across global markets. His earlier career includes key positions at Wipro and Genpact, where he honed his skills in financial planning and analysis.
Ankush is a Chartered Accountant and holds a bachelor’s degree in commerce. He has secured 48th all India rank in CA final examination reflecting his strong academic foundation and commitment to excellence.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
Securing 48th all India rank in CA final examination, collaborating with few great companies and colleagues who have helped me learn in my professional journey. My business Finance role has helped mature me as finance leader with business acumen, customer centricity and growth mindset
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Integrity, Empathy, Transparency, and Innovation has been key for success in my experience.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been guiding light in my career While we learn from our experiences, interactions with other professionals and mentors always helped me learn from their experiences which has considerable impact on my professional journey
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Adopting a design thinking mentality, celebrating failures as learning opportunity and encouraging creativity helps build right culture to innovate and staying relevant
While we learn from our experiences, interactions with other professionals and mentors always helped me learn from their experiences which has considerable impact on my professional journey.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
Working with integrity and honesty is important. In addition, working closely with business teams as strategic business partner has helped in my professional journey to learn and contribute towards sustainable profitable growth
Ankush More is a seasoned finance
erience in finance in various sectors like Healthcare, Consumer Durable and Retail. Currently serving as the Group Controller at Narayana Health, he brings a wealth of expertise in Controllership, Financial Planning and Analysis, Tax, Financial Reporting, Mergers and Acquisitions, Risk management etc. He is a Chartered Accountant and BCom Graduate from ST Xaviers College, Kolkata. His Strong academic foundation, coupled with extensive industry experience has equipped him with deep understanding of financial principles and practices.
He is a strategic thinker with a proven track record of driving financial performance and operational efficiency. His strong analytical skills, strategic mindset and meticulous attention to detail allows to pinpoint areas for cost reduction, revenue growth, and process improvement. He has successfully led/participated in numerous financial initiatives like ERP Implementation, NH IPO, Fund Raising Convergence of Accounting Standards to IND AS, streamlining financial processes etc in his current organisation.
Q: Reflecting on your career accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
When i joined NH in May13, statutory audit for FY -13 was progressing, and I was given the responsibility to lead and close the financial and audit without any dedicated team On top of this, there was no ERP, and accounts were maintained in tally by each location(hospital/clinic) To ensure audit compliance by collecting right details from the location for preparing financial, coordinating with Big 4 auditors, answering their queries & when I was new to the organization had put me in a very difficult situation many times However, with my ability to connect with people I was able to close this activity successfully. This has helped me to learn about NH very quickly which otherwise would have taken a lot of time This has also helped me shaping up my professional journey at NH, I led/participated numerous financial initiatives like ERP Implementation, NH IPO, Fund Raising, Convergence of Accounting Standards to IND AS, Streamlining financial processes to currently handling role of Group Controller.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
In my professional journey of over 15 years, I feel below
most effective in steering team and organization towards success: -
A clear and compelling vision inspire the team and keep them motivated. Leaders should also think strategically and have long term perspective. Leaders should foster a culture of open dialogue and transparency in the team /organisation and pay attention to the needs, concern and ideas of team members
It is also important to empower team members to take ownership of the tasks and make decisions and provide necessary guidance and support when required
Leader should have strong interpersonal skill and have empathy, he/she should maintain strong relationships with team members and stakeholders Addressing conflict effectively and finding win-win solution is also very important
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Mentorship and collaboration are two powerful tools that have a significant role in the growth of any successful finance professional No one enters an organization with complete knowledge, every day is a new learning and mentoring and collaboration plays a significant role apart from anyone’s technical skill and hard work
One learns from experienced finance professionals in the
To achieve success, a logical approach is essential, this skill is undoubtedly a cornerstone for any accomplished professional.
organization about industry trends, best practices and careen strategies Mentors also help identify areas of improvement and provide guidance on developing specific skills and provide mental support during challenging times whereas collaboration is very crucial for any financial professionals, and it is also important for the overall success of the business
Strong relationships with colleagues, other departments, and external stakeholders facilitate smooth operations and effective decision-making and improve overall efficiency in handling internal processes
In my view, collaboration plays a major role in the success of any critical initiatives taken within the organization
As a curious individual, I enjoy interacting with my seniors and try learning from their experiences, which has significantly contributed to my professional growth
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In an industry which is evolving continually, we should embrace change and adapt to new challenges One needs to have continuous learning attitude and encourage other team members to seek out new knowledge and skills to handle new challenges and implement necessary actions.
Keeping ourselves updated with new technology is also very important for bringing efficiency into the system and taking informed decisions. Finally, to achieve success, a logical approach is essential, this skill is undoubtedly a cornerstone for any accomplished professional.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
We should all focus on producing high quality work even if it takes more time, also ensure to pay close attention to details for better outcomes and manage time effectively in any execution
"Without proper execution, nothing can be implemented effectively."
Collaborating with others and contributing positively to team efforts is also very important for any team player
Requesting feedback from colleagues and seniors to identify areas for improvement helps them to learn from their experience
Finally, clear and effective communication is a cornerstone of any professional success By honing these skills, individuals can significantly advance in their careers
Anusha Viswanathan is an accompli ars of expertise in HR leadership, strategy, and operations. She specializes in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), talent acquisition, workforce planning, and HR digitization, driving impactful change and fostering collaborative workplace cultures.
Currently serving as Regional HR Partner at Kinaxis, Anusha leads global and regional HR strategies across India, aligning policies with business goals, ensuring compliance, and advancing leadership development. Collaborating with HR Centers of Expertise, she leverages data-driven insights for talent management and builds high-performance cultures through coaching and mentorship.
Previously, as Deputy Manager – HRBP at Renault Nissan Technology & Business Centre, she led initiatives in organizational development and performance management, delivering business-aligned HR solutions.
Anusha holds a PGDBA from Symbiosis University, Pune, and combines strategic vision with operational excellence to enhance employee satisfaction, reduce attrition, and drive organizational success.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
One of the most impactful accomplishments in my career was spearheading a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiative that significantly improved gender diversity at leadership levels, achieving a measurable increase of over 2%. This initiative involved comprehensive workforce analysis, crafting inclusive policies, conducting leadership training, and fostering an environment that encouraged diverse voices to thrive by creating an active community for women in my business unit.
This accomplishment shaped the trajectory of my professional journey in several ways Firstly, it strengthened my ability to lead large-scale, high-impact projects that align with both organizational goals and employee well-being. It also deepened my expertise in creating strategies that address systemic challenges while driving measurable outcomes
Moreover, the success of this initiative solidified my belief in the power of collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and proactive leadership in shaping inclusive workplace cultures It became a cornerstone for how I approach challenges, emphasizing that meaningful change is achievable through a strategic and empathetic mindset
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
In my experience, the most effective principles and strategies in leadership revolve around clarity, empowerment, adaptability, and empathy Here are some key elements:
1.Vision and Clarity: Providing a clear direction and aligning team objectives with organizational goals ensures that everyone understands the bigger picture and their role within it
2.Empowerment: Trusting team members with autonomy while providing the necessary support fosters ownership, creativity, and accountability. A culture of empowerment inspires individuals to perform at their best
3.Effective Communication: Transparent, consistent, and two-way communication helps in building trust, resolving conflicts, and ensuring alignment across the organization
4.Adaptability and Resilience: Demonstrating flexibility in the face of change and leading by example during challenges encourages teams to stay focused and solution-oriented
5.Empathy and Inclusion: Understanding and valuing diverse perspectives creates a collaborative environment
where innovation flourishes Inclusive leadership ensures that every team member feels heard and valued.
6.Data-Driven Decision-Making: Leveraging data to guide decisions and measure outcomes ensures informed strategies that align with organizational goals while being grounded in reality.
By combining these principles with a focus on continuous learning and development, leaders can inspire teams to exceed expectations and drive longterm success.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been integral to my career, serving as pillars for both personal growth and professional success. Mentorship has provided me with valuable guidance, diverse perspectives, and the encouragement to navigate challenges and seize opportunities Similarly, collaboration has taught me the power of collective intelligence and teamwork in driving impactful outcomes.
One mentor who left a lasting imprint on my professional path emphasized the importance of strategic thinking and empathy in leadership. Their ability to balance business objectives with humancentered approaches inspired me to adopt a leadership style that prioritizes both organizational goals and employee well-being.
In terms of collaboration, working alongside crossfunctional teams during initiatives like Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs or HR digitization efforts has reinforced my belief in the value of diverse viewpoints. These experiences have honed my ability to co-create solutions, build consensus, and execute strategies that are both innovative and inclusive
The lessons learned from these relationships continue to shape my approach, motivating me to mentor others and foster a culture of collaboration wherever I work
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In an industry that is constantly evolving, the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and relevant is adaptability with a learning-oriented mindset The ability to embrace change, stay curious, and continuously seek knowledge ensures professionals remain aligned with emerging trends and technologies.
This involves a combination of:
Agility: Quickly pivoting strategies or approaches in response to shifts in industry dynamics
Empathy and collaboration: Understanding diverse perspectives and working effectively with crossfunctional teams to co-create innovative solutions Data-driven decision-making: Leveraging analytics to identify opportunities and make informed choices.
Resilience: Navigating uncertainties with a solutionfocused attitude and persistence
By fostering a culture of continuous improvement and staying open to experimentation, professionals can not only adapt to changes but also lead innovation in their respective fields
The ability to embrace change, stay curious, and continuously seek knowledge ensures professionals remain aligned with emerging trends and technologies.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
For aspiring professionals aiming to achieve recognition in the field of HR, I would offer the following key lessons:
1.Embrace Continuous Learning: The HR landscape is constantly evolving, and staying curious and committed to learning is essential. Develop expertise in emerging trends like DEI, HR analytics, and digitization, as they are critical drivers of success
2.Build Strong Relationships: Networking, collaboration, and building trust with key stakeholders whether cross-functional teams, leaders, or employees are fundamental to influencing organizational success. The ability to connect and align with others will amplify your impact.
3.Data-Driven Decision-Making: Leverage data to inform strategies, track results, and measure impact HR professionals who can translate data into actionable insights are more likely to drive meaningful outcomes and add value to their organizations
4.Lead with Empathy and Adaptability: The ability to understand diverse perspectives, embrace change, and support others through transitions is critical. Empathetic leadership fosters a positive culture and enhances employee engagement and satisfaction
5.Seek Mentorship and Be a Mentor: Learning from those who have paved the way can accelerate your growth Equally, mentoring others helps reinforce your knowledge, leadership skills, and personal development.
6.Be Proactive and Strategic: Take initiative, think long-term, and align your efforts with the broader organizational goals Focus on high-impact projects and solutions that contribute to both individual and business success.
By applying these principles, aspiring professionals can position themselves to stand out and achieve lasting recognition in the HR field.
Ashish is a dynamic HR professional with rich experience across industries such as Steel Retail, BPOs, Travel, Multiplexes, and Entertainment. With a career spanning geographies like India, Africa, and the UAE, he has demonstrated a remarkable ability to lead diverse workforces and adapt to multicultural environments. Currently, Ashish serves as the Head of HR for NY Cinemas and Devgn Films LLP, part of the Ajay Devgn Group. NY Cinemas is a growing chain of multiplex theatres, while Devgn Films is a leading production house. Ashish plays a key role in aligning human capital strategies with organizational objectives, driving service excellence, and boosting sales per head through tailored training and skill-building initiatives. Previously, Ashish managed an extensive HR portfolio at the Satguru Group, supporting companies like Satguru Travel, Top Travel Trip, JamboShopee, Time Legend IT & HR, Yiron Technologies, and Travel Wings.
His expertise in strategic planning and transformative change has consistently delivered strong organizational and employee outcomes. A staunch advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Ashish is also an accomplished culture manager, fostering positive and productive workplace environments. His strategic vision and leadership continue to drive growth and employee development across organizations.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
For me, accomplishments are not defined by certificates, awards, or formal recognitions achieved throughout my professional journey. Instead, my true achievements lie in the diverse experiences and lessons gained from working across various industries
In BPOs, I mastered the dynamics of attrition management and bulk hiring. At Essar Steel, I delved into the intricacies of HR by navigating the complexities of Corporate and Plant HR functions My tenure at Satguru offered valuable insights into managing a diverse workforce, especially across African countries, with their unique challenges.
At NY Cinemas, I am gaining invaluable experience in driving business expansion into tier 2 and tier 3 cities in India.
Each role, every organization, and all the teams and situations I've encountered have contributed significantly to my growth as a seasoned and resilient People Professional. These diverse learnings are my true accomplishments, shaping my expertise and enhancing my ability to adapt and lead in any environment
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
In my experience, the most effective principles and strategies in leadership for driving teams and organizations toward success include:
·Empathy: Understanding and valuing the perspectives and emotions of team members fosters trust, strengthens relationships, and creates a supportive work environment
·Nurturing Talent: Identifying potential, investing in growth, and empowering individuals to excel ensures a motivated and skilled workforce aligned with organizational goals
·Effective Communication and Active Listening: Clear and transparent communication, coupled with genuinely listening to team members, builds mutual respect and ensures alignment across the organization
·Innovation: Encouraging creativity and adopting fresh approaches to challenges drives progress, adaptability, and competitiveness in a constantly evolving landscape
·Problem-Solving: Tackling challenges with a proactive and solution-oriented mindset ensures steady progress and resilience in the face of adversity
These principles have consistently proven to inspire teams, drive collaboration, and achieve sustainable organizational success.
Being
willing to stand out, think differently, and take bold steps that set you apart in a competitive landscape.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentors play a crucial role in shaping the long-term careers of individuals While I haven’t had a single dedicated mentor in my life, I’ve drawn inspiration from different people at various stages of my journey.
From my former boss, Mr Anil Chandirani, I imbibed the entrepreneurial mindset Mr KBM Swamy, the exHead of HR at Essar Steel, taught me the importance of perseverance and the art of getting things done. I
also learned the nuances of sales from Mr. Hiren Merchant, then the National Sales Head at Essar Hypermart
On a personal level, my courage and confidence have been deeply influenced by my elder sister, who raised me with resilience and strength, and my wife, whose unwavering support has empowered my decisions in life.
I firmly believe that everyone around us has something valuable to teach life lessons that can inspire and contribute to our growth both personally and professionally.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
I believe, in an ever-evolving industry, the key to staying innovative and relevant lies in cultivating a mindset that embraces growth and adaptability This involves:
·Embracing New Technologies: Staying updated and integrating emerging tools and advancements to drive efficiency and remain competitive in a tech-driven landscape is a must in the current time
·Being Open to Unlearning and Relearning: Letting go of outdated practices and actively seeking new knowledge to stay aligned with industry advancements, can only nurture creative mindset
·Stepping Out of Comfort Zones: Challenging oneself to explore unfamiliar territories and take on new opportunities, even when they seem daunting.
·Adapting to Change: Embracing transformation with a flexible and proactive attitude, recognizing that change is a constant driver of progress.
·Having the Courage to Be Different: Being willing to stand out, think differently, and take bold steps that set you apart in a competitive landscape.
This mindset ensures not only personal growth but also the ability to contribute meaningfully to innovation and success in a dynamic environment
Knowing the "why" behind your actions will help you drive meaningful impact and contribute to both organizational and personal success.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
My advice to young HR professionals is to develop a deep understanding of all facets of HR, including hiring, compliance, talent management, compensation, performance management systems (PMS), and learning and development (L&D).
Seek out both formal and informal opportunities to enhance your knowledge and skills
Many aspiring HR professionals step into HRBP roles without fully grasping the business's needs or the expectations placed on HR
Remember, HR is a line function, not just a support function. Align your efforts with measurable business outcomes such as profits, sales, ROI, and overall performance
While focusing on driving results, never lose sight of the human element. Empathy is a cornerstone of effective HR. Cultivate patience and stability, as they are crucial for sustainable growth in your career
Finally, always clarify the purpose and objectives behind your role, tasks, and initiatives.
Knowing the "why" behind your actions will help you drive meaningful impact and contribute to both organizational and personal success.
Basant is a dynamic HR professional with 12 years of diverse experience spanning manufacturing, service, and technology sectors. Renowned for blending operational excellence with strategic foresight, he consistently delivers transformative results. Basant's career is marked by his ability to address immediate organizational challenges while building future-ready strategies.
His expertise encompasses the entire HR spectrum, enabling him to implement innovative people and culture initiatives. With a proven track record in scaling HR systems, Basant has successfully led greenfield and brownfield projects, taking them from inception to operational maturity.
An advocate of continuous learning and adaptability, Basant fosters cultures of innovation and resilience. His empathetic, inclusive leadership style resonates across all organizational levels, earning trust and inspiring collaboration. As a strategic business partner, Basant aligns people strategies with organizational goals, shaping sustainable growth and positioning HR as a key driver in the future of work.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
The most impactful accomplishment in my career was spearheading a comprehensive Attrition Reduction Project in one of the flagship sites in my last organization Upon joining, I identified a critical attrition rate of 28%, significantly higher than industry standards This high turnover was severely impacting our operational efficiency and customer service quality. I initiated a data-driven, multi-faceted approach to address this challenge:
months 4. The change management, data backed decision making was critical. We focused on clear communication, stakeholder engagement, and addressing resistance headon Utilized analytical tools to ensure the data is
processed accurately and yields meaningful actions. I personally led town halls and workshops to ensure buyin across all levels We created a network of "change champions" to facilitate adoption and gather continuous feedback.
The results were remarkable – we reduced attrition from 28% to 10% within 11 months, surpassing our initial target of 15% This led to substantial cost savings in recruitment and training, and notably improved employee satisfaction scores.
This accomplishment significantly shaped my career trajectory It demonstrated my ability to lead large-scale organizational changes and highlighted the importance of data-driven, people-centric strategies in solving complex business challenges The success elevated my role as a strategic leader, opening up new opportunities to drive impactful initiatives across the company
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
In my leadership journey, the principle of "Empowerment through Trust and Accountability" has proven most effective in driving organizational success This approach involves creating an environment where employees at all levels feel trusted to make decisions, take calculated risks, and own their outcomes
Implementing this principle starts with delegating not just tasks, but authority. It means providing clear objectives and boundaries, then stepping back to allow team members to determine the best path forward This fosters innovation and problem-solving skills, as employees feel empowered to think creatively and act decisively.
However, empowerment must be balanced with accountability I've found that setting clear expectations and regularly reviewing progress ensures that trust is not misplaced. This isn't about micromanagement, but rather about creating a culture of open communication where successes are celebrated and failures are viewed as learning opportunities
The impact of this principle has been profound. I've witnessed increased employee engagement, faster decision-making, and more innovative solutions emerging from all levels of the organization It's led to a more agile and responsive company culture, crucial in our fast-paced industry.
Ultimately, empowerment through trust and accountability creates a virtuous cycle As employees prove themselves capable, they're entrusted with more responsibility, driving their growth and the organization's success simultaneously.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been pivotal in shaping my career and leadership philosophy I have been fortunate to have mentors and role models in various stages of my life and I have treasured all of them I've gained invaluable insights from experienced leaders and developed the balance of strategic thinking with meticulous execution, not looking for short term fixes and creating long-term value creation, not just be a manager but an inspirational leader and the one lesson which tops all these is ‘Be Empathetic and Selfless while you lead a team’. These lessons have profoundly influenced my professional journey and more so how I have shaped up as a person
As I've progressed, mentoring others has become a priority, offering fresh perspectives and keeping me connected to emerging trends. This two-way learning
process has been instrumental in my ongoing development
Collaboration has been equally crucial in my corporate journey Leading cross-functional initiatives has reinforced the power of diverse thinking in problemsolving where each member brings unique perspectives and adds value to the overall goal.
Mentorship and collaboration have not only shaped my career but have become central to my leadership style, emphasizing continuous learning, diverse perspectives, and creating conditions for others to thrive and innovate.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In our rapidly evolving industry, the key to staying innovative and relevant is fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability within our workforce As an HR leader, I've found that this starts with a robust talent development strategy It is crucial to anticipate future skill needs and proactively upskill our employees.
We've also revamped our performance management system to emphasize learning agility and innovation alongside traditional metrics This shift has encouraged employees at all levels to experiment with new ideas and approaches, leading to several improvements in our HR processes, including our recruitment and onboarding strategies
Furthermore, we've cultivated strong partnerships with educational institutions ensuring a pipeline of fresh talent and ideas These initiatives, combined with our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, have significantly enhanced our organization's ability to adapt to industry changes
From the HR perspective, we are constantly reevaluating and evolving our practices to meet the changing needs of our workforce and business. It's about creating an environment where our people feel empowered to learn, grow, and contribute to the company's success in meaningful ways
The most successful HR professionals I know are those who relentlessly seek ways to enable their organizations to thrive, whether through data-driven insights, innovative people practices, or simply being a trusted advisor to leaders.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
The most valuable lessons I've learned revolve around the importance of aligning HR strategy with business priorities, earning the trust of key stakeholders, and consistently adding value to drive organizational success
A critical skill is the ability to think beyond traditional HR functions and deeply understand the core business. The most impactful HR leaders I've encountered are those who proactively immerse themselves in the company's operations, challenges, and strategic vision They leverage this business acumen to identify how HR can directly contribute to solving major organizational problems
Ultimately, recognition in our field isn't about titles or personal accomplishments - it's about consistently adding value to the overall cause. The most successful HR professionals I know are those who relentlessly seek ways to enable their organizations to thrive, whether through data-driven insights, innovative people practices, or simply being a trusted advisor to leaders. This mindset of adaptability, business acumen, and a service-oriented approach has been the foundation of my own career progression It has allowed me to contribute to transformative initiatives that have had a measurable impact on our company's performance and culture.
