TaskUs Marks International Women’s Day with Diversity Hiring Drive and Women Focused Initiatives Across India

A key highlight of the celebrations was a large-scale International Women’s Day recruitment drive designed to expand opportunities for women professionals and accelerate gender diversity within the organisation. The initiative brought together aspiring professionals and hiring leaders for a day focused on talent discovery, mentorship and meaningful career conversations. The event combined structured interviews with interactive engagement formats including strategy and focus based challenges, a storytelling led “Women Talk” session and speed mentoring interactions with hiring managers. Participants also showcased their creative talents during a vibrant talent segment reinforcing the diverse strengths women bring to the workplace.

The drive saw 351 candidates participate with interviews conducted throughout the day resulting in 63 immediate joiners and offers extended to 43 additional professionals. The initiative also strengthened TaskUs’ future hiring pipeline with 84 high potential candidates identified for upcoming roles. Participation from individuals across diverse communities including candidates from PWD and LGBTQ+ groups further reinforced the organisation’s commitment to inclusive hiring.
Across its India sites including Mohali, Navi Mumbai and Gurugram, TaskUs teams also came together to celebrate International Women’s Day through employee engagement gatherings and interactive sessions that recognised the contributions of women employees while encouraging conversations around wellbeing, leadership and growth.

A key highlight of the Gurugram celebrations was the launch of MystiqHER, a dedicated initiative aimed at strengthening support systems and development opportunities for women employees at the Mystiqa site. The program introduced a range of initiatives including wellness sessions, self-care workshops, mentorship opportunities, financial literacy sessions and women’s health awareness programs. TaskUs also outlined plans to introduce structured career pathing programs to further support women as they grow within the organisation. As part of the celebrations, employees also participated in a wellness session titled “Beyond Superwoman: Redefining Resilience for the Modern Woman”, which explored themes of stress management, wellbeing and identity beyond professional roles. Interactive activities encouraged participants to reflect on personal wellbeing priorities and build practical tools for resilience.

Commenting on the initiatives, Sapna Bhambani, SVP of Operations and Country Leader, TaskUs India, said, “At TaskUs, we believe that building a truly inclusive workplace requires sustained commitment and meaningful action. Our International Women’s Day initiatives reflect our focus on expanding opportunities for women while strengthening access to mentorship, wellbeing support and career development. We remain committed to creating an environment where women are empowered to grow, lead and thrive at every stage of their professional journey.”

Through initiatives such as inclusive hiring programs, leadership engagement and the launch of MystiqHER, TaskUs continues to strengthen its commitment to building a workplace where women have equal access to opportunity, support and long-term career growth. India is the second largest operations base for TaskUs with more than 15,000 teammates across 6 cities. TaskUs India was recently certified as Great Place to Work(R) for 2025 and was named one of the Top 10 Inspiring Workplaces in Asia for 2025 by Inspiring Workplaces Group.

About TaskUs
TaskUs is a leading provider of outsourced digital services and next-generation customer experience to the world’s most innovative companies, helping its clients represent, protect and grow their brands. Leveraging a cloud-based infrastructure, TaskUs serves clients in the fast-growing sectors, including social media, e-commerce, AI, gaming, streaming media, food delivery and ride-sharing, technology, financial services and healthcare. As of June 30, 2025, TaskUs had a worldwide headcount of approximately 61,400 people across 30 locations in 13 countries, including the United States, India and Philippines.

Mr. Rahul Maheshwari (AVP-Partnerships, Phillips Education), Mr. Sukhendu Ghosh, CHR VP-Head Skills Development, Hindalco Industries & Mr. N Chandrababu Naidu (CM, Andhra Pradesh)

“Aditya Birla Skills Centre” was inaugurated on January 30, 2026, by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Shri N. Chandrababu Naidu, in the presence of Shri. Samik Basu, CHRO-Hindalco Industries Ltd. and Smt. Kopal Agrawal, CEO-Downstream Business and Mr. Sukhendu Ghosh, CHR VP & Head Skills Development at Hindalco Industries Ltd. The event marked a milestone highlighting Hindalco’s strong commitment with their CSR/ESG initiatives that supports in the state's journey toward becoming a global hub for high-tech manufacturing, local youth skilling & employability.

During the inauguration, the Hon’ble Chief Minister and the leadership team from Hindalco Industries appreciated the role played by Phillips Education in designing and delivering industry-aligned curriculum, industry-ready training frameworks. Mr. Sukhendu Ghosh, CHR VP & Head Skills Development at Hindalco Industries highlighted “Phillips Education has been really helpful and imparting the relevant and practical knowledge necessary for building manufacturing workforce.”

Mr. Rakshit Kejriwal, Global President at Phillips Education emphasized, “We are grateful to have received such high praise from Hindalco leadership. The CoE infrastructure reflects a shared commitment between industry, government, and skilling partners to build a sustainable and globally competitive workforce. With this initiative, Phillips Education reiterates its role as a strong force in shaping a future-ready practical ecosystem with academic expertise for training and skilling —one that not only supports industry growth but also empowers communities and takes India forward on its journey toward global manufacturing excellence. And as India positions itself as a global manufacturing hub, CSR-led skilling must be demand-driven, outcome-based, and employer-owned.”

The Advanced Technical Training CoE is designed to serve as a hub for high-end technical skilling, focusing on preparing local youth for advanced manufacturing 4.0 industry and technology-driven roles.

About Phillips Education

Phillips Education is a global leader in Industry 4.0 technical training, dedicated to building a future-ready academic and industrial ecosystem. As a key partner in India’s #MakeInIndia and #SkillIndia missions, Phillips Education specializes in establishing Advanced Manufacturing Centres of Excellence (CoE) that bridge the gap between traditional vocational education and modern industrial demand. We are partnered with multiple State governments to deploy CoE infrastructure which deploy impactful trainings that helps local youth employment and generates industry-ready workforce.

In addition to, multiple impactful industrial partnerships such as with JSW Energy, Tata Technologies, and more, Phillips Education had also partnered with IIT Bombay, NIT Delhi to establish the machine laboratories, unleash R&D potential in metal working for the Aerospace and Defence industries. We collaborate with organisations for Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, that are aimed at skilling the youth and generate employment.

Through its comprehensive curriculum—which integrates CNC machining, robotics, additive manufacturing (3D printing), precision manufacturing and AI enabled learning, that leads to fulfil the skilled workforce requirements of Industrial machinists, fabrication & Mechanical Assembly, CNC Turning & Milling operators, semiconductor technicians, windmill Technicians, EV service technicians, solar power installers, Industrial robotics, Drone technicians.

For more information, visit phillipscorp.com/india/phillipseducation.

KaarTech Named Among India's Top 50 Best Workplaces in IT & IT-BPM by Great Place To Work® India

The Best Workplaces in IT & IT-BPM list in India is an annual ranking by Great Place to Work® India, based on rigorous evaluations of employee experience and organizational culture. The ranking draws insights from millions of employee voices and decades of research.

Earning a place among the Top 50 validates how consistently an organization builds trust, prioritizes people, and creates a workplace where employees thrive. For KaarTech, this recognition reflects its commitment to building not just a company, but a culture.