So, my advice to aspiring HR professionals would be to cultivate a growth mindset, deeply understand the business, build credibility with stakeholders, and always strive to be a strategic partner in driving organizational success If you focus on making a tangible difference, the recognition and rewards will naturally follow
As a seasoned HR leader with over 14 years of diverse experience, Bhavya has a proven track record of building and transforming HR functions to drive organizational success. Currently serving as the Head of HR at Translumina, Bhavya has spearheaded the establishment of a comprehensive HR framework, implemented cutting-edge HR systems, and led initiatives that have significantly improved employee engagement and organizational efficiency.
Throughout her career, she has demonstrated exceptional expertise in strategic HR management, talent acquisition, change leadership, and compliance. Recognized for her ability to align HR strategies with business goals, She fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence. Her leadership style emphasizes empowering teams, driving continuous improvement, and ensuring that HR remains a strategic partner in achieving business objectives.
Bhavya is committed to creating workplaces where people thrive, and organizations excel.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
The biggest accomplishment of my career has been establishing an entire Human Resource System from scratch in the organization. This journey involved creating comprehensive policies and procedures, designing processes for every aspect of the employee lifecycle, and building frameworks for core HR functions such as Talent Acquisition, Talent Management, HR Operations, Compliance, and Employee Engagement
What started as a one-person HR team has now grown into a robust, well-structured department, managing and supporting the organization’s most valuable resource its people
This career milestone has been both beautiful and transformative. Being handed a white canvas to create something meaningful is an experience like no other. While it came with its share of challenges, I firmly believe that the most rewarding achievements in life are rarely easy. It is this blend of effort and accomplishment that makes the journey truly fulfilling.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
The strategies that have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success revolve around three key pillars:
1. Setting a Clear Vision: A well-defined and measurable vision is essential for aligning the team and ensuring everyone works toward a common goal. When the team understands the bigger picture, they can channel their efforts more effectively, driving the organization toward success
2. Team Empowerment: Often underestimated, this strategy is critical for achieving long-term success. Empowering your team by delegating responsibilities, trusting their capabilities, and providing the necessary support creates a sense of ownership and motivation. When individuals feel valued and supported, they perform at their best, achieving remarkable outcomes for both them and the organization
3. Open Communication: No strategy can replace the importance of open and honest communication. A strong leader fosters a culture where dialogue flows
freely, feedback is welcomed, and active listening is prioritized This not only builds trust but also ensures that challenges are addressed promptly, and innovation thrives.
These strategies together form the foundation of a successful and thriving team environment When effectively implemented, they create an ecosystem where collaboration, productivity, and growth are seamlessly integrated
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship plays a pivotal role in shaping a fulfilling and successful career From helping you set SMART goals to guiding you toward your achievement, mentors provide invaluable insights and exposure to diverse perspectives.
This not only fosters an open mindset but also enhances adaptability two crucial qualities for personal and professional growth.
Collaboration, on the other hand, broadens your network and opens avenues for continuous learning It encourages diverse thought processes and helps in finding innovative solutions to complex challenges.
Together, mentorship and collaboration form a strong foundation for a thriving career
When I joined Translumina, I was fortunate to have the co-founders of the organization as my mentors.
Their guidance offered me exponential learning opportunities and exposure to broader perspectives, which have been instrumental in my growth.
The right mentorship is essential for those who are aspirational and truly committed to their development
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
When you are honest and dedicated to your job, no matter the situation, workplace, or industry, you have the foundation to build a beautiful and fulfilling career.
In my opinion, critical thinking, adaptability, creativity, and resilience are essential skills for staying innovative and relevant in an ever-evolving world These traits empower individuals to navigate challenges, think outside the box, and maintain their edge in a competitive landscape.
The one constant in life is change To thrive in industries that are continuously evolving, one must not only accept change but also adapt to it proactively. It’s this ability to evolve with changing times that ensures long-term success and sustainability
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is to always stay true to your work and genuinely love what you do When you are honest and dedicated to your job, no matter the situation, workplace, or industry, you have the foundation to build a beautiful and fulfilling career
Passion and integrity not only fuel success but also make the journey more meaningful and rewarding.
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Deepan Mukherjee, a prominent figure in HR with over 19 years of experience, currently heads Learning & Development at Marengo Asia Hospitals. His impressive background includes roles at The Oberoi Group, E&Y, and Jakson Group.
With degrees from IIM Lucknow and a Master's in Philosophy, Deepan excels in talent management, employee engagement, and HR automation. Recently recognized as a TOP 50 HR Leader, he shares his expertise through his YouTube channel, "Learning with Deepan."
Beyond his professional achievements, Deepan is a talented musician, showcasing his creativity as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the band "Deewangi." This unique blend of professional acumen and artistic expression makes him a truly exceptional individual.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
My most transformative journey was reimagining Learning & Development at Marengo Asia Hospitals. Coming from diverse sectors like The Oberoi Group and E&Y, I recognized that healthcare demands a unique learning ecosystem. I pioneered a holistic L&D framework that wasn't just about training, but about creating a continuous growth mindset
By integrating innovative talent management strategies with technology-driven HRMS automation, we transformed employee development from a transactional process to a strategic organizational lever This approach didn't just enhance individual skills; it fundamentally shifted how we perceive learning – making it agile, personalized, and directly aligned with organizational goals.
The ripple effect was profound: increased employee engagement, accelerated skill development, and a more resilient workforce capable of navigating complex healthcare challenges. This accomplishment wasn't just a professional milestone; it was a testament to the power of visionary human resource strategies
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Leadership, for me, is about creating an environment of psychological safety and continuous learning. The most effective strategies revolve around three core principles: Transparency
· Empowerment, and
· Adaptability.
I believe in dismantling hierarchical barriers and creating platforms where every team member feels heard and valued. By encouraging open dialogue and treating failures as learning opportunities, we create a culture of innovation Empowerment means providing clear context, not just directives – helping teams understand the 'why' behind tasks
Adaptability is crucial in today's dynamic landscape; it means being comfortable with uncertainty and viewing change as an opportunity, not a threat
My approach has always been to lead by example, demonstrating vulnerability, continuous learning, and a growth mindset. By aligning individual aspirations with organizational goals and maintaining a human-centric approach, we transform teams from mere workforce units into passionate, interconnected ecosystems
Continuous upskilling is non-negotiable –whether it's understanding emerging HR technologies, data analytics, or psychological frameworks of workplace dynamics.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
My professional journey has been profoundly shaped by mentors and collaborators who saw potential beyond conventional boundaries At The Art of Living Foundation, I learned the transformative power of holistic leadership from spiritual mentors who taught me that professional excellence is intrinsically linked to personal growth My academic journey at IIM Lucknow exposed me to thought leaders who challenged me to think beyond traditional HR paradigms. Remarkable collaborators across KEI Wires, Jakson Group, and now Marengo Asia Healthcare have been instrumental in broadening my perspective They weren't just colleagues; they were cocreators of vision Each interaction was an opportunity to learn, unlearn, and reimagine possibilities. The most significant lesson? True collaboration transcends transactional relationships – it's about mutual respect, shared vulnerabilities, and a collective commitment to growth These relationships have been my compass, guiding me through complex professional landscapes and helping me evolve continuously.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
The key to staying innovative is cultivating a perpetual learning mindset coupled with technological adaptability. In HR, this means moving beyond traditional compliance-driven approaches to becoming strategic partners in organizational transformation
Continuous upskilling is non-negotiable – whether it's understanding emerging HR technologies, data analytics, or psychological frameworks of workplace dynamics.
I've invested significant time in understanding how artificial intelligence, machine learning, and predictive analytics can revolutionize talent management. However, technology is just a tool; the real innovation lies in maintaining human centricity
It's about using these technologies to create more personalized, empathetic employee experiences. Being curious, staying humble, and maintaining a 360-degree perspective – where you're simultaneously a student and a thought leader – is crucial
Innovation isn't about having all the answers, but about asking the right questions and being brave enough to experiment
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
My most valuable lesson is that success is a multidimensional journey, not a linear path.
First, invest in yourself relentlessly – not just through formal education, but through diverse experiences, continuous learning, and personal development.
Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone.
Build a strong network, but focus on meaningful connections over mere professional transactions Develop a holistic skill set that goes beyond technical expertise – emotional intelligence, adaptability, and communication are your true differentiators.
Be authentic; your unique story is your greatest strength
Remember that recognition like the 40 Under 40 isn't the destination, but a milestone in an ongoing journey of impact Stay curious, remain humble, and always align your professional aspirations with a larger purpose
One’s career should be about creating value – for your organization, your team, and ultimately, society
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Deepanjan Sinha, a Mechanical Engine man Resources, has almost 9 years of experience in various industries, including oil & gas equipment, stainless steel, and flexible packaging. His journey has been rewarding and enriching, beginning on the shop floor as an Engineer working hands-on in plant operations and supply chain. He then landed a plant HR role, where he could apply his practical understanding of manufacturing processes and challenges. This experience helped him comprehend more about the employee life cycle, HR policies, organizational culture, and other people aspects, eventually leading to his current role in Corporate HR (Talent Management Function). In addition to his educational background and professional experience, he is a percussion instrumental musician, vocalist, and a beat boxer, holding a graduation degree in Tabla & Pakhawaj.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
During the initial phases of my career, despite being a novice, I was fortunate enough to be given platforms, mentoring, and empowerment to independently plan and execute my responsibilities, make appropriate decisions, learn from my mistakes, and work with CFTs to have a holistic view of the entire organization and end-to-end processes. As a result, it has contributed to my progress as on date.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
A good leader should possess strong subject knowledge and a deep understanding of his / her field, balance datadriven decision-making with gut feelings, remain calm during crisis situations, be assertive, and maintain cordial relations with all stakeholders, all while being system-oriented and focusing on the needs of all 360degree stakeholders.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
I have had the privilege to have mentors at every stage of my academic and professional life, both formally and informally (whether at the university or within organizations I have worked for) They have been imperative to enable me get the right guidance, inspire
me, and encourage me to continue working for betterment
EXPAND
BEYOND DEFINED TASKS AND EXPLORE ALLIED AREAS & PROCESSES FOR COMPREHENSIVE UNDERSTANDING.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
To remain competitive in the more rapidly changing business environment, it is critical to remain apprised about industry, markets, technology, capabilities, and risks, via plenty of sources. Networking platforms, seminars, workshops, conferences, webinars, blogs, social media, books, research papers, articles, and podcasts can all help to connect with experts in the industry and gain insight into the latest developments Applying these lessons will be essential in real-life situations.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
To benefit in the long run, one should be a positive thinker, open-minded, and have a learning mindset Expand beyond defined tasks and explore allied areas & processes for comprehensive understanding. Maintain strong cross-functional relationships, analyze from multiple perspectives, and stay updated with the latest tools & techniques Passionately pursue projects with indepth conceptual knowledge and use a combination of logic and intuition when making decisions.
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Devang Pandya is current y g RA at Analytix Solutions in Ahmedabad, with over 17 years of experience across multiple sectors, including Information Technology, Outsourcing, FMCG, and Pharmaceuticals. He has worked with leading MNCs and Indian companies such as Vadilal Industries, Cadila Pharmaceuticals, Muthoot Fincorp, LendingTree Research, and Navaera. Devang has played a critical role in managing mission-critical projects and providing strategic insights to businesses. He is passionate about continuous learning and is dedicated to coaching and developing teams. He holds an MBA in Human Resources, is pursuing a Ph.D. in HR Analytics, is certified in HR Analytics from IIM Rohtak, and has earned a diploma in Training and Development from ISTD, Delhi.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
One of the most impactful accomplishments in my career was leading a mission-critical HR transformation project with couple of previous organization The projects involved revamping the talent acquisition strategy, initiating HR analytics, and implementing a robust employee engagement program across multiple geographies This initiative not only resulted in a significant reduction in time-to-hire but also improved employee engagement scores, which, in turn, contributed to higher retention rates. The success of this project solidified my belief in the power of data-driven HR strategies and shaped my decision to specialize in HR Analytics It also gave me the confidence to take on larger strategic roles, enabling me to deepen my expertise and continue shaping business outcomes through effective HR interventions
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
I’ve found that empowering teams and leading by example are key principles of effective leadership. Empowerment allows team members to take ownership
of their roles, fostering creativity and accountability This, in turn, drives performance and innovation Another important strategy has been clear communication ensuring that everyone is aligned with the organization's mission, goals, and values As a leader, I focus on building a culture of transparency where feedback is valued and continuous learning is encouraged.
Additionally, investing in leadership development programs for my teams has always yielded great results When leaders at all levels are equipped with the right skills, the organization is better positioned to navigate challenges and achieve success.
AS A LEADER, I FOCUS ON BUILDING A CULTURE OF TRANSPARENCY WHERE FEEDBACK IS VALUED AND CONTINUOUS LEARNING IS ENCOURAGED.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been cornerstone elements in my career I have always believed in the importance of having mentors who provide guidance and challenge you to think differently. One of the most influential mentors in my career was a senior leader during my early days of career They not only taught me about strategic HR practices but also helped me understand the importance of aligning HR strategies with business goals. Through their mentorship, I learned how to take a broader perspective of business and leadership
Additionally, collaboration with cross-functional teams has been instrumental in my success, especially in driving HR projects that require a holistic, organization-wide approach The learning from these collaborations and mentoring relationships has been invaluable, influencing how I lead teams today.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In an ever-evolving industry like HR, adaptability and a continuous learning mindset are essential for staying innovative The HR landscape, especially in areas like Talent Acquisition, Learning & Development, HR Analytics, and Employee Engagement, is constantly changing due to technological advancements and shifting business needs
Staying relevant requires a commitment to upskilling, whether through formal education, certifications (like my certification in HR Analytics from IIM Rohtak), or staying updated with industry trends
Additionally, having an entrepreneurial mindset where I am open to new ideas, willing to experiment, and able to pivot when necessary has helped me stay ahead of the curve and introduce innovative solutions that meet both organizational and employee needs
Understanding the intersection of HR and business strategy is key to making meaningful contributions.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
The most valuable lessons I’ve learned in my field are: Continuous learning is non-negotiable: HR is a dynamic field, and staying updated through networking & collaboration, and real-time applications of new knowledge has been crucial to my success
Align your work with organizational goals: Your efforts will be truly impactful when they are aligned with business objectives Understanding the intersection of HR and business strategy is key to making meaningful contributions.
Develop your leadership and coaching skills: HR professionals are often seen as strategic partners in the organization Building your ability to lead, mentor, and coach others can multiply your impact and drive change across the business.
Be patient, but persistent: Recognition doesn’t come overnight It's important to stay focused on long-term goals, even when progress seems slow. Consistency and dedication to your craft will eventually lead to recognition
Build strong relationships: Networking and building meaningful relationships across the business not only provide opportunities for collaboration but also help in understanding the nuances of the organization and its culture
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Dr. Arunabha Bhattacharjee, an IITian g p g st, boasts over 15 years of experience in driving talent management and shaping learning cultures that align with strategic business goals. Originally from Silchar, Assam, and now based in Dubai, UAE, Dr. Bhattacharjee leads the L&D initiatives for Landmark Group’s footwear division - SHOEMART across the GCC, bringing his diverse experience from the BFSI, healthcare, and FMCG sectors to the forefront. Holding a PhD , An Alumnus from the prestigious European International University, Paris one of the world's top 100 business School. Dr. Bhattacharjee is also an alumni of MAHE, Manipal and DSMS (WBUT) and is currently advancing his expertise through an Executive MBA ( his second masters )in HR and Strategy at IIT Patna. Dr. Bhattacharjee credits his parents and family for their immense contribution towards shaping his career and life . A certified neuroscience coach and a Certified ICF-CCE Coach, he complements his profound skills in strategic L&D and high-impact training across various sectors. Renowned for his cross-cultural team management and strategic learning architectures, he has been transformative in organizational training. Dr. Bhattacharjee is also a two-time TEDx speaker and has earned multiple accolades such as the National Youth Icon and the Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar Award for his contributions to learning-led impact and literary space . He is the award-winning author of "Power Is You: Step Towards Excellence," further solidifying his influence in the field. He is recognized as one of the most qualified and knowledgeable L&D Professionals in the L&D fraternity in Asia. He has also been recognized as one of “Asia’s Top 100 Powerful Coaches” by IEEE.
Q: Reflecting on your caree accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
My career has been profoundly shaped by a dedication to impactful learning, leveraging my academic accomplishments to redefine organizational training and development My academic journey includes a PhD from the European International University, Paris (Ranked among the Top 100 B-School’s in the World), and currently pursuing my second master's degree, an Executive MBA in HR and Strategy, from the Indian Institute of Technology, Patna ( IIT- Patna) These institutions are not just educational landmarks but pillars that have supported my philosophy of integrating academic rigor with strategic learning led growth execution
As the Lead of Learning & Development, my role involves transforming complex theoretical models into practical, effective training solutions that enhance organizational performance This synthesis of scholarly learning and practical application has been pivotal, propelling my career and establishing me as a critical enabler in the learning domain. My efforts are centered on infusing cutting-edge academic research into daily easy to understand yet impactful training practices, thereby promoting a culture of continuous improvement
in L&D efficacy
This commitment to blending educational insights with workplace innovation underscores my dedication to not only personal excellence but also to the broader evolution of the learning and development industry It’s a testament to how academic foundations can profoundly influence and drive forward professional and organizational success.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
As the Lead of Learning & Development at Shoemart, my leadership approach is deeply rooted in fostering a culture of continuous learning and development Here are the core principles I personally believe and adhere to: Visionary Leadership: We define clear learning goals that align with our strategic objectives, inspiring every team member to strive for excellence. This vision sets the educational direction and drives all our L&D initiatives Empathetic Leadership: By understanding the individual learning styles and professional aspirations of our team members, we tailor our development programs to meet diverse needs This personalized approach ensures greater engagement and effectiveness in training.
Adaptive Leadership: The retail industry's fast pace requires us to continuously update and adapt our learning programs to keep up with new technologies and market trends. We prioritize flexibility in our training methods to swiftly incorporate relevant changes
Inclusive Leadership: We ensure that our L&D programs are accessible to all employees, celebrating diverse backgrounds and perspectives. This inclusivity enriches our learning environment and fosters a broader understanding among our teams
Strategic Decision-Making: Decisions regarding L&D are made with a long-term perspective, focusing on building capabilities that sustain future organizational needs while addressing current gaps
Communication: Effective communication is crucial in L&D. We consistently convey the value and objectives of our training initiatives, ensuring clarity and alignment across the organization.
Developing Others: A core part of our mission is the continuous professional development of our employees. We offer varied learning opportunities, from digital courses to leadership workshops, to support their growth and career advancement Accountability and Integrity: We maintain high standards in our L&D practices, measuring the impact of our training and making adjustments based on outcomes. This accountability ensures the effectiveness of our programs and the integrity of our educational commitments Our achievement of being a CPD accredited L&D department is a hallmark of our process oriented approach.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been pivotal in my career, significantly shaping my professional trajectory. Throughout my journey, I have been fortunate to connect with mentors who provided guidance, insight, and support, especially during critical transitions or complex challenges These relationships have been instrumental in refining my strategic thinking and enhancing my leadership capabilities.
Fostering a collaborative environment is a cornerstone
of our Learning & Development strategy. This emphasis on teamwork not only encourages knowledge sharing and skill development but also builds a supportive corporate culture that enhances overall organizational resilience and adaptability. The collaborative efforts with various teams across different departments have also enriched my professional experience, highlighting the value of diverse perspectives and collective problemsolving in achieving substantial and sustainable business outcomes. These interactions have not only deepened my professional relationships but have also left a lasting imprint on my approach to learning and development
The collaborative efforts with various teams across different departments have also enriched my professional experience, highlighting the value of diverse perspectives and collective problem-solving in achieving substantial and sustainable business outcomes.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In an industry as dynamic as retail, where continual evolution is the norm, the key skill that stands paramount is adaptability, complemented by a mindset of lifelong learning. This combination not only equips professionals to respond to changes effectively but also to drive innovation actively within their domains
where the pace of change is accelerated by shifting consumer behaviours and technological advancements, fostering an adaptive culture is integral to our strategy We prioritize keeping our team’s skills sharp and
relevant, encouraging them to embrace and lead change rather than react to it This involves regular training updates, workshops, and feedback sessions that help identify gaps and opportunities for growth.
Moreover, maintaining a mindset that views challenges as opportunities for innovation is crucial This perspective motivates us to explore new solutions, experiment with emerging technologies, and rethink traditional approaches. It also involves staying connected with the wider industry trends through networking, attending conferences, and participating in professional groups, which provide insights into how other leaders and organizations are navigating similar challenges.
Thus, the synergy of adaptability and continuous learning forms the core of staying innovative and relevant in the retail industry. By cultivating these, we not only anticipate and respond to changes but also position ourselves as leaders in shaping the industry’s future
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
For aspiring professionals seeking to carve a successful path in their field, I offer several key lessons that have been instrumental in my own career development These insights are grounded in practical experiences and enriched by fundamental principles from influential leadership texts that have profoundly shaped my approach
Embrace Continuous Learning: The landscape of any industry is perpetually changing, so the willingness to continually learn and adapt is crucial. As Jim Collins articulates in Good to Great, "The moment you feel you know everything is the moment you stop growing Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other."