“A truly exceptional workplace is never created in a day it is crafted over time by people who show up with purpose, passion, and excellence, every single day. This recognition is a proud testament to the collective effervescence of every Kaarian in building a culture rooted in trust, accelerated by growth, and strengthened by belonging. And this is not our finish line it is the fuel that drives us to set the bar even higher and rise further among the Top GPTW workplaces in the industry.” says Vignesh Ramesh Kumar, Head of HR.

KaarTech is honored to be recognized among India’s Top 50 Best Workplaces in IT & IT-BPM for 2025. This recognition is not just a milestone; it reflects the company’s deep belief in its people.

About KaarTech
KaarTech is a leading digital transformation consulting organization with 20+ years of experience. The company is a rapidly growing unicorn specializing in IP and digital services, as well as edge and beyond-edge solutions. KaarTech operates across15+ global locations and has successfully executed 3,200+ projects, supported by a workforce of 3,500+ employees. Driven by a strategic focus on customer excellence, KaarTech has earned 23 SAP Quality Awards and 25 business awards worldwide.

With a proven legacy of delivering 75+ SAP S/4HANA digital transformation engagements globally, KaarTech plays a leading role in helping enterprises modernize and scale. Through its flagship intellectual property, KTern.AI, an AI-first approach, KaarTech is committed to reshaping the future of businesses by enabling faster, more intelligent SAP S/4HANA transformations.

For more information, visit www.kaartech.com.

Manipal Academy of BFSI (UNext Learning), India’s premier institution for financial services skilling, is proud to announce its continued collaboration with the Central Bank of India (CBI) to train a specialized batch of 1,000 credit officers. This intensive residency program, conducted at the Manipal Academy of BFSI campus, aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world banking expertise, ensuring new officers are ready to perform from their very first day on the job.

Manipal Academy of BFSI Partners with Central Bank of India to Empower 1,000 Future-Ready Credit Officers

As a premier institution with an 18-year legacy of training over two lakh professionals, Manipal Academy of BFSI has curated a high-impact learning journey for Central Bank of India, that aligns with the current demands of the Indian economy. The program features a mix of academic rigor and practical application through simulation-led classrooms, mock bank branches, and digital learning journeys.

The current cohort represents a diverse cross-section of India, with 1,000 learners hailing from 25 different states. The group includes a strong representation of both men and women, as well as visually challenged learners, reflecting a shared commitment by both institutions toward inclusive growth and national representation.

Kalyan Kumar, MD and CEO of Central Bank of India, added during his visit to the academy, "At Central Bank of India, our collaboration with Manipal Academy of BFSI (MABFSI) represents a transformative step in building the future of banking excellence. Under the guidance of expert faculty, these officers are being equipped with specialised skills in due diligence, credit approval, underwriting processes, and business communication, blending technical proficiency with vital soft skills to excel in customer interactions amid today's competitive landscape. This structured approach is vital for achieving our vision of sustainable growth and supporting India's journey toward becoming a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047".

Speaking about the partnership, Dr Soumyadip Roy, Associate Professor and Director in-charge of Manipal Academy of BFSI, stated: "At Manipal Academy of BFSI, we believe inbuilding a workforce that is ready to perform from the very first time they enter a branch. Two great institutions, Central Bank of India with its 114-year legacy and Manipal Group with its 80-year history in education have come together to empower these learners. Our curriculum is carefully curated to focus on the tech side of banking, from AI-driven risk assessment to digitized onboarding, ensuring these future bankers can balance technology with the high-trust nature of financial services."

The partnership between Manipal Academy of BFSI and Central Bank of India has spanned over 11 years, delivering nine structured programs to nearly 2,000 professionals to date. This

latest initiative focuses on deep proficiency in the credit job family, covering due diligence, credit underwriting, and risk management.

About MABFS

Manipal Academy of BFSI is a UNext Learning entity and part of the Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG). It is India's leading workforce development and professional education company, offering industry-relevant education for BFSI professionals.

Since 2008, Manipal Academy of BFSI has partnered with over 50 leading banks, insurance, and non-banking financial organizations and has trained over 2,00,000 professionals in the industry. As a result, more than one in five bankers in India is now our alumni.

Leadership changes span corporate strategy, risk governance, and market execution to drive hyper business growth

To date, the company has supported 1,000 SMEs across Singapore, Hong Kong, and Australia. It has deployed growth capital to businesses in e-commerce, software-as-a-service, and technology-driven sectors.

With the expanded leadership structure in place, strategic planning and risk governance will be centralised. Local market execution will be strengthened to support disciplined regional scale.

Strengthening Strategy and Governance
Koichi Saito has been appointed Head of Corporate Strategy, bringing over 20 years of experience across corporate planning, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), capital markets, and venture building in Asia-Pacific.

As Founder and General Partner of KK Fund, a leading seed-stage VC firm focused on Southeast Asia, Mr Saito has worked closely with founders across scaling operations, entering new markets, and navigating complex cross-border environments. His earlier career includes roles at ORIX Group, private equity with George Soros’ IHG, investment banking at Mitsubishi UFJ Morgan Stanley Securities, and venture capital at IMJ Investment Partners, where he backed category-defining startups. Across his investment career, he has led investments in more than 30 companies and advised on cross-border expansion across the region.

With the new appointment, Mr Saito will shape the company’s long-term strategy, forge strategic alliances, and drive the company’s next phase of regional dominance.

Elevating Risk as a Core Growth Function
Kitti Chiraseivinupraphand has been promoted to Chief Risk Officer as the company scales transaction volume and expands across multiple Asia-Pacific markets.

Mr Chiraseivinupraphand joined the company in 2021 as Head of Risk and brings over 20 years of experience in corporate banking risk management across Asia. Prior to joining, he held senior roles at Bangkok Bank Co. and holds an MBA from Boston College. Since joining, he has played an instrumental role in developing Choco Up’s AI-powered credit assessment framework, enabling same-day approvals while maintaining rigorous controls.

In his expanded role, Mr Chiraseivinupraphand will continue to advance risk governance and risk technology, ensuring consistency, resilience and control as operations accelerate.

Strengthening Market Execution in Australia
Bart Joanilho will take on the role of Country Head, Australia, as the company continues to deepen its presence and operating footprint in the Australian market.

He has led the Australian business since its market entry in 2023. Mr Joanilho brings over 15 years of experience as a serial entrepreneur across property, food and beverage and e-commerce, combined with deep expertise in tech ecosystem partnerships. Since spearheading Choco Up’s market entry, he has driven enormous growth to the Australian businesses through innovative go-to-market strategies and localisation efforts.

As Country Head, Mr Joanilho will continue to deepen local partnerships and oversee market execution in Australia, ensuring alignment with the company’s broader priorities.

“Koichi, Kitti, and Bart each bring experience that is important to how we operate today,” said Percy Hung, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Choco Up. “As we expand across markets, aligning strategy, risk management and local execution becomes increasingly important. This leadership structure gives us the confidence to support SMEs more effectively as we propel towards becoming the go-to financing partner for APAC’s SMEs and e-commerce merchants.”

Choco Up
Choco Up is a global technology and financial services platform that offers alternative financing and growth solutions for SMEs. With data analytics and machine learning at its core, Choco Up employs vast integrations to automate fund deployment, providing fast-growing companies with zero-equity funding in a quick and seamless manner. Choco Up has offices in Singapore and Hong Kong and serves businesses with smart-growth analytics and global payment solutions to fuel their growth.

Employability.life, Federation University, Australia and JECRC University introduce B.Tech CSE and BCA in AI, DevOps & Cloud Automation

The newly launched programs are designed to address the rapidly evolving demands of the digital economy by integrating cutting-edge technologies, industry derived challenges, real-world application of emerging skills for better preparing learners for the future of work from day zero. The collaboration brings together JECRC’s academic excellence, Federation University & Employability.life’s global education ecosystem, and work-simulated learning expertise to build a truly career-aligned education model.

Through this integrated approach, students will not only gain strong foundations in computer science and applications but will also develop practical exposure through industry-derived challenges, cloud infrastructure environments, AI DevOps driven automation projects, and continuous mentorship from domain experts ensuring they graduate with both technical depth and workplace readiness.

The launch event was attended by the senior management teams of Employability.life and Federation University Australia, the leadership of JECRC University marking a significant step toward strengthening global and industry-aligned higher education in India.

Speaking on the occasion, Paul Oppenheimer, Chief Operating Officer, Federation University Australia, said, “The launch of these AI DevOps and Cloud Automation degree programs reflects our commitment to preparing students for the realities of the global digital workforce. By combining strong academic frameworks with real-world application through Employability.life and JECRC, we are enabling learners to build truly international career pathways.”

Highlighting the vision behind the collaboration, Raja Dasgupta, CEO, Employability.life, stated, “These programs represent a powerful shift from traditional learning to outcome-driven, skill, competency & workplace capability-based education. With AI DevOps and Cloud Automation at the core, students will learn through challenges derived from Industry and work simulations that mirror the digital enterprises of today. Our partnership with JECRC University, will assist the learners to graduate with an employability focused degree and also get an opportunity to pursue a master’s degree in Federation University Australia through a gateway.”

The leadership at JECRC University reaffirmed their commitment to creating future-ready graduates through global collaboration, innovation-driven learning, and deep industry linkages, further strengthening the institution’s focus on next-generation education.

Stating the goals behind the collaboration, Prof. Victor Gambhir, Vice Chancellor, JECRC University, remarked, “At JECRC University, Our focus is on transforming higher education into a powerful engine of employability and innovation. These new age programs in AI DevOps and Cloud Automation bring together global academic frameworks, industry driven learning and, hands on exposure. Our students will graduate not only with strong degrees but with the confidence and competence to excel in the global technology ecosystem.”

About Employability.life

Employability.life is shaping the future of work through innovative work-simulated learning models, global academic pathways, and deep industry partnerships. As a subsidiary of Federation University Australia, it integrates academic excellence with workforce-aligned, real-world education solutions.

Streax Professional Strengthens Skill Development in Beauty & Wellness Through Knowledge Partnership with Krishnashray Gurukul

The visit marked the inauguration of the newly established Assistant Beauty Therapist (ABT) Lab, developed under the technical guidance of Streax Professional. Designed to mirror real-world salon environments, the lab will enhance hands-on learning and ensure industry-ready skills for all trainees. Rochelle toured the facility, appreciated the detailed setup, and provided valuable input to enhance the practical training infrastructure.

During her interaction with trainees and alumni, she discussed the services they provide, the clients they serve, and the challenges they face. She addressed queries on products, techniques, and new trends in hair and skin. Rochelle highlighted that “At Streax Professional, we believe skill is the foundation of confidence, independence, and lifelong opportunity. Our partnership with Krishnashray Gurukul is not just about technical education—it is about unlocking careers, shaping futures, and giving young women the chance to thrive in an industry that is evolving every day. The passion and determination I witnessed among the trainees truly reaffirm our belief in the power of skill development.”

As a special announcement, Rochelle shared that the top performers from every batch will receive an exclusive 3-day specialised training program at Streax Professional Academies in Delhi or Mumbai. She further outlined that a formal MoU will be signed to reinforce the Knowledge Partnership & discussed long-term initiatives to strengthen skill development at Krishnashray Gurukul.

Krishnashray Foundation Representatives expressed their appreciation, saying, “We are honored to have Streax Professional as our Knowledge Partner. Mrs. Rochelle Chhabra’s visit brought immense inspiration to both students and faculty. Her strategic guidance and the initiatives announced will significantly elevate the quality of training and expand career opportunities for our trainees. This partnership strengthens our mission of enabling dignified livelihoods through skill and self-reliance.”

About Krishnashray Gurukul SEDI

Nestled in the once-quiet village of Jatipura in Govardhan Tehsil, Mathura, Krishnashray Gurukul SEDI began its journey as a Silai Sewing School in collaboration with USHA, with a mission to empower women and children through skill-based learning. What started as a small initiative for the local community gradually expanded its impact, today reaching beneficiaries across nearly a 60 km radius.

To broaden opportunities for youth, the Gurukul partnered with the Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICA) to introduce accounting and Tally programs, enabling young individuals to enter the workforce with practical, industry-ready skills.

As the scale and ambition of the institute grew, Krishnashray Gurukul joined hands with the Ambuja Cement Foundation (ACF) in June 2019 to establish a professionally run, structured skill development ecosystem. ACF brings decades of expertise, operating 33 skill training institutes across India and having trained more than 40,000 candidates in various trades—of which an impressive 75–80% are gainfully employed.

Today, Krishnashray Gurukul SEDI stands as a committed centre for livelihood development, creating meaningful pathways for education, employment, and self-reliance in the region.

About HRIPL

Hygienic Research Institute Private Limited (HRIPL) is a prominent Indian leader in beauty and personal care products, specializing in hair care, skin care, and salon services. With over 60 years of legacy since 1957, HRIPL has grown from a single-brand promoter-owned entity to a multi-brand, multi-category organization backed by private equity and is known for brands like Vasmol, Streax, and Streax Professional, along with Florozone in skin care. Committed to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, HRIPL operates with a vision to offer excellent products and services globally while fostering growth and spreading happiness. The company boasts a robust manufacturing legacy across six locations, adhering to international quality standards. HRIPL is honored with accolades such as Great Place to Work, Best Workplace for Innovation, and recognition in the FMCG sector, underscoring its commitment to excellence in workplace culture and innovation.