Foster Resilience: Challenges and setbacks are inevitable The resilience to persevere, learn from failures, and pivot when necessary is vital. This echoes the sentiment of Angela Duckworth in Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, where she argues that "Grit is living life like it's a marathon, not a sprint "
The synergy of adaptability and continuous learning forms the core of staying innovative and relevant in the retail industry.
Cultivate Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Understanding and connecting with others is a powerful tool Daniel Goleman's Emotional Intelligence emphasizes that "Leadership is not domination, but the art of persuading people to work toward a common goal." This has guided my approach to leading diverse teams effectively
Build Strong Relationships: Networking and relationship-building within and outside your industry are invaluable Keith Ferrazzi in Never Eat Alone highlights that "Success in any field, but especially in business is about working with people, not against them."
Maintain Ethical Integrity: Always adhere to high ethical standards As Stephen R Covey explains in the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, "Integrity is the foundation of trust, which is essential for effective leadership."
These lessons have not only guided my professional journey but have also equipped me to lead with confidence and integrity. For those aspiring to similar recognition, integrating these principles into your personal and professional ethos can significantly influence your success and fulfilment in your career
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Dr. Srividhya Sundararaman has been r 40 Award by the HR Association of India (HRAI) for her remarkable contributions to leadership and women’s empowerment. With global expertise and a passion for meaningful change, Dr. Vidhya currently serves at Biocon Biologics, India’s largest and most innovative biopharma company. As Chapter Lead of the Biocon Women Network since April 2024, she has launched transformative initiatives, including public speaking workshops, health awareness sessions, and guest speaker events, empowering women to develop confidence, resilience, and leadership capabilities.
Her efforts extend beyond skill development to cultivating a supportive, inclusive workplace culture that enhances employee retention and engagement. As an active member of the POSH committee and cultural coordinator, she promotes safety, inclusivity, and workplace vibrancy. Dr. Vidhya also mentors students, guiding them personally and through Biocon Biologics, while volunteering with NGOs that focus on educating and empowering women. Her dedication continues to inspire individuals and drive meaningful progress.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
During my doctoral studies at Ghent University in Belgium, I was also expecting a child. Despite the challenges of pregnancy, I successfully completed my thesis, which consisted of six chapters At Ghent University, the PhD defense process traditionally involves two stages: a private defense, attended only by the panel and the supervisor, followed by a public defense, open to friends, family, and the general public. Due to my unwavering determination, Ghent University made an exceptional decision to relax their standard procedures for the first time, allowing me to conduct my private defense remotely from India through an online platform. I successfully passed the private defense and later traveled to Belgium with my family to present my public defense and officially receive my PhD This experience stands as a testament to the power of resolute determination, demonstrating that with perseverance, any obstacle can be overcome, and the path to our goals can be cleared This incident profoundly shaped my perspective on success, fortifying my resilience and fueling my relentless pursuit of my aspirations.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
In my experience, the most effective principles of leadership stem from a blend of visionary thinking, empathy, and adaptability A leader must not only chart the course but also inspire their team to embark on that journey with conviction.
The most successful leaders demonstrate integrity, dedication, and resilience, setting a standard for others to follow As Mahatma Gandhi profoundly stated, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” Adaptability is crucial in today’s ever-changing landscape Leadership is not a rigid structure, but a dynamic and evolving process As Charles Darwin famously observed, “It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.” The ability to navigate challenges and adapt to unforeseen circumstances is essential for steering teams toward sustained success
A leader must also be able to articulate the vision, listen actively, and provide constructive feedback.
“The art of communication is the language of leadership,” James Humes wisely noted, underscoring the importance of dialogue in fostering collaboration and unity In a wrap, a combination of inspiration, leading by example, adaptability, and clear communication creates the foundation for successful leadership, propelling teams and organizations toward their goals.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been indispensable forces in sculpting my professional journey Both have played a critical role in providing invaluable guidance, fostering my personal and professional growth, and enhancing my ability to overcome obstacles. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to encounter mentors whose wisdom has illuminated my path, offering both profound professional insights and unwavering personal encouragement.
As Aristotle astutely stated, “What we learn to do, we learn by doing ” It is through the hands-on mentorship of these figures that we hone our skills and evolve in our careers.
A mentor need not necessarily be an individual with whom you engage on a regular, one-on-one basis The key to identifying a mentor lies in maintaining an open mind and a heightened sense of awareness. Inspirational leaders, regardless of their proximity, can serve as powerful mentors I have been privileged to have mentors who took a personal interest in my success and who played an instrumental role in shaping my professional trajectory.
It is intriguing how certain mentors seem to choose you, offering their guidance with a genuine commitment to your development One must remain vigilant and receptive, ensuring that such invaluable mentors are not overlooked during the course of one’s journey Above all I am honored and proud to mention that the founder and chairperson of my organization Padma Bhushan Dr.Kiran Mazumdar Shaw has inspired me through my scientific career with her indomitable determination to take India on Global stage
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
Navigating the highly competitive and continually evolving Biopharma sector necessitates agility and a
constant readiness to adapt to technological advancements and market shifts, ensuring that the products we develop remain impactful. While science is undeniably the cornerstone of the Biopharma industry, from a business standpoint, being the first to market often emerges as a crucial determinant of success a formidable challenge in itself At the same time, operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness are pivotal in establishing a dominant market position, where analytical thinking becomes an essential asset
Moreover, actively listening to and embracing insights from stakeholders, while maintaining a comprehensive, 360-degree perspective, is fundamental to becoming an accomplished professional
That said, success in business holds little substance without a solid ethical foundation. The vision and mission of any industry must be grounded in ethical principles, as these are the true catalysts for sustained success
In conclusion, an ethics-driven approach, coupled with analytical thinking, vigilance, and expertise, forms the bedrock for thriving in this industry, particularly in my field
Actively listening to and embracing insights from stakeholders, while maintaining a comprehensive, 360degree perspective, is fundamental to becoming an accomplished professional.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
My advice to young, aspiring minds is to ‘digitally detoxify’ before embarking on a mission to success Disconnecting from digital distractions is essential for maintaining undivided focus in our professional endeavors. Technology should only be employed when it directly serves the objectives of our mission We live in an age where the constant exposure to media and public opinion can overwhelm us. Focusing on the successes and failures of others can often detract from the importance of forging one’s own path
Today’s young minds should learn to derive motivation from even the most seemingly insignificant sources For instance, a PayTM barcode could inspire the creation of a user-friendly application Every aspiring individual should approach their journey with an attitude of continuous learning, evolution, and reflection sometimes in solitude, sometimes in collaboration Adaptability to change and receptivity to ideas from all generations and perspectives are key components of success.
Furthermore, no dream can be realized without a deep, unwavering foundation of knowledge and analytical acumen. It is paramount to cultivate as much expertise as possible in our chosen field, for it is this knowledge that forms the bedrock of effective leadership and long-term success.
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Gagan Arora, the Founder and President of Vertex Group, has created an impressive workplace that is ranked 19th among the 50 Most Innovative Companies across the globe. With over 21 years of experience, Mr. Arora is known for his innovative vision and leadership. Vertex Group operates in 7+ countries with a team of 4000+ employees, spanning across 60+ languages and industries. Mr. Arora serves as the Chairman of the Foreign Investors Council and holds the position of Trade Commissioner - India to Nigeria (IATC) and is also a member of the Forbes Technology Council. He is a 7-time winner of the ‘Best CEO’ award, and has also been facilitated with ‘40 under 40’ & ‘Asia’s Youngest Entrepreneur’. In just 7 years, Arora has successfully expanded Vertex Group to 7 countries, establishing himself as a global magnate and tech trailblazer. His entrepreneurial spirit, dedication, and business acumen shine brightly, making him a pioneering entrepreneur and a true leader in his field.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
Accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful was leading the successful implementation of a large-scale BPO transformation project. This involved streamlining client operations, optimizing workflows, and introducing innovative technological solutions The project not only resulted in significant cost savings for the client but also enhanced service delivery, leading to improved client satisfaction and long-term partnerships. This achievement shaped my professional journey by showcasing the power of combining strategic leadership with operational excellence. It solidified my reputation as a problem-solver and innovator, enabling to take on more senior roles and build a track record of driving transformation in the BPO sector As a result, I was able to broaden his scope of influence within the industry and gain the trust of key stakeholders, shaping trajectory toward leadership positions.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Effective leadership is built on a clear vision, empathy, adaptability, empowerment, and continuous improvement A strong vision aligns team goals with organizational objectives, while open communication
and empathy foster trust and collaboration. Adaptability helps leaders guide teams through change, and empowering team members drives accountability and innovation A commitment to continuous improvement ensures growth and competitiveness, leading to highperforming teams and organizational success.
Effective leadership is built on a clear vision, empathy, adaptability, empowerment, and continuous improvement.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been essential in shaping my career Mentors provided valuable guidance and helped me develop leadership skills, while collaboration with diverse teams fostered innovation and problem-solving.
Both have encouraged continuous learning, personal growth, and meaningful relationships, leaving a lasting impact on my professional journey.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In an ever-evolving industry, the key skill for staying innovative and relevant is adaptability Embracing change, being open to new ideas, and continuously learning are crucial to staying ahead.
A growth mindset, which involves viewing challenges as opportunities for development and being willing to experiment with new technologies and approaches, is essential. This mindset helps individuals and organizations pivot quickly, drive innovation, and remain competitive in a rapidly changing landscape.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
For aspiring professionals, key lessons for success and recognition include continuous learning to stay adaptable, building strong relationships for growth, resilience to overcome setbacks, consistently delivering value, and embracing leadership by taking initiative and supporting others
These principles help establish a strong foundation for career advancement and earning recognition.
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Hardik Shah is a seasoned pharmaceutic ence. He holds M.Pharm and MBA in Pharma Marketing from NMIMS University, Mumbai. With diverse expertise in product management for domestic and global pharmaceutical markets, he has worked across acute and chronic therapies, including Respiratory, Critical Care, Ophthalmology, Nephrology, CNS, and Pain. He has worked in reputed companies such as Intas, Eris and La Renon.
Currently serving as the Global Therapy Lead at Zydus Life Sciences, Hardik oversees CNS and Pain therapies across more than 10 countries, including Sri Lanka, Myanmar, the Philippines, Mexico, South Africa, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and FWA. His key responsibilities span new product identification, product registration, brand launches, brand positioning, strategy formulation, brand initiatives, patient support programs, and empowering field forces.
Hardik is a strategic thinker and a results-driven leader, dedicated to improving patient outcomes through innovative solutions and impactful therapy initiatives.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
A pivotal accomplishment in my career in pharma marketing was leading the launch of a groundbreaking therapeutic product in Intas which is launched 1st time in India for Nephrologists, as Denosumab which is indicated to treat osteoporosis associated with CKD It has benefited to more than 1000 patients in India within a year. This success stemmed from a data & science driven strategy combined with an innovative physician engagement campaigns along with unique patient support initiatives The achievement reinforced the importance of aligning marketing initiatives with patient needs and market gaps. It also positioned me as a leader capable of driving transformative results, opening doors to greater responsibilities and opportunities to mentor emerging talent
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Effective leadership in pharma marketing relies on fostering a culture of trust, transparency, and accountability Empowering team members through clear objectives, consistent feedback, and autonomy in decision-making has been particularly impactful.
Additionally, focusing on cross-functional collaboration between medical, sales, and regulatory teams ensures alignment A customer-centric approach where the team understands the patient journey and physician expectations drives impactful campaigns and builds organizational success.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been cornerstones of my growth. A mentor early in my career taught me the value of empathetic communication and strategic storytelling, both critical in pharma marketing Collaborative projects with cross-functional teams helped me understand the nuances of medical science and regulatory landscapes These experiences cultivated my ability to bridge science with market dynamics, enhancing my strategic contributions
Empowering team members through clear objectives, consistent feedback, and autonomy in decision-making has been particularly impactful.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
Adaptability paired with continuous learning is crucial in the dynamic pharma industry Staying informed about advancements in digital health, patient-centric marketing, and data analytics enables innovation A mindset of curiosity, combined with a readiness to embrace change and learn from failures, ensures sustained relevance For example, leveraging AI to personalize marketing campaigns has kept me ahead in an ever-evolving competitive landscape
Never underestimate the power of perseverance and ethical practices authenticity and integrity are as critical as expertise in achieving lasting success.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
Focus on building a deep understanding of both the science behind products and the needs of patients and physicians. Cultivate strong analytical skills to interpret market data and translate insights into actionable strategies. Networking and learning from industry leaders can accelerate growth
Finally, never underestimate the power of perseverance and ethical practices authenticity and integrity are as critical as expertise in achieving lasting success
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Hariom Mehta is a cybersecurity prof
d an M-Tech in Cyber Security and Incident Response. He holds certifications like Security+, CC, and CISSP (endorsement in process). A continuous learner, Hariom applies his knowledge to sharpen his skills daily. During his M-Tech, he interned with agencies like the Directorate of Forensic Science and Maharashtra Cyber, gaining hands-on experience in handling sensitive cybersecurity challenges. He has worked with Network Intelligence and Reliance Industries, specializing in Cybersecurity Architecture, SOC operations (as a Security Analyst and Content Developer), and Cybersecurity Engineering, with expertise in SIEM, APT, Deception, and DRM technologies.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
Across the last 7 years of my cybersecurity career, I have been blessed with senior leaders who have entrusted me with key projects/initiatives One project that has yielded exceptional results for the organization and helped improve my own skill set as well is the implementation of Next-Gen SIEM, SOAR, and UEBA systems at my current organization This initiative significantly enhanced our threat detection, automation, and response capabilities, marking a pivotal moment in my professional journey
I led the design and architecture of a robust security monitoring solution that seamlessly integrated advanced threat intelligence, automated workflows, and user and entity behavior analytics In this project, I played a pivotal role throughout the architecture design, content development, and implementation stages, leveraging my M. Tech in Cybersecurity and extensive expertise in security monitoring and threat intelligence.
This accomplishment not only expanded my technical expertise in cutting-edge security technologies but also allowed me to lead cross-functional teams, collaborate with senior stakeholders, and directly contribute to strengthening the organization’s security posture
It was a key milestone in my career, providing invaluable leadership experience and enhancing my skills in strategic planning, project management, and advanced cybersecurity solutions
Given the ever-evolving nature of cyber threats, fostering a culture of continuous learning is vital.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
With 7 years of experience in cybersecurity, I’ve identified several leadership principles that have been crucial to success:
1. Clear Communication & Vision: A well-defined and clearly communicated vision is essential for ensuring the team aligns with the organization's objectives. In the rapidly changing cybersecurity landscape, it’s critical to keep everyone informed about priorities, goals, and potential risks.
2. Empowering Teams: Trusting and empowering team members to take ownership and make decisions within their areas of expertise drives innovation and accountability In cybersecurity, where quick decisions are often required, giving teams the autonomy to act is essential.
3.Continuous Learning: Given the ever-evolving nature of cyber threats, fostering a culture of continuous learning is vital Encouraging professional development ensures that the team remains equipped to tackle emerging risks and stay ahead of technological advancements.
4. Cross-Department Collaboration: Cybersecurity
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path? doesn’t function in isolation it requires strong collaboration across IT, legal, and other business units Embedding security into all aspects of the organization creates a cohesive, proactive defence strategy.
Mentorship and collaboration have been pivotal in my career development During my academic journey, my M. Tech professor in Cybersecurity played a crucial role in providing me with a solid theoretical foundation and guiding me through complex security concepts His mentorship not only honed my technical expertise but also encouraged me to think critically about emerging cybersecurity challenges.
The guidance from my CISO and managers, they motivate me every day to do better, innovate and aim higher Working closely with them has enhanced both my technical skills and my ability to think strategically and lead effectively. Their mentorship has broadened my understanding of the business side of cybersecurity, helping me align security strategies with organizational objectives. Their insights into risk management, decision-making, and communication have significantly shaped my leadership approach
These invaluable relationships have reinforced the importance of continuous learning, collaboration, and strategic thinking in my career progression.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In the rapidly evolving field of information security, the key mindset for staying innovative and relevant is a commitment to lifelong learning. With constant advancements in technology, emerging security threats, and evolving regulations, it's essential to stay informed Pursuing certifications such as CISSP, Security+, and CC along with specialized courses, helps me expand my knowledge and stay ahead of the latest trends and tools in security
Equally important is cultivating a problem-solving
mindset Information security is not just about managing current risks but also anticipating and addressing future challenges. By thinking critically and creatively, and leveraging technical expertise gained through certifications and training, I can proactively address vulnerabilities and emerging threats Ultimately, staying connected with the broader security community and continuously enhancing my skill set enables me to remain innovative, relevant, and capable of leading impactful security strategies
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
For aspiring professionals looking to make their mark in information security, especially in design, architecture, engineering, and solution deployment, here are the key lessons I’ve learned:
1.See the Bigger Picture: Effective security design isn't just about technology it's about understanding business needs, regulatory requirements, and user behaviour Always consider how your security solutions fit into existing systems and align with broader organizational goals.
2. Make Security a Priority from the Start: Security should be ingrained in the design and architecture phases, not treated as an afterthought Integrating security controls early ensures that defences are robust and scalable throughout the solution lifecycle.
3. Value Hands-On Experience: While certifications and theoretical knowledge are important, real-world experience is where true learning happens Engage in actual deployments, troubleshoot issues, and adapt solutions to evolving threats to gain a deeper understanding of secure architecture.
4.Stay Agile and Adapt: Information security is constantly evolving Keep up with new technologies, emerging threats, and industry trends. Being adaptable to new tools, methodologies, and frameworks is essential for remaining relevant in the field
5. Collaborate and Learn from Others: Building strong relationships with peers, mentors, and cross-functional teams is crucial. Collaboration fosters innovation, and learning from others’ experiences helps you avoid common pitfalls while advancing your career
Jitender Kumar is an experienced and highly
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
h more than 15 years of expertise in driving HR transformation and promoting organizational growth. He currently serves as the HR Head at Remsons Industries Ltd. Gurgaon Plant, where the organization has been recognized as a "Great Place to Work" for three consecutive years. Jitender is known for his visionary approach to shaping the company's workplace culture, driving HR initiatives that align with the business’s vision and mission, and fostering a culture of innovation.
His expertise spans both corporate and manufacturing environments, enabling him to navigate complex HR challenges while driving business growth. Jitender’s achievements have earned him numerous accolades, including "Employee Experience Leader" from ETHR World, "Top 100 HR Leaders" by HR Success Talk, the prestigious "40 under 40" Award by BW Business World, "HR Innovator of the Year" from HRAI, and "L&D Champion" by The Brainalytics and has earned several prestigious accolades. Jitender’s leadership continues to set benchmarks in the HR industry.
Q: Reflecting on your career accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
Reflecting on my career, one of the most impactful accomplishments has been driving HR transformation and cultural change across various organizations I have consistently focused on aligning HR strategies with business goals, enhancing employee engagement, and fostering a positive work culture.
Through initiatives in talent development, employee satisfaction, and change management, I’ve created environments that boosted productivity, retention, and morale. These efforts resulted in the successful implementation of innovative HR practices, directly contributing to organizational success
A significant milestone was the launch of development programs and the promotion of employee well-being, which led to improved retention and overall performance These experiences strengthened my commitment to people-first HR strategies that align with business objectives. The recognition I’ve received, including Employee Experience Leader from ETHR World, Top 100 HR Leaders from HR Success Talk, and 40under40 from BW People, validates the impact of these initiatives and reinforces my leadership in HR
Navigating HR challenges across diverse sectors, from manufacturing to corporate, has enhanced my ability to adapt and lead strategically It has deepened my
importance of effective communication, leadership, streamlined HR processes, and data-driven decisions to drive sustainable growth
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Effective leadership, in my experience, is built on clear communication, empathy, and empowerment. A successful leader fosters an environment where team members feel heard, valued, and motivated to contribute their best One essential strategy is aligning individual goals with organizational objectives, ensuring that everyone is invested in the company’s success.
Additionally, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development is key Leaders should invest in employee growth through tailored training programs, mentoring, and regular feedback, which cultivates skill enhancement and boosts morale. Transparency and adaptability are also vital, especially during times of change Leaders who communicate openly about challenges, provide clarity, and support teams through transitions inspire trust and improve overall engagement.
By applying these principles, I have been able to guide my teams and colleagues toward achieving both personal and organizational milestones. Creating a culture of openness, trust, and mutual respect has allowed me to create high-performing teams that consistently exceed goals and drive organizational success These strategies are the foundation of any thriving, results-driven
workplace My management team actively supports and guides me in creating the best workplace, and I am continuously learning in the process.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have played a critical role in my career development. I’ve been fortunate to learn from several inspiring mentors who have significantly shaped my leadership style These mentors emphasized the importance of active listening, adaptability, and empowering others to reach their full potential. Their guidance has been instrumental in helping me navigate challenges and refine my approach to HR leadership
Collaboration, both within my team and with crossfunctional colleagues, has also been central to my growth. At Remsons Industries Ltd., working closely with my team, boss, and senior leadership to design and implement impactful employee engagement and development initiatives has been particularly rewarding. This collective effort not only yielded industry awards and recognition but also deepened my understanding of the value of teamwork and shared knowledge
The influence of these mentors and collaborators has had a lasting imprint on my professional journey. It has reinforced the importance of fostering a culture of continuous learning, mutual respect, and shared growth These principles are integral to my leadership approach, driving both my personal and professional success.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In the ever-evolving HR landscape, agility and continuous learning are critical to staying innovative and relevant HR professionals must remain open to adopting new technologies and methodologies that enhance organizational processes. Staying ahead of trends such as data-driven decision-making, employeecentric strategies, and digital transformation is essential I focus on staying informed through industry conferences, certifications, and networking with peers,
which helps me remain adaptable to new developments The key mindset is to embrace change as an opportunity for growth rather than a challenge to overcome.
By cultivating an open, proactive approach, I’m able to implement strategies that address current issues while anticipating future needs This ensures the organization remains competitive, and employees stay engaged and motivated.
Through my commitment to innovation, I’ve been able to drive meaningful changes in every organization I’ve worked with, ensuring we stay ahead of industry shifts while fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
HR professionals must remain open to adopting new technologies and methodologies that enhance organizational processes. Staying ahead of trends such as datadriven decision-making, employee-centric strategies, and digital transformation is essential.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
The most valuable lessons I’ve learned in HR are the importance of connecting with people, investing in them, embracing change, and staying resilient Success in HR is not only about technical expertise but also about building strong relationships and empowering individuals. Focus on promoting employee well-being
and aligning personal growth with the organization’s vision to drive meaningful results
Flexibility is another key lesson. In today’s dynamic world, being adaptable to new technologies, emerging trends, and shifting workplace needs is essential HR professionals must be open to learning and integrating new tools to improve efficiency and foster innovation.
Networking within the HR community has been invaluable in this process, providing opportunities to share best practices, learn from peers, and stay updated on the latest trends
Mentorship has played a significant role in my growth. Learning from experienced leaders and offering guidance to others has shaped my leadership style and enhanced my decisionmaking
Embrace change, take on challenges, and approach your work with integrity, empathy, and passion these qualities will help you build credibility and achieve sustainable success.
Furthermore, being ever-ready for new challenges has driven my commitment to creating impactful HR initiatives that address evolving needs and foster a thriving culture.
Lastly, continuous learning and staying curious are crucial for success. Embrace change, take on challenges, and approach your work with integrity, empathy, and passion these qualities will help you build credibility and achieve sustainable success
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An Ambitious HR leader with two decades of experience, currently serves as Senior Manager of Zensar Technologies. Her trailblazing journey spans IT services with vertical domains like BFSI, HLS (Health Care Life Science), HTM (High Tech Manufacturing), Retail showcasing versatility in leading organization with various lifecycle stages. She is passionate, inspiring, firepower, creative, Innovative Subject Matter Expert in her field fostering positive & healthy work culture deriving Strategic HR initiatives with her Fresh perspectives, objectivity, and willingness to take risks believe that challenging goals can be achieved, and success can be attained if we truly believe in them and work diligently to fulfill them.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
Throughout my career, as an experienced professional, I've led numerous high-impact initiatives that have shaped both my organization and the industry. A standout achievement was my role as the Subject Matter Expert, where I became an irreplaceable Leader driving critical company-wide strategies Some of my key accomplishments include:
Exceeding performance targets consistently – always driven by the hunger to achieve more and push boundaries
Developing and implementing innovative solutions that streamlined processes, increased efficiency, and delivered tangible results.
Mentoring and counselling emerging talents, guiding them on career paths that align with both individual aspirations and organizational goals
Enhancing talent capabilities through comprehensive upskilling programs, preparing associates for new opportunities and challenges, contributing to higher project wins
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
As a leader, I believe in creating environments where individuals feel empowered, valued, and inspired to
reach their full potential. My leadership is rooted in empathy, integrity, and fostering a culture of continuous growth.
Empathy is foundational to my leadership I make it a point to be approachable and actively listen to my team. By encouraging open communication, I help individuals navigate their challenges and career paths with confidence One notable example involved guiding an associate who had been bedridden for three years By recognizing his potential, mentoring him through his recovery, and facilitating his return to meaningful work, I not only transformed his career but reinforced my belief in the power of personalized leadership
Integrity is at the core of every decision I make. I am transparent with my team and stakeholders, taking responsibility even when things go wrong I focus on finding solutions, as demonstrated when handling critical escalations whether it's turning around a highstakes situation or ensuring my team learns and grows from their experiences.
Communication is another pillar of my leadership I ensure that my team has clear visibility into expectations, challenges, and opportunities. Whether leading a ‘War Room’ during high-pressure situations or communicating organizational goals, I inspire confidence by sharing the big picture while also addressing individual concerns.
Finally, I believe in active listening and delegation. By encouraging feedback and empowering my team to take the lead, I create leaders at every level
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship is a powerful force that has the ability to shape individuals' lives and careers in profound ways. Throughout my personal and professional journey, I have had the privilege of being both a mentee and a mentor, and through these experiences, I have gained valuable insights into the transformative impact of mentorship. Below are the highlights:
Finding the Right Mentor: My journey into the world of mentorship began with the search for the right mentor. I realized that finding someone who not only possessed the knowledge and experience I sought but also shared my values and aspirations was crucial This initial step taught me the importance of aligning with a mentor who could provide not only guidance but also inspiration.
Learning from Others' Experiences: One of the most significant benefits of mentorship is the opportunity to learn from someone else's experiences My mentor shared their own successes and failures, providing me with invaluable lessons that I could apply to my own life and career This aspect of mentorship emphasized the importance of drawing wisdom from those who have walked a similar path before.
Expanding My Network: Mentorship opened doors to a wider network of professionals and like-minded individuals. Through my mentor, I was introduced to new connections, which ultimately expanded my opportunities and helped me grow both personally and professionally This taught me that mentorship is not just about the mentor-mentee relationship but also about building a broader community.
Gaining Confidence and Self-Awareness: Having a mentor who believed in me and my potential played a crucial role in boosting my confidence They encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone, take on new challenges, and believe in my abilities. Mentorship also helped me become more self-aware, as my mentor's feedback and guidance helped me recognize my strengths and areas for improvement
ADAPTABLE PEOPLE CAN RESPOND QUICKLY TO CHANGING IDEAS, TRENDS, AND EXPECTATIONS.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In a constantly changing industry, adaptability and an innovative mindset are key skills and mindsets for staying relevant and innovative:
Adaptability
The ability to be flexible, resilient, and open to change. It involves learning from experiences and using those insights to inform future actions Adaptable people can respond quickly to changing ideas, trends, and expectations.
Innovative mindset
This involves embracing new perspectives, challenging assumptions, and encouraging creative problemsolving. It can be cultivated by creating an environment that supports experimentation, risk-taking, and continuous learning
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
Embrace new learning opportunities, create by taking & leading initiatives
Build a Strong Network at Industry events & conferences
Create a positive working environment. Define your goals early for focus & motivation.
Build strong relationships & showcase your achievements
Stay Committed & true to your passion
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Kaveri’s leadership is a testament to
mpowering others to unlock their best selves while cultivating a culture of empathy and growth. Currently serving as HR Leader Domestic North at Kyndryl India, she hails from Dehradun and holds a Master’s degree in HR from TISS. With a diverse background, she has excelled in roles across HRBP, COE, DEI, PMO, and Campus head, shaping her ability to drive transformative HR initiatives and build strong organizational cultures. Passionate about mentoring, Kaveri has guided over 12 emerging HR professionals, nurturing the future leaders. Known for her creativity and integrity Kaveri consistently drives people-centric, innovative HR practices. She is a Certified People Matters Executive, a CII Strategic HR Leader, and a BWHR 40 Under 40 honoree. Outside of work, she embraces spirituality, traveling, spending time with family, and taking long walks that enrich her life.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to embrace a variety of roles that have shaped me into the leader I am today. From managing campus recruitment to driving DEI programs and leading technology-driven HR transformations, each experience has allowed me to understand the intricate balance between people, process, and performance. However, one of the accomplishments I’m most proud of is leading one of the largest HRMS automation project in the NBFC sector By leveraging technology to automate core HR functions such as recruitment, onboarding, workflows and attendance management, I was able to significantly reduce operational costs and enhance efficiency. This accomplishment reaffirmed my belief in the power of innovation and continuous improvement, solidifying my commitment to blending technology with human potential to create impactful change.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
In my experience, the most effective leadership strategies are those grounded in empathy, empowerment, and adaptability A key principle is the ability to listen deeply truly understanding the needs, concerns, and aspirations of both employees and Business leaders. This fosters trust, which is the foundation of any high-
performing team. Empowering individuals to take ownership of their work is crucial. When leaders give their teams autonomy, they not only build confidence but also foster innovation and accountability It’s also essential to create an environment where failure is seen as a learning opportunity, reinforcing a growth mindset. Equally important is the strategic integration of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) into the organizational fabric When people feel valued for who they are, they bring their best selves to work, driving creativity, collaboration, and high engagement. Prioritizing well-being through flexible wellness programs and encouraging regular breaks ensures a balanced, energized workforce, boosting productivity and job satisfaction. As the saying goes, "You can't pour from an empty cup," so fostering time for personal rejuvenation is essential Effective leadership is about balancing performance with care, empowering teams to flourish both at work and in life
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
“A true mentor doesn’t just teach they inspire you to believe in your own potential.”
Mentorship and collaboration have been the cornerstones of my career I’m deeply grateful to my mentor, Ms. Rajita Singh, whose wisdom and guidance have been transformative in shaping my journey. Alongside her, I’ve been fortunate to have supportive
Always advocate for people as I believe HR has the ability to unleash limitless potential in every individual, creating a culture of inclusion, respect, and innovation that drives organizational success.
managers and a strong personal support system my parents, husband, and younger brother, who have been my pillar of strength and encouraged me to break barriers and push boundaries
I truly believe that learning is a continuous journey, where unlearning is just as vital as learning. As the saying goes, “The more I learn, the more I realize how much there is to learn ” I’ve been fortunate to learn from mentors, colleagues, and those I lead, and their collective wisdom has been crucial in my growth.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In today’s rapidly evolving HR landscape, the ability to stay agile and adopt a growth mindset is crucial This means not only adapting to changing technologies but also continuously learning and challenging the status quo For instance, leveraging data analytics to drive talent strategies and predict workforce trends has been key to staying ahead of the curve. Additionally, being open to new ways of working whether through remote-first strategies or flexible work environments has allowed me to implement programs that are not just current but future-ready. Staying innovative also means actively championing an inclusive culture where diverse voices and perspectives shape every decision, fostering both creativity and innovation
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
My advice would be to remain curious, authentic, and open to change Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, as growth often happens when you embrace new challenges .HR is evolving quickly, and the key to success lies in being both a strategic thinker and a compassionate leader It’s essential to understand the business needs and align HR initiatives with organizational goals, whether it’s talent management, rewards, diversity, or employee wellness. Build a strong network and seek out mentors who will challenge and support you. Don’t shy away from leadership opportunities even if they seem daunting Take risks and learn from both successes and setbacks Lastly, always advocate for people as I believe HR has the ability to unleash limitless potential in every individual, creating a culture of inclusion, respect, and innovation that drives organizational success "
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
A seasoned HR leader with over wards, Talent management, Talent Acquisition, and International Project Management. Currently serving as GM - Employee Relations (Corporate) & Talent Management at Bata India, Kavita is renowned for her strategic approach to driving business success through effective people initiatives and change management. She holds multiple certifications, including Six Sigma Green Belt and Balanced Scorecard Professional, and is adept at leveraging global HR tools to enhance organizational performance. With a proven track record in talent development and engagement, Kavita is passionate about empowering organizations to thrive in today's dynamic landscape.
Q: Reflecting on your care accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
During my pregnancy, I decided to resign from my role as Regional Manager – North at an engineering organization due to health concerns When I shared my decision with my manager, I was met with an unexpected response: "Don’t quit Let’s discuss how we can support you." A week later, I was offered a global role with flexible working options, allowing me to work from home That opportunity became a turning point in my career Over the next eight years, I transitioned through four roles, managing international projects that significantly enriched my professional learning curve. This experience reinforced the importance of supportive leadership and adaptability in shaping an extraordinary career journey
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Effective leadership rests on clarity of purpose, forward thinking, and agility Empowering teams while fostering emotional intelligence, empathy, and collaboration creates an environment where employees feel engaged and productive A great leader not only drives results but also inspires trust and innovation by being adaptable and approachable
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been foundational
s accelerators for learning and innovation My mother has been my lifelong mentor, embodying values such as resilience, empathy, and the importance of celebrating small victories. Professionally, I’ve been fortunate to work with mentors and collaborators who challenged me to think differently, embrace risks, and pursue continuous improvement Their guidance has been instrumental in shaping my professional identity.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
Adaptability is the cornerstone of staying relevant in a rapidly changing industry Open-mindedness, a willingness to take calculated risks, and a drive for experimentation foster a growth mindset. These competencies enable professionals to thrive in fast-paced environments and stay ahead of the curve
Great leader not only drives results but also inspires trust and innovation by being adaptable and approachable.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
Prioritize value creation and approach failures as learning opportunities Building authentic relationships is equally crucial people connect with sincerity and trust Lastly, remain curious, embrace challenges, and never stop investing in your personal and professional growth.
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Kshitij Batra is a dynamic young H ng workplaces and empowering talent. With 12 years of experience in human resources, Kshitij has made significant contributions to his organizations, focusing on innovative talent acquisition strategies, strong HR business partnering and fostering inclusive work environments. A graduate from IISWBM, Kolkata with a Master’s degree in HRM, Kshitij quickly established himself as a forward-thinking professional dedicated to enhancing employee engagement and organizational development. He believes that cultivating a strong company culture is key to driving business success. Recognized for his ability to leverage technology and data-driven insights, Kshitij has implemented strategies that not only streamline HR processes but also elevate the overall employee experience. He is passionate about diversity and inclusion, actively advocating for initiatives that amplify the voices of all employees. As he continues to excel in his career, Kshitij remains committed to lifelong learning and collaboration, eager to learn from others and contribute to the field of HR.
Q: Reflecting on your care accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
Reflecting on my career, an accomplishment promotion that stands out as particularly impactful was when I was elevated to the position of Regional Head HR in HDFC Bank in 2019 This promotion made me one of the youngest Regional HR Heads in the Country which marked a significant turning point in my professional journey and came after several years of hard work, successful project implementations, and demonstrating leadership within my team
In my new role, I was entrusted with more strategic responsibilities, including overseeing the development of HR initiatives and leading a larger team One of the most significant projects I spearheaded was the implementation of a new Employee Engagement Framework that aimed at enhancing employee development and engagement My ability to drive this change resulted in a more transparent engagement process and improved communication between employees and management.
This promotion not only boosted my confidence but also expanded my skill set dramatically I learned about strategic planning, change management, and the importance of data analytics in HR decision-making. Additionally, I had the chance to mentor junior colleagues, which deepened my leadership abilities and reaffirmed my passion for developing talent within the organization.
was pivotal in shaping me into a more strategic HR professional, reinforcing my commitment to creating a positive workplace culture, and ultimately guiding my subsequent career advancements. It taught me the value of leading with empathy and the importance of aligning HR goals with business objectives
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
According to me, Effective leadership principles and strategies that steer teams and organizations towards success include:
Clear Vision and Goals: Establish a compelling vision and set clear, achievable goals. Everyone should understand the organization’s mission.
Effective Communication: Open, honest, and transparent communication helps build trust and encourages feedback, ensuring everyone is aligned
Agility: Successful leaders are flexible and can adapt to changing circumstances, quickly pivoting strategies when necessary
Inclusiveness and Diversity: Promoting a culture of inclusivity encourages diverse perspectives, driving innovation and collaboration.
Leading by Example: Leaders should model the behavior they expect from their teams, demonstrating integrity, hard work, and commitment
Data-Driven Decision Making: Use data and insights to inform decisions, ensuring they are
grounded in facts and improving outcomes.
Implementing these principles can significantly enhance team dynamics and drive overall success in organizations.
Understanding employees' needs and sentiments cultivates a positive workplace culture, fostering loyalty and engagement in a dynamic environment.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been crucial components in my career development and have had an influence on my professional journey in several significant ways:
Skill Development: Mentors have provided me guidance on skill enhancement, sharing valuable knowledge and experience that accelerated my learning and competence
Feedback and Perspective: Mentors offered me constructive feedback and different perspectives, helping refine my ideas and approaches.
Confidence Building: Support from mentors definitely boosts confidence and encouraged myself to take risks and pursue goals more aggressively.
Career Navigation: Mentors guided my career choices, helping me understand the landscape of the industry and make informed decisions
In terms of lasting influence, Mr. Harsh Kumar has been one who has helped shape my career profoundly. He has always provided pivotal insights and served as a role model, instilling values and work ethics that resonate throughout my professional journey
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In the ever-evolving HR industry, the key skill essential for staying innovative and relevant is ‘Adaptability’ This mindset encompasses several important aspects:
Continuous Learning: Embrace lifelong learning by staying updated on industry trends, new technologies, and changing regulations. This includes pursuing certifications and attending workshops or seminars.
Agility: The ability to respond quickly to changes in the workforce, technology, or organizational needs is crucial. Agile HR practices help in efficiently managing evolving circumstances
Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with HR technology, data analytics, and digital tools enables professionals to leverage new systems for improved decision-making and efficiency.
Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Understanding employees' needs and sentiments cultivates a positive workplace culture, fostering loyalty and engagement in a dynamic environment.
Strategic Thinking: Viewing HR as a strategic partner in business helps in aligning HR initiatives with organizational goals, driving innovation
By integrating these aspects of adaptability into their practice, HR professionals can remain pertinent and drive continuous improvement and innovation within their organizations
Viewing HR as a strategic partner in business helps in aligning HR initiatives with organizational goals, driving innovation.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
For aspiring professionals seeking recognition in their field, here are some valuable lessons I've learned:
Build a Strong Network: Cultivating meaningful relationships with colleagues, mentors, and industry leaders can open doors to opportunities and provide invaluable support
Embrace Lifelong Learning: Stay curious and invest in your personal and professional development Continuous education through courses, certifications, and workshops keeps you ahead Seek Feedback: Embrace constructive criticism as a tool for growth. Regular feedback helps identify areas for improvement and enhances your skills
Take Initiative: Be proactive in seeking out projects or responsibilities that will challenge you and demonstrate your capabilities Taking initiative showcases your commitment
Stay Resilient: Understand that setbacks are part of the journey. Cultivating resilience enables you to navigate challenges and bounce back stronger
Communicate Effectively: Hone your communication skills, including listening and articulating your ideas clearly. Strong communication fosters collaboration and helps convey your value
Focus on Impact: Prioritize making a positive impact whether on your team, organization, or industry over seeking recognition itself Genuine contributions often lead to acknowledgment
By applying these lessons, aspiring professionals can carve their paths, earn recognition, and build fulfilling careers in their fields
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Lakshmi Narasimhan stands out as an
years of transformative impact in talent acquisition, on-boarding, and digital HR strategies. His innovative approach and strategic foresight have consistently attracted top-tier talent, driving organizational excellence. Lakshmi's ability to build strong relationships across functional teams and his keen analytical skills have optimized HR processes, significantly enhancing efficiency and effectiveness. His dedication to HR transformation and process improvement, coupled with his mastery in leveraging HR analytics for strategic decisions, underscores his commitment to excellence. Holding a Master's in Social Work and HR, Lakshmi has led numerous successful initiatives in process excellence, HR systems, project management, data governance, and strategic partnerships. With strong soft skills, keen attention to detail, and an insatiable thirst for knowledge, he thrives on challenges and is dedicated to driving positive change.
Q: Reflecting on your care accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
Reflecting my career a standout accomplishment involved leading an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) implementation in the Talent Acquisition team I explored multiple ATS platforms from market and implemented the right ATS solution for Omega Healthcare.
Prior to this, the team struggled with routine tasks and limited HRIS functionality The ATS transformation revolutionized operations by:
Enhancing both candidate and recruiter experience
Reducing hiring costs
Improving data management and reporting capabilities
Notable achievements included:
Building a database of over 200,000 resumes
Achieving 43% zero-cost/direct hiring rate within 18 months
Reduced CPH
The success of this initiative not only improved immediate operations but also fostered a culture of digital transformation within the team It demonstrated how embracing technology could create significant operational efficiencies and competitive advantages. The experience shaped professional approach, encouraging to continuously seek opportunities for process improvement through digital solutions This transformation project served as a catalyst for ongoing technological advancement initiatives within the organization.
what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Effective leadership combines skills, knowledge, and personality to achieve organizational goals. Key principles include aligning with purpose, active listening, effective communication, accountability, integrity, and continuous learning. These principles foster collaboration and a positive work environment, driving success.
Key leadership styles include:
Customer Focused Leadership: Building relationships to create new opportunities.
Strategic Leadership: Anticipating challenges and planning contingencies
Change Leadership: Influencing stakeholders to adopt impactful changes.
People Leadership: Inspiring potential through coaching and mentoring
Collaborative Leadership: Building relationships across teams for shared goals
By embodying these principles and styles, leaders can effectively guide teams and organizations toward success
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been pivotal in shaping my career Mentorship has provided me with invaluable guidance, support, and opportunities, helping me develop clear short-term and long-term goals along with actionable plans to achieve them. My mentors' deep
knowledge of industry trends and best practices has enabled me to learn and implement innovative solutions
Collaboration, on the other hand, has enriched my career by allowing me to acquire new skills and perspectives It has expanded my network, created opportunities for building relationships, and honed my communication and conflict resolution skills, fostering creativity and innovation.