Careervira AI: Agentic AI Platform for Learning and Talent Development

A Top 10 Global LXP and HCM Platform Built on Google-Scale Principles

Careervira AI has earned its elite ranking by filling a critical market gap: offering mid-market organizations and employees access to world-class learning technology previously available only to Fortune 500 enterprises. "At Google and YouTube, I witnessed firsthand how technology and scale can transform entire industries," says Vijay Singh, Founder and former Head of Product Sales for YouTube across India and Southeast Asia. "Our guiding belief—'You Can Be Everything That You Want To Be'—drives everything we build at Careervira AI. We're bringing that same Google-quality engineering and global scale to HRTech, democratizing access for the mid-market."​

The platform offers over 125K+ courses from 20+ global providers and 1,000+ expert instructors on its platform, guaranteeing organizations worldwide have access to best-in-class training resources.​

January 2026: Vira AI Launch with 15+ Specialized Agents for Learning and Talent Development

Careervira AI will unveil Vira AI in January 2026 a purpose-built, HR-focused locally trained Large Language Model (LLM) with 15+ specialized agents automating the full spectrum of learning and talent workflows. The multi-agent system achieves 70%–80% automation across skill intelligence, career orchestration, learning curation, and compliance tracking, saving L&D managers over 10 hours weekly.​

The Most Affordable Enterprise LXP and HCM Platform

At approximately $2 to $10 per user per month, Careervira AI delivers up to 70% cost reduction compared with legacy systems, making it the most affordable best-in-class LXP available today. "We practice what we call 'frugal engineering'—building radically affordable technology without sacrificing power or intelligence," Singh explains. With zero-code configuration and seamless HRMS integrations, implementation drops from 6–12 months to just four weeks.​

Industries Driving Adoption

IT/ITES, BFSI and funded startups companies across India and Southeast Asia are leveraging Careervira AI's stack-specific learning paths for 150+ tech stacks. BFSI organizations are deploying compliance automation capabilities, while internet enterprises use AI-powered career pathing to reduce attrition and accelerate onboarding. With presence across key global markets Careervira AI is the platform of choice for organizations navigating rapid transformation.​

About Careervira AI

Founded in 2020 by Vijay Singh, former Google executive and Head of Product Sales for YouTube across India and Southeast Asia, backed by USD 2.5Mn in seed funding by global HR and Tech Leaders, the company serves 148 countries for its B2C platform and connecting professionals and enterprises through its AI-powered LXP and LMS marketplace across US, Canada, UK, SEA and India.​

Naukri’s Pro AI Resume Maker

The Naukri Pro - AI Resume Maker is an advanced online self-service platform that allows job seekers to create professional resumes that appeal to recruiters effortlessly. Whether you're a fresher searching for your first opportunity or an experienced professional eyeing the next move, this AI tool keeps your resumes polished, powerful, and perfectly tailored to land in the right hands.

So, what makes it special?

Forget spending hours tweaking margins or guessing what “ATS-friendly” even means. Naukri’s AI Resume Maker simplifies it all with:

• Customizable, professional templates : Choose a design that mirrors your vibe, classy, modern, or minimalist.

• Smart AI-powered content tweaks : Refine your phrasing and highlight your achievements so your skills don’t get lost in jargon.

• Seamless Naukri profile import : Already have a Naukri account? Just pull in your profile and auto-fill your resume in seconds.

• ATS-optimized formats : Ensure your resume clears recruiter screening systems with flying colors.

• Real-time preview & easy download : Edit, preview, and download instantly, no waiting, no stress.

With just a few clicks, your resume is ready to impress, whether you’re applying on Naukri, LinkedIn, or any other job platform.

Because first impressions count – and yours just got an upgrade

Your resume isn’t just a document; it’s your first handshake with opportunity. The AI Resume Maker uses intelligent algorithms to polish your profile, sharpen your tone, and present your skills in a way recruiters can’t ignore.

And it doesn’t stop there. As part of Naukri Pro, users also get access to premium features like profile enhancement, hidden job invitations, AI mock interviews, and skills insights —everything needed not just to apply for a job but to ace the entire process.

Affordable plans, premium results

Because career growth shouldn’t break the bank. Choose from three flexible plans:

• Rs. 999 for 1 month

• Rs. 1,999 for 3 months

• Rs. 2,999 for 6 months

Each plan includes complete access to Naukri Pro and its suite of powerful career tools.

Here’s the bottom line

Job hunting can be overwhelming. Between writing cover letters, preparing for interviews, and second-guessing your resume format, it’s a lot. The Naukri Pro AI Resume Maker takes one major stress off your plate.

It’s like having a smart, experienced friend by your side, one who knows what recruiters want and helps you put your best foot forward.

So stop overthinking fonts and bullet points. Start building a resume that speaks for you.

Try it now: Naukri Pro AI Resume Maker

Because the right job starts with the right resume, and with Naukri Pro’s AI Resume Maker, you’re already halfway there.

About Naukri

For over two decades, Naukri.com, the leading job platform in India, has been benefitting millions of professionals in finding the right opportunities. With tools like Naukri Pro AI Resume Maker, the company is one step closer to its mission to make job searching simpler for everyone through smart technology combined with human understanding, one resume at a time. Job seekers can also download Naukri app to explore opportunities, apply instantly, and manage their job search seamlessly.

Galgotias University partners with Vivo Mobiles through a strategic MoU to strengthen experiential learning, innovation, and industry-ready skills for students

Under this partnership, students will benefit from specialized training modules, workshops, and live projects facilitated by industry experts from Vivo. The initiative will not only enrich the technical proficiency of students but also equip them with real-world insights into innovation, product design, and mobile technology trends.

Commenting on the occasion, Dr. Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University, said, “At Galgotias, we believe in empowering students through experiential and industry-driven learning. This collaboration with Vivo Mobiles reflects our ongoing commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology and real-world exposure into academic learning. Through our G-SCALE model, we aim to nurture professionals who are industry-ready and future-focused.”

The MoU also underscores Galgotias University’s continuous efforts to create meaningful partnerships with global and national industry leaders. By fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, the university seeks to prepare students for the dynamic demands of the technology sector.

The G-SCALE - Galgotias Student-Centered Active Learning Ecosystem initiative reflects Galgotias University’s commitment to experiential and industry-linked education. By promoting active learning and innovation, G-SCALE ensures students gain real-world skills and become future-ready professionals.

About Galgotias University 

Galgotias University Among the World’s Leading Universities in QS and THE Rankings

Galgotias University proudly ascends in the QS World University Rankings 2026 by Quacquarelli Symonds, securing a coveted position in the 1201–1400 global band. Ranked 15th among top private universities and 43rd among all Indian universities—public and private combined—this achievement marks a powerful endorsement of Galgotias’ unwavering commitment to academic excellence, global relevance, and innovation in higher education.

In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, Galgotias University has been ranked 45th among Indian universities (including both government and private institutions) and placed in the globally prestigious 1001–1200 band. This significant achievement reinforces the university’s growing stature in the international academic arena and validates its consistent progress in global higher education benchmarks.

HRKatha Rising Star Leadership Awards

The inaugural HRKatha Rising Star Leadership Awards drew 129 entries from across India’s corporate landscape over a two-month nomination period. After rigorous evaluation, 59 entries were shortlisted and honoured during the event.