Two key mentors have had a profound impact on my professional journey: Dr. Nitin Barekere (VP of HR, Head of Talent Acquisition & HRSS – India & Philippines), who provided business insights, guided technology solutions, and shared cost-effective approaches, and Mr. Sriram N (GM of Talent Acquisition, Head of Digital Transformation for Talent Acquisition & HRSS – India & Philippines), who developed my soft skills, created opportunities, and offered recognition The influence of these mentors is evident in my ability to set clear goals, receive professional guidance, implement practical solutions, expand my network, enhance communication, and engage in creative problem-solving. Additionally, collaborating with HR and Technology teams has helped me develop cross-functional coordination skills, further contributing to my growth and success.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In an ever-evolving industry, the key skills and mind set crucial for staying innovative and pertinent are soft skills and a growth mind set.
Essential soft skills include critical thinking (rational analysis and logical decision-making), problem-solving (exploring and implementing solutions), emotional intelligence (managing emotions, empathy, and conflict resolution), collaboration (sharing ideas for better outcomes), and effective communication (clear exchange of information to build relationships and achieve goals)
A growth mindset is characterized by the belief that skills and intellect can be developed through dedication and hard work It fosters adaptability (embracing change and challenges), continuous learning (lifelong learning attitude), resilience (recovering from setbacks
and learning from failures), and innovation (encouraging creativity and new ideas)
This combination of soft skills and a growth mind set enables professionals to embrace new technologies, learn new skills, and adapt to shifting market dynamics, ensuring they remain innovative and relevant in a rapidly changing industry.
A GROWTH MINDSET IS CHARACTERIZED BY THE BELIEF THAT SKILLS AND INTELLECT CAN BE DEVELOPED THROUGH DEDICATION AND HARD WORK.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
Human Resources is a dynamic, people-centric profession that not only supports organizational objectives but can also drive profitability. To build a successful and rewarding career in HR, one should focus on several key principles
Adaptability, openness to feedback, empathy, and ethical standards: As the HR landscape continually evolves, we must be ready to adapt and embrace new challenges Demonstrating empathy and compassion in handling sensitive situations is essential. Upholding high ethical standards, integrity, and confidentiality, while complying with relevant laws and regulations, is fundamental to our role
Tactical to Strategic approach: Our approach should shift from operational and tactical to strategic, always considering the long-term impact of our decisions and ensuring they align with organizational objectives Strong communication skills, relationship building, and networking: Effective verbal and written communication is crucial for persuading others and should always be clear and concise In Human Resources, building strong relationships is key to fostering collaboration and achieving mutual goals
Being Resilient & Leveraging Tech: We must master the art of resilience to recover from setbacks and failures Additionally, integrating technology and automation into our routines will help us derive insights and make data-driven decisions.
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Leena Raghuwanshi is a results-dr r with 7+ years of experience in HR strategy and business partnerships. Currently an HR Specialist at PhonePe, she oversees the complete employee lifecycle of diverse workforce across multiple regions. Leena excels in Talent Acquisition, HR operations, performance management, and employee engagement, focusing on aligning HR strategies with business objectives. She has successfully managed large-scale HR initiatives and driven transformative changes. Holding an MBA in HR Management, along with certifications in Knowledge Management from Deloitte and as a Certified Trainer and Employee Engagement Expert, Leena is committed to continuous learning and impactful HR practices and delivering strong business results.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
One of the most impactful accomplishments in my career was successfully leading the implementation of an HRMS portal, a transformative project that enhanced the efficiency of employee lifecycle management and fostered better engagement across the organization. This initiative required a deep understanding of both technical and human aspects of HR, ensuring the solution aligned with business needs The success of the HRMS portal not only earned me recognition but also solidified my belief in the power of technology to optimize HR operations It shaped my career by reinforcing the value of innovation, streamlined processes, and continuous improvement. This experience taught me the importance of being versatile and proactive in problem-solving, which continues to shape my approach to modern HR practices
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Effective leadership, in my experience, is rooted in empathy, clear communication, and accountability. I believe in leading by example and fostering an environment where open dialogue is encouraged, allowing teams to feel heard and valued One key strategy is aligning team goals with organizational objectives, ensuring every member understands their role in contributing to the broader vision Empowering employees through continuous learning and development has proven successful in fostering a
motivated and engaged workforce Additionally, focusing on performance metrics and providing timely feedback helps keep teams aligned with business goals I’ve also found that adaptability and resilience are crucial traits for leaders in the ever-changing business landscape, as these qualities enable teams to stay agile and overcome challenges
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been pivotal in my career growth I have been fortunate to work with mentors who have offered invaluable guidance, challenging me to expand my perspective and leadership skills Their encouragement has pushed me to take on projects outside my comfort zone, helping me grow in areas like project management, data-driven decisionmaking and strategic thinking. Collaboration has also played a critical role, working closely with business leaders and colleagues across departments has allowed me to develop a well-rounded understanding of the organizations I've worked with. These experiences have made me realize that a leader's success is often a result of collective efforts and building strong, collaborative relationships is key to overcoming challenges and driving success Additionally, my parents have been a constant source of inspiration, teaching me the value of hard work, perseverance, and humility, which has shaped my approach to both personal and professional growth Both my parents and mentor’s unwavering support and guidance have left a lasting imprint on my approach to leadership, helping me lead with empathy, resilience, and a deep sense of responsibility.
CULTIVATING CREATIVITY IN PROBLEM-SOLVING AND FOSTERING A CULTURE OF INNOVATION WITHIN TEAMS HELPS ORGANIZATIONS STAY COMPETITIVE.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In a rapidly evolving industry like HR, Adaptability is the most critical skill for staying relevant This means being open to change, whether in technology, business practices, or evolving employee needs. Embracing a mindset of continuous learning allows one to stay ahead of trends, implement innovative solutions, and drive organizational change I believe that being data-driven is also crucial, leveraging insights from HR analytics to make informed decisions helps organizations stay agile and responsive to market demands Moreover, cultivating creativity in problem-solving and fostering a culture of innovation within teams helps organizations stay competitive. Ultimately, staying curious and willing to experiment with new approaches ensures that we remain relevant in an ever-changing landscape
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
The most valuable lesson I’ve learned is the importance of building strong relationships across the organization. Cultivating trust with both business leaders and employees is essential for driving impactful HR strategies Additionally, never stop learning HR is an evolving field, and staying updated on industry trends, new technologies, and best practices can provide a competitive edge. Don’t shy away from taking on challenging projects, even if they seem outside your immediate expertise These opportunities will allow you to expand your skill set and Constant development Lastly, always stay true to your values. Integrity, empathy, and a commitment to creating a positive work culture should guide your actions Success in HR is not just about professional milestones, it’s about the positive impact you create within your organization
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Nitika Rai is a seasoned professional g Indian Navy and the corporate sector. With a strong foundation in leadership, strategic planning, and operational management, Nitika has consistently demonstrated the ability to thrive in high-pressure environments. During her decade plus tenure in the Navy, she led critical operations and developed a deep understanding of teamwork, discipline, and decision-making under stress. Transitioning into the corporate world, Nitika successfully leveraged her military experience to drive efficiency and innovation, leading teams and projects that made significant impacts on organizational success. A firm believer in continuous learning and personal growth, she has built a reputation for adaptability, resilience, and a collaborative mindset. Through mentorship, strategic partnerships, and a commitment to excellence, Nitika has not only achieved professional success but has also inspired those around them to reach their full potential. Presently she is also undergoing a Doctorate in Business Administration from Rushford Business School Switzerland.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
One of the most impactful accomplishments in my career was the successful transition from the Indian Navy to the corporate sector. During my time in the Navy, I led several critical operations and managed complex teams under high-pressure situations, which honed my leadership and strategic thinking skills However, the shift to the corporate world required adapting those military skills to a completely different environment.
The turning point was when I spearheaded a project to streamline operational processes at a multinational corporation, leveraging my military background in risk management and efficiency. My ability to manage resources, make quick decisions, and lead teams was invaluable in driving the project to success This accomplishment not only earned me recognition within the company but also instilled a deep understanding of how transferable leadership qualities are between fields.
This experience shaped my professional trajectory by reinforcing the importance of adaptability and continuous learning. It helped me embrace challenges in diverse industries, leading to roles where I could influence large-scale strategic decisions Today, my career is defined by my ability to bridge the gap between military discipline and corporate strategy, making a tangible impact in both fields.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Effective leadership is rooted in a blend of principles and strategies that foster collaboration, growth, and sustained success One key principle is clear communication Leaders must articulate the vision, expectations, and goals clearly to ensure alignment across teams. This ensures that everyone works toward the same objectives with a shared understanding of the purpose
Another important strategy is empowerment and trust. By trusting team members and empowering them to take ownership of their work, leaders encourage innovation and responsibility Empowerment fosters a culture where individuals feel valued and motivated to contribute their best efforts.
Adaptability is also crucial In dynamic environments, leaders must stay agile, adapting strategies when necessary This flexibility helps organizations navigate change effectively, while also allowing them to capitalize on new opportunities. Additionally, leading by example builds credibility and trust Leaders who demonstrate integrity, work ethic, and resilience inspire their teams to follow suit
Finally, feedback and continuous improvement should be a part of the leadership process Constructive feedback fosters a growth mindset, helping teams learn
from successes and failures alike. When leaders create an environment where feedback is welcomed and acted upon, they ensure both personal and organizational development
These principles together drive sustainable success in teams and organizations.
Instead of seeing challenges as obstacles, those with a growth mindset view them as opportunities for development and innovation.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have played pivotal roles in shaping my career Early on, I was fortunate to have mentors in both the Indian Navy and the corporate world who guided me through critical junctures. One mentor, a senior officer in the Navy, instilled in me the value of resilience, discipline, and strategic thinking His ability to lead under pressure, while balancing empathy and decisiveness, left a profound impact on my leadership style.
In the corporate sphere, collaboration has been equally influential Working with diverse teams across different industries has broadened my perspective and enhanced my problem-solving abilities. I've learned that great ideas often emerge through collaboration, where diverse skills and viewpoints are valued A significant collaborator in my career was a colleague who challenged my thinking and pushed me to innovate,
particularly in high-stakes projects. This partnership taught me the importance of fostering trust, open communication, and shared responsibility within a team
These mentors and collaborators have left lasting imprints by encouraging me to continuously evolve, remain open to learning, and foster meaningful relationships Their guidance and support have been integral to my personal and professional growth, helping me navigate complex challenges and seize opportunities with confidence
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In an ever-evolving industry, the key mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent is adaptability The ability to embrace change, learn from it, and pivot when necessary, allows individuals and organizations to stay ahead of the curve. As industries evolve due to technological advances, market shifts, or emerging trends, those who are rigid in their thinking and practices risk being left behind.
A growth mindset, in particular, is fundamental to adaptability It encourages continuous learning, where individuals actively seek new knowledge, skills, and experiences to keep pace with industry changes. Instead of seeing challenges as obstacles, those with a growth mindset view them as opportunities for development and innovation This mindset fosters a culture of experimentation and creativity, enabling professionals to develop solutions that are relevant in a rapidly changing landscape.
In addition to adaptability, curiosity is another crucial skill The willingness to ask questions, explore new ideas, and challenge the status quo can uncover innovative opportunities and solutions. By staying curious, one can anticipate future trends and take proactive steps to remain relevant
In short, adaptability combined with curiosity creates a powerful foundation for staying innovative, allowing professionals to navigate uncertainty and consistently contribute to industry progress
Building meaningful connections with colleagues, mentors, and peers opens doors to opportunities and support.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
For aspiring professionals seeking recognition, the most valuable lesson I’ve learned is the importance of authenticity True success comes not from mimicking others but from embracing your unique strengths and values Whether in the military or corporate sectors, being true to who you are fosters trust, credibility, and respect. People are drawn to leaders and professionals who are consistent, genuine, and clear in their vision and actions
Another crucial lesson is resilience. Success is rarely linear. You will face setbacks, challenges, and moments of doubt It’s your ability to bounce back, learn from failures, and keep pushing forward that truly defines your career. Maintaining a positive mindset and staying focused on your long-term goals will help you overcome obstacles
Additionally, networking and relationships are vital Building meaningful connections with colleagues, mentors, and peers opens doors to opportunities and support Collaboration and sharing knowledge are often as valuable as technical skills
Lastly, continuous learning is essential. Never stop evolving. Stay curious, seek feedback, and embrace new experiences The ability to adapt and grow will ensure you remain relevant and well-regarded in your field
These principles of authenticity, resilience, relationshipbuilding, and lifelong learning will guide any aspiring professional toward lasting recognition and success
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Major Sumit, a seasoned Army o erated across diverse terrains in the Indian Army. Currently, he serves as General Manager (Operations & Facilities) at BHIVE Workspace, a leading Indian venture. With expertise in operations, supply chain management, project management, administration, and HR functions, he is known for his sharp analytical skills and process improvement strategies. He has successfully led projects integrating operations, logistics, HR, and risk management while resolving challenges in SCM, security, and intelligence. Major Sumit has a proven record of delivering results in demanding environments, including remote and forward areas. Before his Army tenure, he gained experience in the telecom sector, optimizing networks across major cities in Punjab. At BHIVE, he focuses on operations excellence, cost optimization, KPI development, and team building, driving efficiency and organizational growth.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
During my tenure with Assam Rifles (Nov 2017 - Dec 2020), I was posted in some of the country’s most remote areas, facing significant challenges due to a lack of electricity, connectivity, and resources I identified inefficiencies across several areas, including operations, administration, training, SCM & logistics, office procedures, SOPs, procurement, and finance Over time, frequent changes in appointments had led to a decline in quality and speed, negatively affecting troop morale, the unit’s reputation, and overall performance.
Recognizing the need for restructuring, I initiated a comprehensive review and realignment of processes This involved reevaluating existing teams, implementing changes, and ensuring due diligence in every step. Within six months, the results were evident: we saved over ₹5 lakhs, reduced turnaround time (TAT) to six hours, and reinvested the savings into improving troop amenities Our practical, on-the-job training approach helped elevate the unit’s ranking from 26th to 3rd within Assam Rifles, boosting morale
This experience taught me the importance of planning, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Later, during the India-China conflict in Ladakh, I applied these principles to manage operations effectively despite resource limitations, ensuring the safety of my team with no casualties It reinforced the value of determination and teamwork in overcoming challenges.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Effective leadership is essential in guiding teams and organizations toward success, and several principles consistently prove valuable:
a. Clear Vision and Purpose: Leaders must establish a clear, compelling vision that aligns team efforts toward a common goal Regular communication of this vision helps team members understand both what they’re working on and why it matters.
b. Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Great leaders practice empathy and leverage emotional intelligence (EQ) to build trust, resolve conflicts, and create a positive work environment
c. Leading by Example: Leaders who model expected behaviors integrity, work ethic, collaboration, and accountability set a powerful example, inspiring others through actions, not just words
d. Adaptability and Flexibility: Effective leaders pivot strategies, embrace uncertainty, learn from mistakes, and foster innovation without fear of failure, enabling continuous improvement
e. Empowerment and Delegation: By delegating tasks thoughtfully and empowering team members, leaders build trust, engagement, and allow individuals the freedom to excel while providing guidance and resources
f. Building Strong Relationships: Leadership requires trust, transparency, and collaboration. Leaders who invest in strong relationships and create safe spaces for feedback and ideas drive innovation and growth
g. Results-Oriented Accountability: Leaders balance empathy with accountability, setting clear expectations and goals while framing accountability as an opportunity for growth, not punishment
h. Continuous Learning and Development: Great leaders prioritize learning, professional development, and a growth mindset, ensuring teams stay competitive and adaptable
i. Strategic Thinking and Decision-Making: Effective leaders think strategically, analyze challenges, and balance short-term needs with long-term goals for sustained success.
j. Recognition and Appreciation: Acknowledging achievements boosts morale and motivation Celebrating successes publicly reinforces desired behaviors and fosters a positive work environment.
k. Inclusive Leadership: Inclusive leaders value diversity, leveraging unique perspectives and strengths to foster innovation and team cohesion
The most successful leaders adapt these principles to suit their team’s dynamics, inspiring and guiding people toward shared success
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been key to my career, shaping my growth and enabling impact within teams and organizations Success is never a solo journey it comes from learning, sharing knowledge, and working together toward common goals.
Mentorship: I’ve had mentors from various stages military, academia, and professional networks who guided me through challenges and shaped my leadership style. Early on, a mentor taught me the value of strategic thinking and balancing efficiency with empathy His wisdom helped me see the bigger picture and understand that leadership is about inspiring trust, not just making decisions.
Continuous Learning: Another mentor emphasized the importance of adapting and seeking new skills In leadership roles, his advice proved invaluable as I managed operations, logistics, and cross-functional teams, helping me grow beyond past achievements.
Collaboration: Working with people from diverse backgrounds has been essential in solving problems and driving success Whether in the Assam Rifles or with external partners, collaboration taught me the power of listening, idea-sharing, and finding common ground.
Team Efforts: One notable experience was leading crossfunctional teams in remote areas with limited resources Mutual respect, shared accountability, and open communication led to operational improvements and innovative solutions
Lasting Impact: My mentors and collaborators have shaped how I approach challenges. I value diverse perspectives, seek feedback, and empower others principles I now pass on to those I mentor
Leadership Approach: Collaboration remains central to my leadership style. Fostering inclusive, cross-functional teamwork not only drives results but strengthens cohesion and morale, as proven during high-stakes operations like the Ladakh conflict
In Summary: Mentorship and collaboration taught me the importance of learning, relationships, and teamwork. The lessons from my mentors and collaborators continue to shape my leadership and approach to challenges
Mutual respect, shared accountability, and open communication led to operational improvements and innovative solutions.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
The key skill for staying innovative and relevant in a rapidly evolving industry is adaptability paired with a growth mindset Adaptability allows individuals and organizations to pivot quickly, embrace change, and leverage emerging technologies or trends. For example, companies that adopted AI tools early stayed ahead in efficiency and innovation
A growth mindset complements adaptability by fostering curiosity, continuous learning, and resilience. Those who embrace challenges, learn from setbacks, and actively upskill position themselves for long-term success For instance, professionals who continually learn new programming languages, digital tools, or creative methods stay competitive despite market changes.
Together, these traits enable individuals to approach problems creatively, explore bold solutions, and remain proactive in anticipating shifts. Leaders and teams who cultivate adaptability and a growth mindset maintain a forward-thinking approach, becoming innovators in their industries rather than followers
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
The most valuable lessons I’ve learned that aspiring professionals can adopt are:
Master Your Craft: Build deep expertise by continuously learning and refining your skills Excellence always stands out.
Embrace Lifelong Learning: Stay curious and adaptable. Explore trends, take courses, and seek mentorship to grow in a changing industry
Build Authentic Relationships: Success is about people
Genuine connections with peers, mentors, and leaders foster trust and opportunities.
Take Initiative: Create opportunities by stepping out of your comfort zone, taking on challenges, and showcasing your capabilities
Resilience is Key: Failures are stepping stones. Learn from setbacks, stay persistent, and focus on progress over perfection
Share Your Knowledge: Contribute by mentoring, speaking, or writing It amplifies your impact and builds credibility.
Ultimately, success comes from combining skill, humility, and consistency while adding value wherever you go
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Mandar Kulkarni he has a 16+ years
d He has worked with Reliance retail, Reliance Brands where he was handling trainings for luxury brands like Gas, Hamleys, Brooks brother and currently employed with Smollan India as a Head People Development MESA [Middle East & South Asia] He is passionate in setting up L&D function from incubation stage, set rhythm for business trainings, set up newer territories/countries, build an agile L&D team and partnering with Business and customers is what makes him the new age leader. His interest lies in Leadership development and driving learning initiatives for the outer core part of the business. Mandar has completed his Post Graduate Program in Retail Management from Lala Lajpat Rai Institute of management and a Post graduate in HR from Welingkar Institute of management He is a certified Photographer from Photography Society of India. Recently he has completed a tailor made Leadership Excellence Program from Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode. Certifications: Mandar has been certified trainer from Dale Carnegie, certified MBTI practitioner and received the People Excellence Award during the recent global meet at Smollan India conference.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
-Reflecting back on my exciting career journey here at Smollan had a rich experience in setting up Learning & Development function and make learning at a center stage of what we do here for our clients & employees.
I was always striving to set up an in-house learning & development team which helps bring massive transformation for the organisation and build talent which is best in class across industry.
It was the day when I was announced as People Development Head India & later People Development Head for the cluster MESA within Smollan is truly a badge of pride for me.
It was always a compass set to clearly be part of this group which helps grow individuals, makes things deliver for our customers/clients passionately and has a very positive impact on lives of people who work here. This achievement made me feel accomplished
Handling multiple countries understanding different cultures and businesses makes me feels accomplished in many ways. “Excellence is never an accident, it is the result of high intention, sincere effort, right direction, skillful execution, consistency and vision to see problems as opportunities” Sense of belongingness helped me to build & nurture the career of our people.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Ability to understand business/clients problems and able to craft a learning solution around that is the biggest advantage I see while building a learning plan. The time has gone where we as L&D function operate on no man’s land and craft solution in silos “Enabling Business by Building Capabilities” is the theme here we have set for our function
What has worked in my favor is partnering strongly with business units and providing them a learning journey which helps to foster Innovation and creativity to deliver/meet business goals/objectives. Pull strategy by providing role based programmes, right content which is bespoke and contextual for learner and blended learning approach to enable learning and making it available
New age learning metrics helps us to be on track like Employee coverage, Personal Learning Days or be it Assessment scores helps to measure learning effectiveness which helps to steer team and organisation success. Future fit skills is critical for thriving in an increasingly fast-paced, technology-driven, and everchanging business dynamics As our business is evolving and new challenges emerge, individuals need a set of skills that enable them to adapt strategies Aligning business goals to training objectives helps you deliver better results which are quantifiable.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
I would like to add a metaphor here which is Salt I refer Mentorship as a Salt in once corporate journey, it is the key ingredient in one’s success, no matter how good you are at E I and competencies at work, Mentorship will always be that one ingredient which would add an immense taste to your food and so to your career. Mentorship and collaboration has played a significant role in shaping my role and few things which I can take with me lifelong both professionally and personally I been mentored by many leaders they left a lifelong impact and build a sense of maturity, cognitive load, sense making ability, how can I negotiate better, how can I present myself, deal with complex situations and the most critical is being myself and strict strongly to my Character & Values at work.
Mentoring brings the unknown strengths at surface which you are not aware or have a blind spot It changes the way you cognize and demonstrate E Q It has helped me build strong relationships, communicate effectively, and navigate social complexities. - I am great fan of Value system and having a growth mind-set, showing agility for the betterment of the organisation and our people.
“To be a good leader, one must be a good follower”
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In any industry be in Retail, FMCG, Engineering, hospitality one should have critical & creative thinking mindset and be curious to learn new things. To me Learning and continually learning is a key and a detrimental factor for an individual to evolve I have always find a time for reading a new book, article, understanding how newer technologies changing the ecosystem we operate in. Also the reason why people use to come to work has changed – people love to contribute to the growth of the organisation, lead major transformation projects and involved in more strategic discussion they feel they are evolving in their roles. Change management is very critical aspect to bring
innovation for which the leaders need a growth mindset and should really focus on building a right mindset of this team members to deliver growth Engage in activities that encourage creativity, like brainstorming sessions, mind mapping, and thinking exercises. The ability to think outside the box and come up with original ideas or solutions Practice questioning assumptions, considering multiple perspectives, and looking for deeper connections in the information they encounter. Make time for learning, explore new fields, ask questions, and stay up to date with industry trends
It’s a reminder that great leaders often start as great followers, acquiring wisdom and insights that make their leadership more impactful.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
Its important to be courageous to do new things, set new milestone, start from scratch at times and create opportunities for people within team and organisation who feel to do more Don’t be afraid to follow leaders who inspire you, It’s a reminder that great leaders often start as great followers, acquiring wisdom and insights that make their leadership more impactful Good leaders possess humility, respect, and the ability to listen, learn, and collaborate is the biggest lesson I have learned here
Bring your confident and authentic self at work, be bold to make mistakes and try out new things, be more innovative and curious to learn newer things
Develop a skill to distinguish yourself, learn to accept all sorts of feedback, reflect; Power of feedback is immense don’t under value it, maintain a realistic work-life balance; pursue your hobby or something what you like doing
Have customer centric mind-set- Put business and your customer at the center while designing/crafting a process or a learning program
I truly believe “Excellence in everything in we do” is not just a statement but our standards, we always set newer heights for the new comers to cross that benchmark here at work
FORTY
UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Mayank works as Senior People Manager at Clovia, supervising human resources strategy and performance for the brand. He leads a team of HR professionals responsible for recruiting, retaining, and developing top talent for the brand while managing employee grievances, motivation, and engagement initiatives. Mayank has over 13 years of extensive experience in operations, workforce management, operations, and technology. Mayank has played a pivotal role in the company's growth by implementing innovative HR policies and practices. At Clovia, Mayank has been responsible for introducing referral programs, employee recognition schemes, and career development plans, which have significantly enhanced employee satisfaction and productivity. He has also spearheaded several training and learning initiatives, such as online courses and workshops, aimed at developing the skills and competencies of employees. Mayank's degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering equips him with a unique blend of technical expertise and analytical acumen, which he seamlessly combines with his passion for identifying and nurturing talent.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
A key achievement that stands out in my career was driving the enlistment and onboarding of 1,200 retail experts in India in a fair six months. This activity was basic to Clovia’s development and required cautious arranging and execution Working with a little, inclined group, we utilized data-driven techniques and advanced devices like Scene and Control BI to streamline enlisting and guarantee adaptability. This involvement was instrumental in forming my approach to leadership highlighting the significance of productivity, advancement, and collaboration It fortified my conviction that enabling a group with the correct apparatuses and beliefs can lead to uncommon outcomes, setting the tone for my future ventures.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Compelling administration, in my view, could be a combination of vision, compassion, and conclusiveness. At Clovia, I centered on making an environment where straightforwardness, open communication, and adaptability were prioritized This approach made a difference in guaranteeing that groups were adjusted to organizational objectives and engaged to act independently I moreover set incredible emphasis on
data-driven decision-making, which permitted us to stay dexterous and adjust to moving requests. Overall, I accept driving by illustration is pivotal Whether in tackling operational challenges or supporting group improvement, appearing commitment to the organization's objectives cultivates belief and persuades others to do the same.
Whether in tackling operational challenges or supporting group improvement, appearing commitment to the organization's objectives cultivates belief and persuades others to do the same.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have played a noteworthy part in my proficient travel I’ve been blessed to memorize from coaches who have not as it were given direction but moreover challenged my consideration. One coach, in particular, emphasized the significance of adjusting compassion with definitiveness, which demonstrated pricelessness when tending to customer-sensitive challenges in retail I have moreover seen firsthand how collaboration drives advancement. At Clovia, victory was never accomplished in separation; it was the result of consistent collaboration over offices, whether with the innovation group or store supervisors These collaborative endeavors are key to finding unused arrangements and accomplishing collective objectives.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In an ever-evolving industry, remaining pertinent requires a development attitude. This implies ceaselessly looking for out unused information and grasping it later as an opportunity for enhancement At Clovia, we utilized information analytics to form real-time choices that made a difference and we remain ahead of patterns and optimize our operations. Remaining imaginative too requires an openness to modern innovations and techniques. Similarly vital is the capacity to turn rapidly when vital, which is essential in an industry that's rapidly changing Remaining versatile, inquisitive, and proactive guarantees that you simply can lead groups and organizations through periods of change with certainty.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
My advice to aspiring experts is to focus on developing a strong body of knowledge while staying adaptable to untapped opportunities and obstacles One of the most important things I took away from Clovia was how important it is to combine human resources and innovation to increase productivity and flexibility. Building strong relationships can provide valuable experiences and open up contemporary chances, and organizing and mentoring are also essential components of career development Finally, be set up to demand calculated risks when necessary Leaving your comfort zone might result in growth and unanticipated benefits. Stay loyal to your principles and modify your decisions in accordance with your long-term goals
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Monika is a dynamic leader in talent onal ability to bridge the gap between clients and candidates by aligning the right personalities and qualifications with unique staffing objectives. With extensive experience in the Information Technology arena, she has mastered full-cycle technical recruitment, resource management, and talent development. Over her career, Monika has built a reputation for creating innovative strategies to source and deliver top-tier talent, including a pioneering initiative that helped over 500 students transition from college to thriving professional careers. Her expertise spans healthcare, state clients, ERP, data warehousing, and system/network administration, recruiting for roles at all levels, from analysts to senior executives.A master in leveraging advanced recruitment tools and nurturing vendor relationships, Monika consistently drives measurable business outcomes for her clients. Her passion for diversity hiring and her innovative methodologies have resulted in multiple client success stories, solidifying her as a trusted advisor in the staffing industry.Specializing in sourcing, recruiting, and global HR management, Monika brings strategic direction and an unparalleled commitment to excellence in every project she undertakes.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
One of the most impactful accomplishments in my career has been building a diverse talent pool, with a special focus on student talent. During my tenure, I successfully spearheaded initiatives that facilitated over 500 candidates to secure their first jobs after college, creating transformative career pathways for young professionals These efforts not only empowered students but also helped our clients by providing access to fresh, dynamic talent capable of driving innovation.
The success of these initiatives led to multiple case studies being developed, showcasing the long-term value created for both candidates and clients. This experience underscored the importance of aligning talent development with organizational goals and shaped my commitment to fostering inclusive and sustainable hiring practices.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Leadership, in my view, is about empowering individuals and fostering a sense of shared purpose Two key strategies have been particularly effective: clear communication and leading by example. Ensuring transparency in goals and expectations helps build trust,
while demonstrating commitment and adaptability inspires the team to strive for excellence. Additionally,
Collaborating with diverse teams has further enriched my perspective, enabling me to approach problems with creativity and empathy.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been pivotal in my professional journey I have been fortunate to learn from mentors who emphasized resilience and strategic thinking, teaching me the value of seeing challenges as opportunities.
Collaborating with diverse teams has further enriched my perspective, enabling me to approach problems with creativity and empathy.
These experiences have inspired me to mentor others, paying forward the guidance and support that have been instrumental in my own growth.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
Adaptability is the cornerstone of staying relevant in a rapidly evolving industry. Embracing a growth mindset and being open to learning new skills ensures that I can pivot and adapt to changing trends and technologies.
Staying curious and actively seeking feedback also allows me to identify areas for improvement and innovate solutions that address emerging challenges effectively.
Focus on building meaningful relationships and always strive for excellence in every task, no matter how small.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
Focus on building meaningful relationships and always strive for excellence in every task, no matter how small Take the time to understand the bigger picture and align your efforts with organizational goals. Stay persistent, keep learning, and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth
Recognition follows naturally when your work consistently creates value for others.
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Pallavi is a visionary HR leader who h results With a keen eye for talent and a passion for fostering high-performance cultures, she has spearheaded strategic initiatives that have significantly impacted organizational growth. Her expertise in performance management, change management, and talent development has enabled her to drive excellence and innovation across diverse global teams. From streamlining global performance management systems to launching innovative talent programs, Pallavi's contributions exemplify strategic foresight and operational excellence
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
One of my most significant accomplishments was leading the unification of global performance management systems post-merger This initiative required navigating cultural nuances, aligning diverse business needs, and streamlining processes across multiple geographies The successful implementation of this project not only improved operational efficiency but also fostered a unified global culture This experience solidified my reputation as a strategic HR leader and expanded my global perspective, opening doors to new opportunities and challenges.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
I believe successful leadership involves a combination of technical expertise, emotional intelligence, and a genuine commitment to the success of the organization and its people In my experience, effective leadership is built on a foundation of trust, empathy, and clear communication. By fostering open and honest dialogue, leaders can create a positive work environment where employees feel valued and empowered Additionally, setting clear expectations and providing constructive feedback are essential for driving performance and growth.
Moreover, a strong emphasis on employee development and well-being is crucial By investing in their professional growth and creating opportunities for learning and advancement, leaders can inspire and motivate their teams.
By fostering open and honest dialogue, leaders can create a positive work environment where employees feel valued and empowered.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been integral to my career growth I've been fortunate to have exceptional mentors who have not only provided technical guidance but also instilled in me the importance of empathy, strategic thinking, and effective communication
One mentor who particularly stands out is Dr. Ankita Singh (CPO & Board of Director - CIGNEX and Relevance Lab | CPO - Excellerent Solutions), a visionary leader, one who stressed the importance of a people-centric approach, prioritizing empathy and understanding. Her guidance has significantly influenced my approach to building strong relationships and fostering a positive work environment Mr Vijay Lakra (Director – People Operations, Blinkit), my first manager, instilled in me a strong work ethic and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His mentorship helped me develop a solid foundation in performance & talent management
Through these relationships, I've learned the value of seeking diverse perspectives and the importance of paying it forward by mentoring others.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In the dynamic world of HR, a growth mindset, coupled with a strong sense of curiosity and a strategic approach to technology, is essential for maintaining innovation and relevance. Leveraging technology, such as AI, can revolutionize HR functions By automating routine tasks, gaining valuable insights from data, and enhancing the employee experience, HR can become more efficient and effective. A growth mindset empowers HR professionals to embrace change as an opportunity for learning and development By being open to new ideas, challenges, and feedback, HR can adapt to the rapidly evolving work environment.
Curiosity fuels innovation It drives HR professionals to explore emerging trends, technologies, and approaches in the field By constantly seeking new information and perspectives, HR can identify opportunities, address challenges, and develop innovative solutions
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
For aspiring HR professionals, I would emphasize the importance of continuous learning and adaptability The HR landscape is constantly evolving, so staying updated with the latest trends and technologies is crucial. Additionally, being open to change and embracing new challenges will help you thrive in this dynamic field Seek out opportunities for professional development, such as attending conferences, workshops, and pursuing certifications. Building strong relationships is essential for success in HR. Invest time in networking with colleagues, mentors, and industry experts These relationships can provide invaluable support, guidance, and opportunities Remember, the people you connect with can significantly impact your career trajectory. Developing strong communication and interpersonal skills will help you effectively connect with people at all levels of the organization
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Pramod Ganji, the dynamic CEO o rika), exemplifies excellence in every aspect of his life At just 37, Pramod has carved a remarkable legacy, earning accolades such as the prestigious Forbes Great People Manager (2021), Fortune’s Most Dynamic Personalities (2022), and Economic Times Great People Manager (2023). A proud alumnus of the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA), Pramod combines world-class education with unparalleled strategic acumen Known for his relentless drive, Pramod leads one of the fintech industry’s most innovative startups, pushing boundaries in digital transformation His commitment to fitness mirrors his professional discipline he is a living testament to the power of balance between mind and body. Pramod’s passion for excellence extends beyond the boardroom, making him a role model for aspiring leaders. Winning the HRAI 40 Under 40 Award cements his reputation as a visionary shaping the future
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
One of my proudest achievements was starting a business vertical from scratch and scaling it to ₹1,80,000 crore in just 8 years This vertical went on to contribute over 50% of the company’s portfolio, transforming the organization’s overall performance. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance, strategic planning, and building high-performing teams It strengthened my ability to identify opportunities, drive growth, and deliver results at scale, shaping me into a dynamic leader with a deep focus on execution.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Empowering teams with trust and accountability has been a key strategy I believe in setting a clear vision, aligning goals, and encouraging a culture of collaboration and ownership. Leading by example, celebrating wins, and learning from challenges ensures a motivated team that consistently delivers results
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship has been pivotal in my journey. I’ve been
fortunate to learn from leaders who shaped my strategic thinking and problem-solving skills Collaborating with talented peers and diverse teams has further broadened my perspective, helping me find innovative solutions and achieve remarkable growth
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
Staying agile and having a growth mindset are critical The ability to adapt, unlearn, and relearn ensures relevance in a fast-changing environment. Additionally, maintaining a sharp focus on customer needs and market trends allows one to stay innovative and drive long-term success
I believe in setting a clear vision, aligning goals, and encouraging a culture of collaboration and ownership.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
Start with ambition and discipline Be proactive, take ownership, and consistently deliver value Build a strong network, embrace failures as stepping stones, and focus on results-driven execution. Success comes to those who combine hard work with a passion for continuous growth and impact
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Priyanka is an accomplished talen q p of experience in the IT industry. Since 2022, she has been with Pegasystems in Hyderabad, aligning exceptional talent with the company’s mission of empowering businesses through its innovative low-code platform. Previously, Priyanka worked with Amazon CS India, where she honed her skills in collaboration, innovation, and customer-centric solutions while contributing to delivering exceptional support for a global tech leader. Known for her adaptability and commitment to excellence, Priyanka values inclusivity and continuous learning. Her ability to foster meaningful connections has been central to her success in human resources and talent management.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
An accomplishment that stands out was leading a critical hiring drive at Amazon, which required recruiting a diverse, high-caliber talent pool for a new division within a tight deadline. Successfully delivering this initiative amidst evolving business needs demonstrated my ability to adapt, prioritize, and collaborate under pressure This experience honed my project management skills and reinforced my belief in the power of teamwork and strategic planning. It also laid the foundation for my approach to talent acquisition at Pegasystems, where I focus on building long-term relationships with candidates and aligning them with roles that foster mutual success.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
I believe in leading with empathy, fostering inclusivity, and setting a clear vision. Empathy enables understanding diverse perspectives, inclusivity ensures every voice is valued, and a clear vision provides direction and purpose At Pegasystems, these principles guide me in identifying talent that aligns with organizational goals while creating an environment where they can thrive Additionally, prioritizing continuous feedback and recognizing contributions fosters engagement and drives success
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been cornerstones of my growth At Amazon & Pegasystems, I was fortunate to work with leaders who modeled resilience, innovation, and a customer-first approach. Their guidance challenged me to think beyond the immediate task and focus on long-term impact Collaboration with diverse teams also sharpened my ability to adapt and innovate. These experiences continue to inspire my efforts to mentor others, fostering a culture of mutual learning and shared success at Pegasystems
Empathy enables understanding diverse perspectives, inclusivity ensures every voice is valued, and a clear vision provides direction and purpose.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
Adaptability and a growth mindset are crucial. The IT industry evolves rapidly, demanding professionals remain open to change and proactive in acquiring new skills I focus on staying updated with industry trends and fostering curiosity to explore emerging technologies
The more you invest in understanding your field, the better equipped you’ll be to create meaningful impact.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
First, never underestimate the value of continuous learning and curiosity The more you invest in understanding your field, the better equipped you’ll be to create meaningful impact Second, building strong relationships success is often rooted in collaboration and mutual respect. Lastly, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth At both Amazon and Pegasystems, I learned that stepping out of my comfort zone often led to the most rewarding experiences
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Ruby brings over 10 years of experie a robust educational foundation. As a dynamic HR professional, she currently serves as a Manager of People & Culture, driven by a passion for fostering inclusive and high-performing work environments. With expertise in organizational behavior and employee engagement, Ruby has successfully led initiatives that drive both personal and professional growth within teams. She is dedicated to building a culture where individuals feel valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.
With a proven track record in designing people-centric programs, Ruby excels at building trust, collaboration, and continuous development across all levels of the organization. Her leadership has been instrumental in aligning human resource strategies with broader business goals, resulting in improved employee satisfaction, retention, and productivity. A strong advocate for leveraging data and innovative approaches, Ruby is dedicated to creating workplace experiences that are adaptive and future-ready. Her leadership is defined by empathy, integrity, and a commitment to positive, sustainable change.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
One of the most impactful accomplishments in my career was successfully implementing a company-wide employee engagement initiative that transformed our organizational culture Early in my role as Manager of People & Culture, I identified a gap between employee satisfaction and business performance. To address this, I introduced regular feedback systems, personalized career development programs, and well-being initiatives that supported both personal and professional growth
The initiative led to improved engagement, reduced turnover, and a long-term cultural shift It empowered employees to align personal goals with the company’s vision, fostering trust, community, and shared growth, which boosted retention, productivity, and overall success.
This experience shaped my leadership philosophy, reinforcing my belief in a people-first approach and my commitment to creating environments where employees feel valued and heard. Since then, I’ve prioritized talent development, inclusivity, and aligning HR initiatives with organizational goals This accomplishment solidified my passion for people development and culture-building.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
In my experience, several leadership principles have been key to driving team and organizational success Firstly, empathy is crucial. Understanding employees' individual needs and challenges builds trust and creates a supportive culture that drives engagement and performance
Second is empowerment. Giving employees autonomy to make decisions and take ownership fosters responsibility and innovation, motivating them to invest in the organization’s success
Clarity of purpose is essential. When teams understand the organization’s vision and their role in it, they stay focused and motivated Regular communication and feedback maintain this alignment
Lastly, continuous development is vital. Encouraging a growth mindset and providing learning opportunities keeps teams agile and resilient, fostering ongoing improvement
In summary, leading with empathy, empowering individuals, ensuring alignment, and prioritizing development are principles that consistently drive success
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been central to my career, especially as Manager of People & Culture Mentorship provides invaluable guidance, accelerating personal and professional growth. I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who shaped my leadership approach. One mentor taught me the importance of leading with empathy and active listening, highlighting the role of emotional intelligence in building trust and fostering a positive workplace culture.
Collaboration has been vital for organizational success Working with colleagues from diverse backgrounds has taught me to harness people’s strengths to achieve common goals. It reinforced my belief in collective intelligence that working together leads to more innovative and effective solutions
Both mentorship and collaboration have significantly shaped my leadership style, culture-building approach, and commitment to fostering strong, collaborative teams
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In an ever-evolving industry like People & Culture, the key skill for staying innovative and relevant is adaptability The pace of change whether driven by technology, shifting workforce expectations, or new business models demands leaders remain flexible and open to continuous learning. Embracing change allows us to stay ahead and lead with purpose.
A growth mindset is equally essential Viewing challenges as opportunities fosters a culture where innovation thrives. Teams that adapt, experiment, and find creative solutions, such as using data-driven insights or adopting new technologies, stay at the forefront
Maintaining empathy and understanding people’s evolving needs is also critical As the workforce becomes more diverse, staying attuned to these shifts
ensures we develop relevant programs and solutions Ultimately, innovation requires adaptability, a learning mindset, and a strong connection to people’s needs, enabling us to lead with vision and empathy
Success comes from the ability to inspire, empower, and develop others, creating a positive ripple effect throughout the organization.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
For aspiring professionals seeking recognition in the People & Culture field, the most valuable lesson is to prioritize people-first leadership. Building strong, authentic relationships and fostering trust and inclusivity is key Success comes from the ability to inspire, empower, and develop others, creating a positive ripple effect throughout the organization. Another important lesson is the power of continuous learning The field is constantly evolving, so staying curious and open to new ideas whether about emerging technologies, leadership practices, or employee trends is essential for staying relevant. Be proactive in seeking new knowledge through mentorship, formal education, or hands-on experiences
Lastly, resilience and adaptability are crucial. Challenges will arise, but how you respond defines your path Stay solution-oriented, focus on what you can control, and embrace every opportunity as a chance to grow
In sum, focus on developing strong relationships, continue learning, and remain adaptable These foundations lead to long-term success and recognition in People & Culture.