The Jury Composition

The jury’s composition reflected the breadth of India’s corporate landscape. Led by Sandip Ghose (MD & CEO, Birla Corps) as Jury Chair, with Ramesh Mitragotri (Group Executive President – Human Resource, Aditya Birla Group) as Jury Co-Chair, the panel included: Ashwini Prashara (CHRO, Hydrocarbons, Reliance Industries), Rajorshi Ganguli (President & Group Head-HR, Alkem Laboratories), Ayush Gupta (Director-HR, GAIL), Praveen Purohit (CHRO, Vedanta Aluminium), Subir Verma (ED & CHRO, Power Business, RP Sanjiv Goenka Group), S Parthasarathy (iMeT, EVP, L&T Technology Services), Rupesh Tripathi (Head-People and Culture, KPMG), Saba Adil (CHRO, Edelweiss), and Pooja Manocha (CHRO, Bata India).

Over two weeks, this distinguished panel evaluated cases with surgical precision. The margins proved razor-thin—often separated by a mere 0.2 to 0.5 points. At times, the difference between finalist and winner was negligible in numerical terms.

Sandip Ghose, MD & CEO, Birla Corps, articulated the jury’s philosophy, “As a jury, we weren’t just looking for good HR practices — we were looking for creativity that redefines value creation. It wasn’t about who had the most polished process or the biggest scale, but about who dared to think differently, who connected people and performance in a way that drove measurable business impact. What stood out for us were those entries that showed HR not as a support function, but as a co-creator of strategy, innovation, and growh.”

Praveen Purohit, CHRO, Vedanta Aluminium, expanded on the evaluation criteria, “While evaluating the case studies, what truly impressed us were the initiatives that went beyond policies and processes to create real business value. We looked for stories where HR wasn’t working in isolation but driving innovation hand-in-hand with business leaders. The best entries demonstrated how people practices can fuel performance, build agility, and create an ecosystem where both talent and organisation grow together.”

Rupesh Tripathi, Head-People and Culture, KPMG, captured the jury’s sentiment, “I thoroughly enjoyed reading the entries and case studies. Some very good work. Thank you for providing these young professionals a platform to showcase their work.”

Rajorshi Ganguli, President & Group Head-HR, Alkem Laboratories, said, “The experience was good. The work done by different applicants were good. It’s good to know so many innovative work being done by different people in different organisations and especially the hard work behind it.”

The Winners

Beyond recognition

The event’s intimate format—deliberately boutique rather than expansive—enabled depth impossible in larger ceremonies. Panel discussions explored ideas thoroughly rather than rushing through talking points. Winners engaged in substantive conversations with jury members about implementation challenges and measurable outcomes.

Lionel Paul David, CHRO, Watertec, reflected on the significance, “I thoroughly enjoyed being part of the event and am truly grateful to HRKatha for this recognition. It’s encouraging to see platforms like these celebrating meaningful HR innovations and the people behind them.”

Sumit Rastogi, Deputy General Manager at HyFun Foods, found particular value in the intellectual exchange: “I truly enjoyed the panel discussions — they were so thought-provoking and insightful. I’m deeply grateful for the recognition and the opportunity to be part of such a wonderful celebration. The entire setup was beautiful, and the evening couldn’t have been better to honour young HR talent alongside their mentors and guides.”

Jaya Suri, CHRO at Kimbal, who spoke at the event, praised the approach, “The content was really insightful and full of learning. I also loved the idea of keeping it a boutique, small event focused on meaningful content rather than size.”

Dwarakanath noted the quality of exchange, “The quality of speakers was outstanding, and the discussions were truly in-depth and to the point. You rarely come across such closed-door events with this level of meaningful exchange — and that’s exactly what HRKatha has built. I thoroughly enjoyed being part of it and look forward to seeing more such events in the future.”

Jaikrishna B, President Group HR at Amara Raja Group, who served as both speaker and awards presenter, captured the event’s potential, “Everything about the event was wonderful — from the discussions to the overall energy. It would be exciting to see it grow even bigger next time. It truly has the potential to become one of the most anticipated events of the year.”

The inaugural HRKatha Rising Star Leadership Awards didn’t just recognise emerging talent—it validated that the future of HR leadership in India is already here, challenging convention and redefining what it means to build organisations where both people and performance thrive.

Springworks, a leading HRTech startup serving over 5,000 customers globally and home to The Shape of Work (TSOW) community of over 250,000 HR professionals, today announced that it has taken a significant stake in Goodfit, an AI-powered hiring platform. As part of the agreement, Springworks will become the official global reseller of Goodfit. Rohit Venugopal, Principal HRtech Advisor at Springworks (ex-Razorpay), will join Goodfit as Co-founder, while Prasanth P, Founder (ex-CTO of Giva), will continue to lead as CEO.

 

Springworks, a leading HRTech startup, today announced that it has taken a significant stake in Goodfit, an Al-powered hiring platform

What Goodfit Brings to the Table
Goodfit helps hiring teams move faster and smarter with its AI-first suite of features, including:

• 24/7 AI Video Interviewer that allows candidates to interview anytime with results captured in structured scorecards.

• Automated Resume Screening and Parsing to cut down hours of manual shortlisting.

• Candidate Scoring and Video Assessments that ensure fair, consistent evaluations.

• AI-native Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to manage hiring pipelines end to end.

• Branded careers pages, automatic job board publishing, and reporting dashboards for streamlined hiring operations.

Goodfit is already used by dozens of startups, SMEs, and enterprises across industries such as retail, healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing, recruitment agencies, and the gig economy.

Proven Impact
Springworks has implemented Goodfit internally to streamline its own hiring.

“Goodfit lifted a huge weight off our hiring team. It runs the first-round interviews for us and hands over clean, no-fluff scorecards with all the interview highlights. We find the right people faster and avoid the resume guesswork and calendar chaos. I cannot imagine going back to the old way,” said Kartik Mandaville, CEO of Springworks.

Using Goodfit, Springworks rolled out 100+ job offers over the past three months with just one TA professional managing the process. The platform conducted 13,000+ first-round AI interviews over this period, the equivalent of more than 2,000 hours of recruiter time saved. Out of these, 1,930 qualified candidates were shortlisted while 11,182 were filtered out as poor performers. These results illustrate how automation combined with structured assessment delivers scale, consistency, and speed without overwhelming talent teams.

Strategic Alignment
“Goodfit’s capabilities take the heavy lifting out of hiring which is exactly what HR leaders need in a fast-moving world,” said Rohit Venugopal, Co-founder at Goodfit. “By combining Springworks’ reach and credibility with Goodfit’s innovation, we can offer hiring teams everywhere a next-generation solution that is fair, fast, and effective.”

Prasanth P, Founder and CEO of Goodfit, added, “We built Goodfit to help HR teams stop chasing schedules and guessing resumes. Our goal is to enable data-driven hiring decisions through AI-led tools. With Springworks as our global partner, we can scale that mission worldwide.”

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

HR leaders looking for a single platform to screen, score, and hire with 24×7 AI interviews, resume parsing, psychometric, coding & typing tests, proctoring and a free-forever ATS can request a complimentary demo at goodfit.so or call +91 8431840202.

About Springworks
Springworks is an HRTech company trusted by over 5,000 organizations worldwide. Its products include SpringVerify, EngageWith, and now Goodfit, designed to streamline hiring, background verification, onboarding, and employee engagement and recognition. Springworks also powers The Shape of Work (TSOW), India’s largest and most-engaged community of over 250,000 HR and People Ops professionals.