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Rumela is a passionate and transfor equity, and inclusion (DEI), currently serving as the Global DEI Head and Head of Culture, Values, and Belongingness. Known for her unwavering dedication to fostering inclusivity, Rumela has become a driving force in creating workplaces where every individual feels valued. Her expertise in DEI is complemented by her profound commitment to social impact, demonstrated through her influential role as the Secretary for Rotary International, where she champions initiatives for positive change.
In addition to her professional achievements, Rumela is a classical dancer and stage performer, showcasing her creativity and discipline in the arts. She is also a devoted full-time mother, gracefully balancing her career and family life. A captivating orator and strategic visionary, Rumela leads by example, inspiring others with her thought leadership and relentless drive to make the world a more inclusive, compassionate place for all. Her work continues to resonate, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she encounters.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
My career journey has been defined by several key accomplishments, beginning right after my MBA internship Following two months of internship, I received a pre-placement offer from the same company and joined part-time while completing my second year of MBA. During this time, I was entrusted with structuring HR policies and growing the team from just four to over fifty employees This experience instilled a deep sense of achievement and significantly boosted my confidence
As my career progressed, I continued to achieve milestones For instance, within six months of joining my third organization, I was awarded the "Best Performer of the Quarter " I also received multiple recognitions for driving initiatives and implementing HR programs that not only enhanced performance but also fostered increased collaboration across cross-functional teams
A pivotal moment in my career came during my tenth year when I took a two-year maternity break due to health reasons The real challenge began when I decided to return to work, which introduced me to the concepts of women empowerment and the "back to work" movement. Since then, I have focused on Diversity,
Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), which continues to inspire me every day My ultimate goal is to create an inclusive workspace where performance flows naturally from a sense of belonging, ensuring that every individual feels safe, valued, and motivated each day.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
In my experience, a number of leadership principles and strategies have been highly effective in driving teams and organizations toward success
First, empowering team members is essential. I have seen leaders building trust and providing their teams with the autonomy to take ownership of their work When their team felt trusted and valued, they became more motivated and engaged, leading to higher productivity and innovation.
Second, clear and open communication is crucial Articulating goals, expectations, and feedback in a way that is transparent and easy to understand is very important. This ensures alignment across the team and helps individuals see how their efforts contribute to the organization’s broader objectives
Collaboration and inclusivity are also key strategies. By promoting a culture of teamwork and encouraging diverse viewpoints, leaders can help teams solve
problems more creatively and effectively An inclusive approach, where everyone’s voice is heard, fosters stronger decision-making and a deeper sense of ownership among team members
Adaptability is another vital trait In today’s rapidly changing work environment, leaders must be flexible and open to change. Leading teams through transitions with a positive attitude ensures continued growth and progress
Finally, leading by example is fundamental. Leaders who model the values, work ethic, and behaviour they expect from their teams inspire commitment and drive high performance
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
As HR professionals, we regularly engage with diverse teams, individuals, and leadership, making effective communication and teamwork crucial Collaboration within and beyond the HR department fosters knowledge-sharing, problem-solving, and the development of solutions that align with the organization’s goals
It encourages a sense of unity and allows us to learn from the experiences of others, expanding our own perspectives and expertise
Mentorship, on the other hand, offers invaluable guidance and support throughout one’s career. A mentor in HR can help navigate the complexities of the field, offering advice on career progression, decisionmaking, and handling challenging situations They provide a broader perspective on the industry, help refine skills, and offer insights into leadership and organizational dynamics.
A strong mentoring relationship can boost confidence and resilience, empowering individuals to make better decisions and grow professionally.
I have been incredibly fortunate to have had several mentors throughout my life who have guided and shaped me into the person I am today.
Mr. Chella Pandian Pitchai, Global Head of DEI, Culture & Talent in Biocon Biologics
Chella has profoundly influenced my approach to leadership. He taught me the value of inclusive leadership, helping me understand how to lead with empathy, respect, and a deep sense of understanding for diverse perspectives His guidance has shaped my leadership style, encouraging me to create environments where everyone feels valued and heard. Additionally, Chella helped me build my personal brand, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and visibility in the professional world. His insights have been instrumental in shaping my career trajectory and my ability to connect with others
Mr. Tanmoy Banerjee, People Leader – Global Banking Technology Development in FIS Global
Tanmoy instilled in me the importance of collaboration and staying pertinent in every decision I make He showed me how to work effectively with others, bringing diverse ideas and perspectives to the table to create solutions that truly add value Tanmoy also taught me how to remain relevant in an ever-evolving industry by staying informed and adaptable His mentorship has helped me focus on the bigger picture and make decisions that align with both immediate goals and long-term vision
Mr. Sumit Kumar Bandyopadhyay – Retired as General Manager – Bhilai Steel Plant, Steel Authority of India Ltd. (my father)
My father, Sumit Bandyopadhyay has been a crucial figure in my career too, imparting valuable lessons on influential leadership and persistence. He taught me how to lead by example, with integrity and the ability to inspire others through action, not just words He emphasized the power of persistence, reminding me that setbacks are part of the journey, and that resilience is key to achieving long-term success. His mentorship has been a source of continuous motivation, helping me push through challenges and remain focused on my goals, no matter how difficult they may seem
Every problem, no matter how difficult, can be solved when approached with the right mindset and a collaborative spirit.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In an industry that is constantly evolving, having a deep understanding of the sector is essential. It's important to be aware of what strategies work and what doesn’t, as this knowledge allows you to navigate changes effectively Staying current with the latest trends, innovations, and shifts in the industry is also crucial.
Continuous learning and actively seeking updates on emerging technologies, methodologies, or changes in regulations will ensure that you remain well-informed and ahead of the curve.
Innovation stems from the ability to think critically and deeply about existing processes, challenges, and opportunities. It requires a mindset that is open to new ideas and willing to experiment with different approaches Being able to think outside the box and anticipate future needs is key to driving progress
Moreover, staying pertinent requires making informed decisions that are aligned with the changing demands
of the industry It's not enough to simply be innovative; the solutions you bring must be relevant and practical in the current landscape. This combination of deep industry knowledge, continuous learning, and forwardthinking is what will enable professionals to remain innovative and ensure that their contributions continue to have an impact in a rapidly changing environment.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
Over the past 16 years, one of the most important lessons I've learned is that persistence and resilience are crucial for achieving success. There will always be challenges, but with a steadfast commitment and the willingness to seek help when necessary, nothing is impossible.
The ability to collaborate with others and build a strong network is another invaluable tool These connections and collaborations can open doors and provide support that can significantly contribute to reaching long-term goals.
Throughout my career, I have worked in various aspects of HR, where compassion, combined with logical reasoning, has consistently helped me overcome obstacles.
Every problem, no matter how difficult, can be solved when approached with the right mindset and a collaborative spirit. It’s important to remember that success isn’t just about the highs; the lows are just as essential
The setbacks and challenges along the way provide valuable lessons that shape you and contribute to your growth, both personally and professionally.
Embrace those difficult moments, learn from them, and use them as stepping stones to become better at what you do.
This journey is not just about achieving goals but evolving through every experience
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Sai Swaroop Nannapaneni is a profe mmitment to building teams, fostering collaboration, and driving innovation. With extensive experience in talent acquisition and leadership, he has been at the heart of large scale recruitment efforts and transformative initiatives that have shaped the trajectory of organizations like Huddl.ai and Quantela Inc.
Sai’s journey is grounded in the belief that people are the cornerstone of innovation. He has a gift for aligning individual potential with organizational goals and building teams that meet and redefine expectations. His approach is guided by values of mentorship, continuous learning, and resilience qualities that have enabled him to navigate challenges and adapt to a rapidly evolving industry. For Sai, leadership is as much about purpose as it is about results. He draws inspiration from the natural world, embracing its lessons on adaptability and accountability to inform his work. This philosophy, coupled with his ability to inspire trust and confidence, has made him a force for meaningful change in the workplaces he has touched.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
I have always been driven by the desire to build something meaningful My early startup partially realized this vision, but it taught me a critical lesson: converting ideas into reality requires a team that shares and breathes the same ideology. Success is a collective journey
During my tenure at Huddl.ai, I worked closely with passionate leaders focused on creating futuristic products I embraced their vision and assembled a team capable of transforming it into reality Talent acquisition, for me, goes beyond matching skills to roles; it’s about foreseeing potential and building bridges that align individuals' strengths with organizational goals.
I led the effort to form a team that not only delivered but also believed in their collective power to shape the future. Together, we created an AI-based AV product that stood out in a competitive landscape dominated by industry giants
This experience profoundly shaped my career, teaching me the value of long-term vision and the resilience needed to navigate challenges. It reinforced my belief in people as the cornerstone of innovation and
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success? strengthened my ability to align talent strategies with transformative outcomes.
In my experience, the most effective leadership principles revolve around balancing agility and stability. While the world has embraced agile methodologies, I believe they should work in harmony with existing systems to foster trust and continuity within teams Stability provides a foundation where employees feel secure, and agility creates avenues for growth and innovation. Together, they drive organizational success
A clear vision from leadership is crucial. It serves as a compass, aligning team efforts and providing a sense of purpose Equally important is fostering an open culture of feedback where employees feel empowered to voice their ideas and concerns Transparency and active listening pave the way for collaborative success, ensuring that every team member feels valued.
Effective leaders are grounded, unbiased, and approachable mentors They recognize individual potential and invest in their teams' development. During my career, I’ve seen firsthand how mentorship transforms not just the mentee but the leader as well Encouraging accountability while offering guidance
creates a balanced environment where individuals thrive.
Leadership is not about control; it’s about inspiring others to exceed their own expectations By being adaptable, empathetic, and forward-thinking, leaders can steer teams through challenges and towards a shared vision of success.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Throughout my career, mentorship and collaboration have played a pivotal role. I’ve always sought to learn and grow from those around me. At each phase, I was fortunate to have mentors who provided invaluable guidance and wisdom When my startup began to struggle, I remembered a quote from my uncle, Dr Rayani Hanumanth Rao: "Predict and Act." This advice helped me make the difficult decision to close the company, knowing that the steps I took then would benefit all employees down the line
In my role at Huddl, when funding was delayed and I needed to maintain employee trust in the leadership, my CEO, Mr Krishna Yarlagadda, offered a powerful quote: "We all are here for a reason " It reinforced that everyone was united by a shared purpose, empowering us to stay connected and supportive. Over the past four years as an HR professional, mentorship from leaders like Mr Harish Rajamani, who taught me to handle any situation with composure, and Ms Janani Prakaash, who instilled a fearless attitude to advocate for employees, have been instrumental. Additionally, Mr Arun Prasad’s emphasis on advancements has been a constant source of inspiration Each of these mentorship relationships has shaped who I am today, reinforcing the importance of learning from others and fostering a collaborative spirit.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
Navigating an industry that constantly evolves requires a mindset of perpetual growth and adaptability Continuous learning is not just a choice; it’s a necessity.
Innovation thrives on curiosity. Being willing to question the status quo and explore uncharted territories sets apart those who lead from those who follow.
The words of Dr. Pamidi Kotaiah, “Live with technology and upskill every minute,” have deeply influenced my approach Staying relevant means embracing the pace of technological change and integrating advancements into everyday practice. It’s about evolving as the world evolves.
Innovation thrives on curiosity Being willing to question the status quo and explore uncharted territories sets apart those who lead from those who follow. Taking calculated risks and learning from failures are pivotal in staying ahead of the curve Mistakes should be viewed as opportunities to refine and grow
In today’s world, where technology is reshaping how we interact and work, the ability to bridge the gap between human intuition and machine efficiency is crucial Building this synergy requires not only technical skills but also emotional intelligence to lead teams through change.
Ultimately, staying innovative is a journey of constant reinvention adopting a mindset that balances confidence with humility and boldness with
thoughtfulness. It’s about embracing the new, learning from the old, and fostering a culture of creativity and exploration within organizations
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like mine, the journey begins with cultivating resilience, adaptability, and a relentless commitment to learning In an ever-changing world, the ability to adapt and grow is paramount Staying relevant requires not just acquiring new skills but also having the courage to unlearn outdated ones and embrace fresh perspectives.
Mentorship and collaboration are cornerstones of success Surround yourself with mentors who challenge and inspire you. Their wisdom can provide clarity during uncertain times. Equally important is building a network of collaborators who share your values and ambitions
Collaboration fosters innovation and opens doors to opportunities that you might not discover alone.
Risk-taking is another vital ingredient Success often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone I’ve faced challenges, from closing my startup to navigating unforeseen situations involving employer-employee dynamics
These experiences taught me the importance of predicting trends, acting decisively, and adapting swiftly Each setback was a stepping stone, shaping my resilience and broadening my perspective
To achieve long-term success, focus on nurturing a growth mindset. Stay curious, be fearless in the face of change, and approach every challenge as a chance to grow
This mindset will help you leave a meaningful imprint in your field.
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Sakshi is a visionary leader in Learnin pertise in designing transformative, usercentric training programs that drive organizational growth and performance. With a deep understanding of learning strategies, she has consistently aligned development initiatives with business objectives, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and empowering teams to excel in dynamic environments.
An authority in capability building, Sakshi specializes in identifying skill gaps and creating strategic learning frameworks that enable organizations to navigate complex challenges and stay ahead in competitive landscapes. Her exceptional project management skills, coupled with an unwavering commitment to quality and efficiency, ensure the seamless execution of high-impact initiatives within defined parameters.
A champion of innovation and collaboration, Sakshi has cultivated a culture of trust and knowledge sharing, inspiring teams to reach new levels of creativity and excellence. Her strategic foresight and ability to lead transformative efforts make her an invaluable asset to progressive organizations seeking to elevate their workforce capabilities.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
One accomplishment that stands out in my career is leading a strategic workforce transformation initiative to address skill gaps and future-proof the organization This involved designing and implementing a comprehensive learning program that aligned employee development with evolving business priorities By leveraging data-driven insights, we identified critical skills, developed tailored learning pathways, and introduced innovative approaches such as technologyenabled learning platforms, gamification, and experiential assignments
The initiative had a significant impact on both individual and organizational performance. It enhanced workforce agility, increased project readiness, and improved resource utilization, while also fostering a culture of continuous learning Employees were better equipped to meet dynamic client expectations, and the program contributed to achieving measurable outcomes such as improved productivity and employee engagement
This experience was transformative for my professional journey, as it reinforced the importance of aligning learning strategies with business goals. It allowed me to refine my ability to lead complex projects, collaborate
with diverse stakeholders, and deliver tangible results More importantly, it underscored the strategic role of talent development in driving organizational success, shaping my commitment to creating impactful, futureready programs that empower both employees and businesses to thrive in a rapidly changing environment
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
In my experience, effective leadership is grounded in three key principles: clarity of vision, empowerment, and adaptability. A clear and compelling vision provides teams with a shared sense of purpose and direction, ensuring alignment with organizational goals As a leader, I prioritize setting strategic objectives that resonate with team members and foster a culture of ownership and accountability.
Empowering teams by creating an environment of trust and inclusivity has been instrumental in driving success. I focus on recognizing individual strengths, providing opportunities for growth, and encouraging open communication. By promoting collaboration and leveraging diverse perspectives, teams can unlock innovative solutions and achieve greater impact
Adaptability is another critical aspect of leadership. In today’s dynamic landscape, being proactive in
addressing challenges and embracing change is essential. I’ve found that staying attuned to industry trends, fostering continuous learning, and being open to new approaches enable teams to remain resilient and agile.
These principles, coupled with a commitment to measurable outcomes, have allowed me to lead initiatives that drive organizational growth and transformation By focusing on both people and processes, I aim to create a culture that thrives on excellence, innovation, and sustainable success.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been essential in shaping my career and driving my professional growth Early on, I was fortunate to work under mentors who not only shared their expertise but also pushed me to take on challenges that stretched my potential. Their focus on continuous learning, strategic thinking, and leadership has significantly influenced my approach to problem-solving and decision-making I owe a great deal of my development to my mentor, who is also my current boss. Investing in mentorship both as a mentee and as a mentor has proven to be a powerful way to nurture future success
Collaboration has also played a crucial role in my achievements. Working with diverse teams and stakeholders has taught me the value of drawing on different perspectives to develop innovative and scalable solutions Whether collaborating across departments or aligning with cross-functional teams, these partnerships have consistently led to higherquality outcomes and greater organizational impact
One of the most profound lessons I’ve learned is the importance of empowering others. By fostering trust, inclusivity, and shared ownership, I’ve been able to help build high-performing teams and cultivate talent These experiences have reinforced my belief that success is best achieved collectively, through the strength of collaboration and mutual support.
Being curious, asking the right questions, and staying connected with clients, stakeholders, and thought leaders ensures that new solutions are aligned with real-world requirements.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In an industry that is constantly evolving, the key skill crucial for staying innovative and pertinent is adaptability The ability to quickly learn, pivot, and embrace new technologies, methodologies, and business models is essential Staying attuned to industry trends, understanding emerging technologies, and anticipating shifts in market dynamics are all vital for maintaining relevance
However, adaptability alone is not enough A growth mindset is equally important. This mindset encourages continuous learning, fosters resilience in the face of challenges, and promotes a culture of innovation It involves seeing change as an opportunity rather than a threat, and it drives proactive problem-solving and creative thinking.
To remain innovative, it is also essential to build a deep understanding of customer needs and market demands Being curious, asking the right questions, and staying connected with clients, stakeholders, and thought leaders ensures that new solutions are aligned with realworld requirements Ultimately, the combination of adaptability, a growth mindset, and a customer-centric approach equips individuals and organizations to stay ahead of the curve and remain leaders in their fields.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
For aspiring professionals seeking recognition, the most valuable lessons I’ve personally learnt are centered around continuous growth, collaboration, and resilience In a rapidly evolving industry, the ability to stay relevant hinges on a commitment to lifelong learning Whether through formal education, on-the-job experiences, or staying abreast of emerging trends, it’s essential to cultivate a mindset that embraces change and drives personal and professional evolution
Equally important is the power of collaboration and networking Building strong, genuine relationships with colleagues, mentors, and industry peers opens doors to new opportunities and fosters innovation.
The ability to work effectively with diverse teams enhances both your leadership and problemsolving skills.
True recognition comes from the impact you create Focus on delivering results that are meaningful and measurable, whether by driving innovation, improving processes, or contributing to strategic objectives. Impact speaks louder than titles
Lastly, resilience and adaptability are critical Challenges and setbacks are inevitable, but the ability to bounce back, learn from them, and pivot when necessary is what ultimately drives long-term success
Being authentic in your journey staying true to your values and leadership style builds trust and credibility, making recognition a natural byproduct of your contributions
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Sameer Khandelwal is a dynamic dig
s innovative strategies and measurable impact across the BFSI sector. As the Digital Marketing Manager at PNB Housing Finance ltd, Sameer has worked across various digital initiative with the company’s target audience, driving growth through cutting-edge campaigns and data-driven decision-making.
With over a decade of experience, Sameer excels in blending creativity and analytics to craft impactful marketing strategies. His expertise spans performance marketing, customer acquisition, funnel building, campaigns management, social media strategy, and content marketing. By harnessing the power of digital platforms, he has consistently achieved exceptional ROI while fostering brand growth and customer loyalty.
A strategic thinker and growth marketer, Sameer has a proven track record of aligning marketing initiatives with business objectives, making him an invaluable asset to his organization. He has been honoured with numerous awards and accolades, showcasing his steadfast dedication to innovation and excellence in the domain.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
One of the most defining moments of my career was stepping into a marketing role at a stockbroking firm a position I wasn’t initially hired for During my campus placement at NISM, I was selected for an operations role. However, during the interview, I shared some marketing ideas that resonated with the management They saw potential in my approach and offered me a marketing role instead, marking the start of my journey in this field.
Starting from scratch, I immersed myself in understanding customer behaviour, financial products, and the nuances of marketing in a highly competitive industry. I learned how to craft campaigns, drive lead generation, and collaborate with different teams to deliver measurable outcomes Those early days taught me the importance of blending creativity with data to achieve business goals.
Over time, the strategies I implemented not only boosted brand awareness but also contributed significantly to revenue growth This experience laid a solid foundation for my career in marketing and gave me the confidence to take on larger roles with greater responsibility. Looking back, this pivotal opportunity not only shaped
my professional path but also deepened my passion for marketing, setting the stage for the leader I am today.
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
In my experience, the most effective leadership approach is rooted in empathy, trust, and empowerment. I firmly believe in being a supportive leader who takes the time to understand the challenges and aspirations of the team When you genuinely listen and show that you care, it creates an environment where people feel valued and motivated.
For me, delegation and empowerment are key to driving growth not just for the organisation, but for individuals as well. I make it a point to give my team members ownership of their work, trusting them to make decisions while being available to guide them when needed This not only builds their confidence but also encourages creativity and a sense of responsibility
Another principle I stand by is involving the team in decision-making By taking their opinions into account and fostering open communication, I’ve been able to build strong relationships and a shared sense of purpose. This approach has helped us achieve remarkable results, not just because of individual effort, but because we work together as a cohesive unit
For me, leadership isn’t just about delivering outcomes it’s about helping people grow, succeed, and bring their best to everything they do. When the team thrives, success naturally follows
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
During my time at PNB Housing Finance Ltd., I had the privilege of working under leaders who instilled in me a go-getter attitude They taught me to stay resilient in the face of challenges, to never lose sight of my goals, and to aim higher, no matter the obstacles. Their unwavering support and belief in my potential were transformative in shaping my approach to problemsolving and achieving results
The leadership at IndusInd Bank profoundly influenced my understanding of data’s power. They showed me how leveraging data could drive decisionmaking and strategy, shaping outcomes in impactful ways It was a lesson in precision, foresight, and the importance of being analytical.
At Asit C Mehta Investment Intermediaries, I learned the value of humility and staying grounded The leaders there demonstrated that success and humility go hand in hand, teaching me the importance of being approachable and down-to-earth regardless of achievements
At Yes Bank, an exceptional mentor taught me the value of building and nurturing relationships with peers, colleagues, and clients. This lesson highlighted that strong professional relationships are the cornerstone of long-term success
Each of these experiences and mentors has left an indelible mark on my career, shaping my leadership style and professional outlook
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In an industry that’s constantly changing, I believe the key to staying innovative and relevant is having a
Continuous learning isn’t just about gaining knowledge—it’s about staying open to new possibilities and being willing to let go of practices that no longer work.
mindset of continuous learning and adaptability The world of digital marketing evolves rapidly, with new trends, tools, and strategies emerging all the time. To keep up, it’s essential to stay curious, embrace change, and invest in your growth
Throughout my career, I’ve made it a point to continuously learn, whether through on-the-job experiences, certifications, or formal education. Right now, I’m pursuing a Senior Management Program from IIM Calcutta, which is giving me a broader understanding of leadership, strategic decision-making, and emerging business trends. This program is helping me approach challenges with fresh ideas and a deeper sense of purpose, while also preparing me to tackle future opportunities with confidence
For me, continuous learning isn’t just about gaining knowledge it’s about staying open to new possibilities and being willing to let go of practices that no longer work This approach has helped me grow as a professional, adapt to changes in the industry, and contribute meaningfully to my organization. I truly believe that staying curious and committed to learning is what keeps you ahead in a fast-paced world
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
For aspiring professionals looking to achieve recognition in their field, I’ve found that success often comes from focusing on a few key principles
First, prioritise building strong relationships. Genuine connections with colleagues, mentors, and clients go a long way in creating trust and opening doors to opportunities Success is as much about people as it is about performance.
Second, stay humble No matter how far you go, it’s important to remain grounded and open to learning Humility helps you grow and keeps you connected to others.
Quick decision-making is another important lesson In today’s fast-paced world, being able to assess situations and act promptly can make all the difference. Waiting too long often means missed opportunities.
Above all, integrity is non-negotiable It’s the foundation of everything you do. Being honest and consistent in your words and actions not only builds trust but also defines your reputation.
Integrity means doing the right thing, even when no one is watching, and staying true to your principles, even in challenging situations.
It’s what sets you apart and ensures long-term respect and credibility in both your personal and professional life.
These lessons valuing relationships, staying humble, making quick decisions, and living with integrity have shaped my journey, and I believe they can guide anyone striving to make their mark.
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Shalini Mishra is an accomplished HR leader with over 13 years of experience in the field. Known for her strategic vision and ability to foster a positive workplace culture, she has successfully led initiatives in talent acquisition, employee engagement, and organizational development. Shalini has a proven track record of aligning HR practices with business goals, driving performance improvements, and enhancing employee satisfaction. Her expertise in building strong teams and developing leadership capabilities has made a significant impact in various organizations. Outside of work, she is passionate about mentoring emerging HR professionals and staying current with industry trends. Her commitment to creating inclusive and supportive work environments sets her apart as a dedicated leader in Human Resources.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
One of my most significant accomplishments was receiving the Tech & innovation HR Awards - 2024 for Employee Engagement Activities from the HR Association of India on behalf of SKMPL. When I joined this start up Retail Company in Chhattisgarh, we lacked an established HR department, which presented a unique set of challenges Tasked with building the HR function from the ground up, I focused on creating innovative programs that fostered employee engagement and satisfaction
Through strategic initiatives and a commitment to cultivating a positive workplace culture, we successfully transformed the organization. Today, SKMPL has emerged as a leader in the retail sector, making significant strides in Central India, Gujarat, and Rajasthan This experience was crucial in shaping my professional journey, as it underscored the importance of adaptability and resilience in a rapidly evolving environment
Ultimately, receiving this award not only recognized my efforts but also validated the collective hard work of our entire team It reinforced my passion for HR and my belief in the integral role that effective employee engagement plays in driving organizational success
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Ans - In my experience, several principles and strategies have proven effective in steering teams and organizations toward success:
1
Active Listening: Engaging in open dialogue fosters a culture of trust and helps identify team members' needs When employees feel heard, it creates an environment where they are more likely to contribute positively.
2
Empowerment: Encouraging team members to take ownership of their work promotes accountability and innovation Empowering individuals to make decisions boosts their confidence and enhances overall performance.
3
Adaptability: The ability to adjust strategies based on changing circumstances is crucial Being open to new ideas allows leaders to navigate challenges effectively and keep the team aligned with their goals.
4
Recognition: Acknowledging contributions builds morale and motivation Celebrating both individual and team successes fosters a culture of appreciation and encourages continuous effort.
5.
Leading by Example: Demonstrating integrity and transparency establishes a powerful precedent When leaders embody the values they wish to promote, it inspires others to align with those
principles
Ultimately, the path to success lies in nurturing relationships and creating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have played pivotal roles in my career, shaping my professional development and approach to leadership I have been fortunate to encounter several mentors and collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint. One significant mentor is Dr Pradyumna Pandey, the Manufacturing HR Head at Hero MotoCorp He is incredibly humble, grounded, and polite, embodying the qualities of an exceptional HR leader. With decades of experience, Dr. Pandey carries a legacy of excellence and has consistently guided me in navigating challenges and embracing opportunities for growth His emphasis on empathy and active listening has deeply influenced my management style, highlighting the importance of fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued
In addition, collaborating with talented colleagues has enriched my career. Working on cross-departmental projects has allowed me to learn from others while contributing my own knowledge This exchange of ideas has sparked innovation and improved our team's effectiveness.
In summary, mentorship from individuals like Dr Pandey, combined with collaborative experiences, has guided my journey, reinforcing the importance of nurturing relationships and supporting one another’s growth in the professional realm.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In navigating an industry that continually evolves, I believe that the key skill crucial for staying innovative and relevant is adaptability. This mind-set involves
being open to change, embracing new ideas, and being willing to pivot when necessary.
Adaptability allows professionals to respond effectively to emerging trends, technologies, and market demands It encourages a willingness to learn continuously and explore different perspectives, which is vital in fostering innovation. Those who cultivate an adaptable mind-set not only manage change more effectively but also inspire their teams to do the same
Additionally, fostering a culture of curiosity complements adaptability Encouraging questions and exploring new possibilities can lead to creative solutions and innovative approaches This mind-set supports collaboration and helps organizations stay ahead of the curve by embracing change as an opportunity rather than a challenge
In conclusion, adaptability combined with a sense of curiosity enables individuals and organizations to remain innovative and pertinent in a rapidly changing industry By maintaining these attributes, we can navigate uncertainty and continue to thrive in our endeavours
Those who cultivate an adaptable mind-set not only manage change more effectively but also inspire their teams to do the same.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
For aspiring professionals seeking recognition in their careers, I would offer the following valuable lessons based on my experiences:
Carry Empathy: Building strong relationships is fundamental in any field. Empathy allows you to understand and connect with others, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment This not only enhances teamwork but also positions you as a trusted leader.
Commit to Lifelong Learning: The landscape of our industry is constantly evolving Embrace a mind-set of continuous learning whether through formal education, mentorship, or self-directed study This commitment will keep you relevant and equipped to tackle new challenges
Stay Grounded and Humble: Recognize that success is a journey, not a destination Staying humble allows you to remain open to feedback and growth. Remember that good things often take years of experience and effort to cultivate.
Embrace the Ups and Downs: Not every day will be a good day, and challenges are inevitable. Understand that difficult times are temporary and can lead to personal and professional growth Each challenge you face shapes you into the professional you aspire to be
Ultimately, perseverance, a commitment to empathy, and a willingness to learn will set you on a path toward success and recognition in your field
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Sharon Johnson is a Human Reso
eader with a proven track record of driving transformative initiatives. With a PGDM in Human Resource Management from ITM Business School, Navi Mumbai, she specializes in leveraging technology to enhance employee experiences and boost organizational efficiency. Sharon has implemented cutting-edge digital tools, including AI-powered HR solutions, byte-sized upskilling modules, and platforms like ApVerse, positioning her as a key contributor to the future of work. Her expertise in recruitment, digitalization, employee engagement, and policy governance reflects her passion for fostering a culture of agility and inclusivity while aligning HR strategies with business goals.
Outside work, Sharon’s adventurous spirit takes center stage. A road trip enthusiast, she loves exploring scenic routes and uncovering hidden gems, turning every journey into an exciting escapade. At home, she dives into binge-worthy shows, making her downtime a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation!
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
One accomplishment that stands out in my career is the successful implementation of ApVerse, an advanced digital workspace built on Microsoft SharePoint and PowerApps. This initiative was a game-changer, designed to enhance communication, collaboration, and engagement within a hybrid work environment The platform integrated features like self-paced digital training modules, an AI-powered HR Chatbot (AvHa), and a digital library, fostering a culture of innovation and agility across the organization
This project not only streamlined workflows and improved employee experiences but also showcased the potential of combining technology with HR strategy. Leading this initiative shaped my professional journey by solidifying my expertise as a Digital HR Leader and demonstrating the impact of leveraging cutting-edge solutions to drive organizational growth. It also deepened my understanding of how technology can empower HR to become a strategic business partner, fueling my passion for innovation in the future of work
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Being in HR, I have had the privilege of seeing both sides of the coin the aspirations of employees and the goals of the organization. This unique perspective has shaped my leadership philosophy, rooted in teamwork, trust and open communication Building strong teams begins with fostering trust and creating an environment where every individual feels valued and empowered. Regular meetings and catchups ensure alignment and provide a platform for addressing challenges collaboratively
Equally important is recognizing and appreciating contributions, no matter how big or small A simple acknowledgment can ignite motivation and strengthen commitment Lastly, investing in growth both for individuals and the organization drives innovation and sustains long-term success. By balancing empathy with strategic thinking, I believe leaders can create a thriving workplace where people are inspired to perform at their best while contributing to organizational goals.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship has been a cornerstone of my career, as great mentors do more than inspire they ignite transformation My mentors, Shourya K Chakravarty and Priyanka Karekar, have continually pushed me out
of my comfort zone, enabling me to achieve milestones I once thought were beyond my reach.
Shourya’s strategic mindset and innovative approach have inspired me to embrace challenges with confidence, teaching me the power of leveraging technology to drive impactful HR transformations.
Priyanka, on the other hand, has been a beacon of empathy and inclusivity, showing me the importance of building trust-based relationships and fostering a people-first culture.
Their guidance has not only shaped my professional journey but also instilled in me a deep desire to pay it forward
I strive to emulate their influence by mentoring others, pushing them toward their potential, and fostering collaboration to create meaningful, lasting impact
Adapting quickly to shifting trends, being open to learning, and staying curious are non-negotiable in today’s dynamic world.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In an ever-evolving industry, I believe the key to staying innovative and relevant lies in embracing the mindset that change is the only constant Adapting quickly to shifting trends, being open to learning, and staying curious are non-negotiable in today’s dynamic world. It is about viewing change not as a challenge but as an opportunity to grow, innovate, and stay ahead
Fostering a culture of continuous improvement and encouraging teams to experiment and think outside the box ensures that innovation becomes second nature. In essence, adaptability, paired with a forward-thinking approach, is what keeps individuals and organizations resilient and future-ready.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
For aspiring professionals, my advice is simple: stay ahead by staying updated In a fast-evolving world, continuously upgrading your skills is not just important it is essential. Embrace technology as your ally.
It is a powerful tool to not only enhance the quality of your work but also to work smarter
"Learn, unlearn, and relearn" should be your mantra. Be curious, adaptable, and open to exploring innovative ways to solve problems Use tech-driven solutions to streamline processes and save time, so you can focus on delivering impactful results.
Remember, "growth begins at the edge of your comfort zone " Challenge yourself to step up, take initiative, and add value in everything you do.
Recognition comes naturally when you align your efforts with a mindset of continuous improvement and a passion for excellence
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
A passionate and curious people lea Healthcare, BFSI, Analytics, Media, and Retail/ E-commerce industry - with specialisation in Organisation Design, Development and Effectiveness, Talent and Performance management, L&D, Capability Development, Career Frameworks and Job Architecture, Talent Marketplace etc. Shree has been leading people agenda, driving/delivering people strategy and change across multiple geographies, solving complex problems, adding value towards strategic outcomes. | People Strategy | Onboarding, Induction | Learning & Development | Talent Management, Succession | Facilitation, Coaching | Leadership Development | People Analytics, Governance, Compliance & Administration | HR Technologies | She enjoys working in environments that are challenging, value people and encourages Learnagility. Believes and practices ‘Being Human’ the awe of being alive, the thrill of knowing one’s dream and passions, learn from mistakes and grow every day, and just be who we are and accept others for who they are. Happy to network, learn and share ��
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
One of the most impactful accomplishments in my career was leading Career Framework and Organization Design portfolio at Tesco, which addressed the performance, career and learning necessities for the business and employees building a multigenerational workforce globally Spearheading this initiative required navigating complex ecosystem By fostering crossfunctional collaboration and leveraging data-driven decision-making, we achieved 54% increase in internal mobility, 30+ % of efficiency and so much more This experience taught me the power of adaptability, strategic thinking, and people-first leadership The experience reinforced my belief that meaningful change happens when we embrace both bold risks and thoughtful reflection
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
Empathy, clarity of vision, and adaptability have been the most effective principles in my leadership journey Empathy allows me to understand team members’ motivations and challenges, fostering trust and engagement. A clear vision ensures alignment, giving teams a shared purpose and direction. Finally, adaptability enables me to navigate change, respond to
market shifts, and support my team through uncertainty. I believe effective leaders listen more than they speak, prioritize well-being, and create an environment where people feel safe taking risks When teams know they are valued and their voices matter, they consistently deliver their best work. My goal as a leader is to serve, support, and inspire my team to achieve both individual and collective excellence
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been cornerstones of my career growth I credit much of my development to all my mentors through my 2 decade career- who offered candid feedback, challenged my assumptions, and expanded my perspective. I learnt the value of patience and strategic thinking during high-pressure situations Their advice to “focus on the solution, not the problem” still guides me today Collaboration, on the other hand, has shown me that diverse ideas lead to superior outcomes.
Working with cross-functional teams exposed me to fresh viewpoints, which helped me build stronger, more inclusive strategies Together, mentorship and collaboration have taught me that no one achieves success alone it is a collective effort shaped by shared knowledge, trust, and mutual respect
It’s not just about having the right skills, but the mental agility to pivot when faced with unexpected challenges.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
Adaptability , Agility, Reliability and a growth mindset are essential for staying relevant in a fast-evolving industry. Change is inevitable, and those who embrace it as an opportunity rather than a threat thrive. I’ve learned that staying curious whether by exploring emerging technologies, listening to industry thought leaders, or seeking feedback from my team keeps me ahead of the curve. Resilience also plays a critical role. It’s not just about having the right skills, but the mental agility to pivot when faced with unexpected challenges The most innovative professionals I’ve encountered are those who remain open to unlearning old ways and adopting new perspectives. My approach is simple: stay curious, stay human, and stay prepared to reinvent yourself when the industry demands it
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
My advice is to focus on impact, not titles Recognition follows those who solve real problems and create lasting value. First, develop a deep understanding of your industry, and then find ways to address its pain points Be a lifelong learner, remain curious, and don’t shy away from taking calculated risks. Seek out mentorship, as learning from others can accelerate your growth. Equally important is to prioritize relationships success is rarely a solo endeavor Lastly, don’t be afraid to fail Some of my most valuable lessons came from setbacks that forced me to grow. If you remain persistent, reflective, and committed to excellence, recognition will follow Focus on doing the work that matters, and the accolades will come
FORTY UNDER FORTY AWARDEE
Steve Salvius is the Head of Investment Banking & Private Equity at SG Analytics, a leading 17+ year-old global research and analytics firm focused on harnessing data-driven insights with purpose. An entrepreneur at heart, Steve has been pivotal in establishing and scaling SG Analytics’ IBPE practice. He has transformed go-to-market strategies, built delivery teams, developed solutions, and enhanced sales pipelines to address the needs of lower middle-market clients. With over 15 years of experience spanning the US, Europe, and the Middle East, Steve brings deep expertise in M&A and private equity. Prior to SG Analytics, he led a sector group at UBS's India captive. Steve is a recognized thought leader, representing SG Analytics at international conferences and forums, fostering collaboration and partnerships. His leadership and client-centric approach have enabled exponential growth, positioning SG Analytics as a trusted partner for investment banks and private equity firms.
Q: Reflecting on your career, can you share an accomplishment that stands out as particularly impactful, and how did it shape the trajectory of your professional journey?
One of the defining moments of my career was spearheading the development and growth of SG Analytics’ Investment Banking and Private Equity (IBPE) practice This accomplishment stood out because it required a comprehensive approach to addressing market gaps while transforming how we engage with and support lower middle-market clients throughout their deal lifecycle. Leading this initiative involved creating a robust framework for research and execution and building a highly skilled team capable of delivering highimpact solutions in a competitive landscape. This milestone was a turning point for me as it emphasized the power of strategic vision and precise execution It shaped my understanding of clients' nuanced challenges and underscored the importance of tailoring solutions to align with their unique needs. It also reinforced my belief in the value of collaboration and innovation This experience taught me the significance of anticipating industry trends, adapting strategies to meet those shifts, and staying client focused This accomplishment has guided my career trajectory, pushing me to seek opportunities to drive growth and create lasting impact consistently
Q: In your experience, what principles or strategies in leadership have proven most effective in steering teams and organizations toward success?
For me, effective leadership is anchored in three core
principles: clear communication, empowerment, and fostering collaboration. Clear communication ensures team alignment, giving everyone a sense of purpose and direction It involves setting clear expectations, providing constructive feedback, and creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable voicing their ideas. Conversely, empowerment is about trusting your team and encouraging them to take ownership, fostering innovation and accountability
Fostering collaboration both within teams and across functions is another cornerstone of successful leadership In today’s dynamic business landscape, crossfunctional teamwork is essential to adapt to rapid changes and challenges I’ve found that building agile, cross-functional teams equipped with the right digital tools has been a game-changer. These strategies drive performance and create a workplace culture that inspires creativity and accountability Ultimately, leadership is about guiding a team toward shared goals while nurturing a culture of trust, innovation, and adaptability.
I’ve found that building agile, cross-functional teams equipped with the right digital tools has been a game-changer.
Q: How do mentorship and collaboration factor in your career, and have there been mentors or collaborators whose influence has left a lasting imprint on your professional path?
Mentorship and collaboration have been cornerstones of my professional journey. I have had the privilege of learning from mentors who underlined the importance of empathy, strategic thinking, and resilience Their ability to combine empathy with strategic thinking helped me understand the value of building strong relationships and prioritizing long-term success over short-term gains.
Collaboration, especially in investment banking, has been vital. The complexity of projects and the high stakes make trust and teamwork indispensable. My experiences working closely with clients have reinforced the importance of aligning their goals with actionable solutions Collaborating with colleagues has also been a constant source of learning and growth, providing diverse perspectives and collective problem-solving. These relationships built on trust and mutual respect, have left an indelible mark on my professional journey, influencing my leadership style and fostering meaningful professional connections.
Q: In navigating an industry that continually evolves, what, in your view, is the key skill or mindset crucial for staying innovative and pertinent?
In an industry characterized by rapid change, cultivating adaptability and a data-driven mindset are crucial for staying innovative. The ability to continuously learn and evolve with market trends is non-negotiable. Staying ahead requires an acute awareness of emerging trends like ESG integration, digital transformation, and automation Leveraging these trends keeps you relevant and positions you as a leader driving change in the industry.
Fostering a growth mindset - being open to experimentation and fostering a culture of innovation within teams ensures agility in the face of change. Embracing challenges as opportunities for innovation allows you to stay resilient amidst uncertainty Cultivating a growth mindset viewing challenges as opportunities and embracing new ideas has helped me stay relevant. Ultimately, it’s about aligning personal
and organizational strategies with the broader shifts in the industry to deliver sustainable value in a constantly evolving landscape
Embracing challenges as opportunities for innovation allows you to stay resilient amidst uncertainty.
Q: For aspiring professionals seeking recognition like yours, what advice would you offer as the most valuable lessons you've learned in your field?
For aspiring professionals, I would like to emphasize three key lessons: embrace challenges, prioritize relationships, and deliver value consistently Above all, persistence is key While challenges are inevitable, they are opportunities for growth and learning. Each obstacle allows you to refine your skills, expand your knowledge, and build resilience Building trust and maintaining strong networks whether with clients, colleagues, or mentors can open doors to new opportunities and insights. These connections often lead to collaboration and mutual growth, which are essential in any field
Focus on delivering value Understand your client’s needs, anticipate market trends, and tailor your approach to deliver meaningful solutions. Success isn’t just about achieving recognition; it’s about making a lasting impact through your work Always align your efforts with a larger purpose and remember that genuine success lies in creating meaningful impact, not just personal accolades.
Align your efforts with a larger purpose, and recognition will naturally follow when your contributions drive real, measurable change.