About Goodfit
Goodfit, founded by Prasanth P, ex-CTO of Giva, is an AI-powered hiring platform that enables companies to screen resumes, score candidates, run interviews around the clock, and manage their hiring pipelines with an AI-native ATS. Goodfit is used by organizations across industries to reduce bias, speed up hiring, and improve retention.

Consilio’s new office in India, headquartered in Bengaluru, Karnataka

Named “Taara”—meaning “star” in Hindi—the new Innovation Centre reflects Consilio’s ambition to serve as a guiding light for legal and technology professionals, and as a destination for top-tier talent. Taara will act as a multidisciplinary hub at the intersection of law and technology, with a special focus on artificial intelligence (AI). The center provides a collaborative environment where engineers, data scientists, and legal professionals come together to drive innovation and deliver solutions for some of the world’s most complex legal challenges.

Consilio’s expansion in Bangalore builds on years of strategic investment across India, complementing its established operations in Bangalore, Gurgaon, Hyderabad, and Pune. In 2025, the company has grown its India team by more than 250 professionals, now totalling over 1,400 employees—marking a significant expansion in Consilio’s growth trajectory. Of these, 500 talented individuals will be based at Taara, which features collaborative workspaces, training rooms, and amenities crafted to inspire and support teams as they develop innovative legal technology solutions.

Alongside other community investments, Consilio cultivates future talent through a campus program that recruits from top regional business schools to work with Fortune 100 companies and leading law firms, preparing participants with the professional, technology, and client-relationship skills they will need. Taara’s launch is marked by the graduation of its latest cohort, with leaders in India celebrating and welcoming the new graduates.

“Taara reflects our deep commitment to investing in local India and GCC communities,” said Brandyn Payne, Chief Employee Experience Officer at Consilio. “In recent years, we’ve welcomed more than 200 campus graduates across our four locations, and Taara provides a tech-forward, collaborative home where these young professionals can begin their career journeys and help build the future of legal services with global impact.”

With the launch of Taara, Consilio stands apart by offering professionals the unique opportunity to work on projects for numerous Fortune 100 companies and leading law firms—broadening experience and impact. This expansion affirms Consilio’s commitment to India as a vital hub for talent, innovation, and business growth, and invites the region’s best and brightest to join its journey. 

For more information, visit: www.consilio.com/taara. 

About Consilio 

Consilio stands as the global leader in eDiscovery, document review, flexible legal talent, and legal advisory & transformation consulting services. With its Consilio Complete suite of capabilities, the company empowers multinational law firms and corporations using innovative software, cost-effective managed services, and deep legal and regulatory industry expertise. The company's AI portfolio includes Guided AI Review, Native AI Review, Aurora's AI investigation tools, and now TrueLaw's advanced narrative AI capabilities. ISO\IEC 27001:2022 certified, Consilio operates offices, document review, and data centers across Europe, Asia, and North America.

For more information, visit www.consilio.com. 

Mr. Chandan Chattaraj, President - Human Resources (India and Global)

This global certification is a benchmark of excellence for people practices and stands as a testament to UFlex’s commitment to being an employer of choice by creating a workplace where both people and purpose thrive. Achieving this recognition involved a thorough assessment of its HR practices across key areas, including people strategy, talent acquisition, learning, diversity & inclusion, and well-being. The recognition reflects the strength of UFlex’s progressive people-first culture and highlights the progress it has made in making UFlex a preferred workplace.

UFlex Limited is named a Top Employer 2025 in India

Over the years, UFlex has built a strong people-centric ecosystem backed by employee-first policies and an open, agile culture. The organisation has introduced various initiatives aimed at supporting holistic development and employee well-being. The company offers curated learning paths, leadership development modules, and access to on-demand training through its internal learning platform, supporting continuous professional growth.

Sharing his thoughts on the achievement, Mr. Anantshree Chaturvedi, Vice Chairman and CEO, Flex Films International, said, “This recognition is an important milestone in UFlex’s journey. At UFlex, our people are at the centre of everything we strive to be as an organization. Being named a Top Employer India 2025 goes beyond just this recognition. It reflects the inclusive, progressive, and future-ready work culture we have strived to build. It motivates us to continue investing in our people, nurturing talent, and driving positive change in the packaging industry. This has always been our path to success.”

Commenting on the recognition, Mr. Chandan Chattaraj, President - Human Resources (India and Global), said, “At UFlex, HR transformation has been a continuous and all-encompassing journey focused on strengthening our people practices in alignment with evolving business goals. We nurture talent through future-focused learning, fostering agility and collaboration across our global ‘centers of excellence’, and promoting diversity and inclusion by ensuring equal growth opportunities. Over the years, we have received recognition from esteemed institutions, which has served as an important validation of our progress. Being certified by the Top Employers Institute is a proud moment that highlights our efforts in delivering best-in-class employee experience, making UFlex a preferred workplace.”

“Consistency in a not-so-consistent world? Amidst constant change—through technological advances, economic shifts, and evolving social landscapes—it is inspiring to see people and organisations rise to the challenge. This year, the Top Employers Certification Programme highlights the dedication of our Top Employers as they continue to set the standard, consistently delivering world-class HR strategies and practices. These Top Employers strive to foster growth and well-being, all while enriching the world of work. We are proud to celebrate these people-first leaders and teams as the Top Employers for 2025!”, said, Mr. David Plink, Chief Executive Officer, Top Employers Institute.

The Top Employers Institute program certifies organisations that demonstrate excellence in delivering a superior employee experience. The programme has certified and recognised over 2,400 Top Employers in 125 countries/regions across five continents.

For more details, please visit: www.uflexltd.com

The refreshed PERSOL logo marks a new chapter across 13 APAC markets

The rebrand retires the Kelly name after years of successful collaboration, bringing all PERSOLKELLY-branded businesses under one scalable, region-wide identity. It offers clients and jobseekers a more seamless experience — while preserving the trusted local teams and relationships that remain at the heart of our success.
 

With Asia Pacific having contributed an impressive 60% of global economic growth last year[1], PERSOL is well positioned to continue bridging the region's workforce needs with high quality employment opportunities. From automation and demographic shifts to rising demand for skillsets in technology and sustainability, the way we work is changing, and PERSOL is designed to help organisations and professionals respond with clarity and confidence.
 

"Over the years, we've built trusted client relationships and deep local expertise under the PERSOLKELLY name, expanding our business across the APAC region to help businesses and professionals meet emerging workforce challenges," said Francis Koh, Chief Executive Officer, PERSOL APAC.
 

"Becoming PERSOL reflects how far we've come — and where we're going. It unifies our strengths under one brand, allowing us to scale smarter, deliver consistently, and innovate faster," he added.

Rethinking Work: AI, Skills and Shifting Expectations
Employers and job seekers are navigating a time of unprecedented disruption. Work is changing rapidly — with automation, AI, green industries and borderless talent transforming how and where people work. Employers now face mounting pressure to hire flexibly, build long-term capability, and compete for emerging skillsets across markets.

PERSOL's refreshed brand reflects a clear response to this shift. Its services span agile hiring, digital-first recruitment, reskilling support and regional talent mobility — giving clients a future-ready talent strategy designed for speed, scale, and sustainability.

From Legacy to Future-Focused Workforce Transformation
Although the brand name has changed, PERSOL's mission remains rooted in local partnerships. Since introducing the PERSOL brand in 2016 in Japan — followed by PERSOLKELLY across Asia-Pacific, the leading HR Solutions company has accelerated its regional growth and presence.

The brand change enhances PERSOL's ability to connect local insight with regional scale — helping organisations and professionals navigate a workforce landscape defined by transformation, technology, and talent mobility.

Its services are designed to address a broad spectrum of labour market needs — from tackling youth underemployment in Malaysia, supporting agile and digital hiring in Singapore, to enabling tech talent pipelines in Australia.[2] The rebrand strengthens PERSOL's ability to connect these local insights to a broader regional strategy — helping businesses and professionals adapt to the forces reshaping the world of work.

"Becoming PERSOL and unifying our business across Asia-Pacific means we can deliver smarter, more consistent solutions across borders — while staying responsive to the unique needs of each market," said Francis Koh.

More information on PERSOL's expanded services is available at www.persolapac.com. For background on the company's history and presence in Asia Pacific, view the full factsheet here.


Note to Editor: All statistics referenced in this release are sourced from the PERSOL APAC Industry Insight Report Feb 2025, which explores workforce trends, hiring challenges, and talent strategies across Asia Pacific. The full report is available for download at: www.persolkelly.com/industry-insights

(1) PERSOL APAC Industry Insight Report Feb 2025, p. 3.

(2) PERSOL APAC Industry Insight Report Feb 2025, pp.12–15 (MY & SG) and pp.6, 19, 32 (AU).

About PERSOL in APAC

PERSOL is Asia-Pacific's leading Staffing and HR solutions partner, operating across 13 markets with deep local insight and regional scale. With more than 140 offices and decades of experience, we deliver integrated workforce solutions that are tailored, tech-enabled, and designed for the dynamic world of work.
 

We combine human expertise with smart technology to help organisations solve workforce challenges, unlock potential, and stay ahead of change. From recruitment and talent management to workforce strategy and advisory, our collaborative approach puts your goals at the centre.
 

In 2025, we came together under the PERSOL name - reflecting our bold vision for the future of work and our Group's Vision: 'Work and Smile'. Whether you're building teams, growing careers, or transforming how work gets done, we're here.

AdvantageClub.ai Reaches a New Milestone: 15 Million Users Worldwide

This rapid growth has made it the #1 platform in its category, trusted by top organizations to engage not only their employees but also customers and partners. By supporting the full ecosystem, AdvantageClub.ai is helping companies build deeper, more meaningful connections across every touchpoint.

Founded in 2016 by UCLA graduates Sourabh Deorah and Smiti Bhatt Deorah, AdvantageClub.ai has grown quickly by offering a powerful, all-in-one platform. In just a few years, it has scaled from 1 million to 15 million users by helping companies strengthen relationships and improve experiences at every stage.

The platform brings together everything companies need to engage their people, including rewards and recognition, wellness programs, flexible benefits, surveys, employee communities, and loyalty programs. All of these features work together as a unified system, helping companies establish strong emotional bonds with their employees and others within their network. The loyalty program, inspired by consumer rewards systems, plays a key role in building long-term trust and commitment.

At the center of AdvantageClub.ai is ADVA 2.0, an intelligent AI assistant that gives each person a personalized experience. Whether it's a reminder to take a wellness break, a note of appreciation, or a benefit choice, every experience feels timely, thoughtful, and relevant.

Today, more than 1,000 companies in over 100 countries use AdvantageClub.ai—including big names like Concentrix, Teleperformance, HCL, BCG, Tech Mahindra, Tata Steel, and Air India. These companies rely on the platform to foster a better workplace culture, enhance employee retention, and create experiences that employees truly enjoy.

In December 2024, AdvantageClub.ai raised $4 million in a funding round led by Axilor Ventures, bringing its total funding to $11 million. This funding is helping the company grow in the U.S. and Asia and invest further in AI features and personalization tools that make the platform even more engaging.

Sourabh Deorah, Co-founder and CEO of AdvantageClub.ai, said, “Crossing 15 million users is not just a validation of our technology—it’s a reflection of the emotional impact we’re making on people’s work lives. It shows that companies across the world are ready to move beyond check-the-box engagement toward something truly personal and lasting.”

Smiti Bhatt Deorah, Co-founder and COO, added, “Real engagement is about creating value in everyday moments at work. At AdvantageClub.ai, we focus on crafting solutions that employees actually love using—not just because they have to, but because it makes them feel seen, appreciated, and connected. This milestone motivates us to keep innovating with purpose and empathy.”

As the world of work continues to evolve, AdvantageClub.ai remains focused on helping companies cultivate strong, people-first cultures—not just for employees, but across their entire ecosystem.

About AdvantageClub.ai
AdvantageClub.ai is the world’s first agentic AI in Employee Experience, Rewards and Wellness platform offering a range of services, including rewards and recognition, wellness solutions such as OPD plans, Annual Health Check-Ups, wellness challenges, sales incentive automation, flexible benefits, surveys, moments that matter, and communities, all on a single platform. It provides end-to-end solutions to facilitate employee engagement by digitizing the company’s R&R policies, allowing them to drive better employee retention and happiness. AdvantageClub.ai has over 15 million users, with a presence in more than 100 countries, 1,000+ clients, and 10,000+ brand options. Established in 2016, AdvantageClub.ai is the brainchild of UCLA postgraduates, Sourabh Deorah and Smiti Bhatt Deorah, who identified employee engagement as a space to create disruption using AI, data mining, and analytics. Headquartered in San Francisco, AdvantageClub.ai boasts an impressive client portfolio that features prominent companies such as Air India, BCG, Biocon, Concentrix, HCL, Hexaware, L&T, Tech Mahindra, Tata Steel, Teleperformance, and many more.

With a strong reputation for assisting companies in advancing through customized talent strategies, Grafton Recruitment has solidified its position as a leading recruitment agency in Central and Eastern Europe. Grafton employs more than 800 recruitment specialists and operates 27 locations. The company now extends its tradition and skills from more than 40 years of international experience to India, greatly benefiting businesses looking for specialized, scalable, and dependable hiring solutions.

The rebranding aims to unify Gi Group Holding’s recruitment service lines while expanding Grafton’s footprint into the Indian market. It underscores the group’s commitment to delivering consistent hiring solutions across geographies and provides Indian clients with access to global talent networks, advanced sourcing technologies, and specialised industry expertise.

Sonal Arora, Country Manager, GI Group Holding, said, “Our team, relationships, and commitment remain unchanged; what evolves is our capability. As Grafton, we are better positioned to support clients with global networks, digital tools, and deep domain knowledge.”

Maya Nair, Executive Director, Grafton Recruitment, said, “We are combining our strong local expertise with global capabilities to offer clients a more integrated and future-facing approach to hiring. Additionally, it gives our employees access to global frameworks, technology, and learning opportunities, enabling them to create an even bigger impact.”

In India, the brand will continue to serve a broad spectrum of industries, including IT, Manufacturing, Healthcare, Consumer, Retail, E-commerce, Engineering, Power, Oil & Gas, and Shared Services. The rebranding brings access to a wider talent pool, advanced sourcing technologies, to name a few and proven recruitment practices.

With 40+ years of global experience, Grafton specializes in White collar Junior to senior level hiring, serving organisations of all sizes. By adopting the Grafton name, an Indian business, enhances its ability to offer cross-border talent solutions, expanded sector coverage, and digital sourcing capabilities, while continuing to serve clients with the same leadership and team they have relied on under the Elixir banner.

For existing clients and candidates, the rebranding has no operational impact. The team structure and service quality remain intact, with the added benefit of enhanced scale and capabilities.

Axis Max Life Insurance Limited. (“Axis Max Life” / “Company”), formerly known as Max Life Insurance Company Limited”, has once again earned recognition from the Great Place to Work® (GPTW®) Institute, securing 28th rank amongst India’s prestigious ‘Top 100 Best Companies to Work For in 2025’. This marks our 11th year of being certified as a Great Place to Work®. This milestone reaffirms the Company’s continued commitment to building a high-trust, high-performance culture that champions employee wellbeing, innovation, and inclusion.

Axis Max Life ranked amongst Best Workplaces for 11th consecutive year by GPTW® Institute

Further strengthening its credentials as an employer of choice, Axis Max Life has also been featured in the ‘Top 25 Best Workplaces in BFSI 2025’, the ‘Top 50 Best Workplaces for Building a Culture of Innovation by All 2025’, and the ‘Top 50 Best Workplaces in Health & Wellness 2024–25’. These accolades reflect the organization’s holistic and people-centric approach to workplace excellence, prioritizing trust, care, and empowerment across every level.

Shailesh Singh, Senior Director and Chief People Officer, Axis Max Life, remarked, “We are truly honoured to be recognised by GPTW® across multiple impactful categories. These recognitions are a testament to our sustained commitment to fostering a workplace where every employee feels valued, empowered, and inspired to thrive. At Axis Max Life, our people agenda is deeply anchored in trust, innovation, and holistic wellbeing — pillars that continue to shape a culture of purpose, performance, and progress.”

The Great Place to Work® certification process involves a comprehensive evaluation of workplace culture, based on two core parameters: the Trust Index™ Survey (75% weightage), which captures the employee experience, and the Culture Audit™ (25% weightage), which assesses organizational values, leadership effectiveness, and people practices. This rigorous methodology ensures recognition is firmly rooted in authentic employee insights.

About Axis Max Life Insurance Limited (https://www.axismaxlife.com)
Axis Max Life Insurance Limited, formerly known as Max Life Insurance Company Limited, is a Joint Venture between Max Financial Services Limited (“MFSL”) and Axis Bank Limited. Axis Max Life Insurance offers comprehensive protection and long-term savings life insurance solutions through its multi-channel distribution, including agency and third-party distribution partners. It has built its operations over two decades through a need-based sales process, a customer-centric approach to engagement and service delivery and trained human capital. As per annual audited financials for FY2024-25, Axis Max Life has achieved a gross written premium of INR 33,223 Cr.

About Great Place To Work

Great Place To Work is a global leader in workplace culture, helping organizations create a consistently and overwhelmingly positive employee experience. The  certification recognizes organizations where employees trust their leaders, take pride in their work, and enjoy strong camaraderie with colleagues—regardless of role, location, or background. At the core of the evaluation is the Trust Index™ Survey, a globally recognized tool that assesses employee experience, leadership effectiveness, and workplace culture. Companies that achieve this certification gain a benchmarked view of the key drivers of a great workplace. These insights enable organizations to unlock employee potential, boost productivity, and drive stronger business outcomes.

L–R Jaswinder Kaur and Mandeep Kumar Singh, Directors, Yuvraj SCS, with Dr. Ravina Duhan, Strategic HR Partner
 

With over 18 years of diverse experience spanning the healthcare and corporate sectors, Dr. Ravina Duhan brings deep expertise in Training & Development, Performance Management Systems (PMS), Talent Acquisition, and Strategic HR Management. A certified PoSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) Trainer, she actively partners with organizations to build safer, more inclusive workplaces. Dr. Duhan regularly conducts PoSH awareness sessions, formulates company-specific anti-harassment policies, and guides Internal Committees (ICs) on compliance, reporting, and resolution protocols—as mandated by Indian law. Her work not only ensures statutory compliance but also nurtures a culture of respect and accountability within organizations.
 

Through this collaboration, she will architect robust HR frameworks and models designed to scale operations, improve employee engagement, and enable structured growth within Yuvraj Supply Chain Services LLP. These frameworks will include performance appraisal systems, role-based competency mapping, employee lifecycle policies, and leadership development programs aimed at building a high-performance culture.
 

Speaking of the association, Dr. Ravina Duhan, Strategic HR Partner shared, “I’m excited to collaborate with a visionary leader Mr. Mandeep Kumar Singh. Yuvraj Supply Chain Services LLP holds great potential, and I look forward to implementing strategic HR solutions and process that will empower teams and drive sustainable success.”

A respected name in the logistics and supply chain sector, Mandeep Kumar Singh, Founder of Yuvraj Supply Chain Services LLP, added, “We’ve always believed in building a business with heart and structure. Dr. Ravina’s approach to HR is both strategic and human. Her involvement will not only strengthen our internal processes but also support our vision of scaling with a people-first mindset.”
 

This partnership marks a new chapter for Yuvraj Supply Chain Services LLP, aligning its operational goals with future-ready HR practices and a scalable SOP structure.
 

About Dr. Ravina Duhan
Dr. Ravina Duhan is a distinguished HR leader, POSH trainer, and certified business coach with a legacy of transforming organizations through strategic people management. Her dual academic background in healthcare and HR from Symbiosis and IIM Calcutta, respectively, uniquely positions her to bring cross-sectoral insights to the table.
 

About Yuvraj Supply Chain Services LLP
Yuvraj SCS is a trusted logistics partner helping businesses simplify freight, customs, and supply chain challenges with speed, precision, and a consultative approach. With a global network in 120+ countries and expertise in customs clearance, break-bulk, and consolidation, we deliver smart, cost-effective solutions that keep your shipments moving—without delays or hidden surprises. At Yuvraj SCS, your trust moves us, and we deliver—every time.

The groundbreaking initiative challenges the long-held industry belief that leadership recognition should correlate with years of service, instead focussing on impact, innovation, and the potential to reshape India’s HR landscape.
 

“The HR profession has evolved dramatically, and we need recognition platforms that reflect this transformation,” said Prajjal Saha, Founder & Editor of HRKatha. “These awards aren’t about celebrating past achievements – they’re about identifying the leaders who will shape the future of work in India. We’re looking for professionals who think differently, act boldly, and create lasting impact regardless of their years in the industry.”
 

A response to industry transformation

The awards programme emerges at a critical juncture for Indian HR. Digital transformation, artificial intelligence integration, and evolving workforce expectations have fundamentally altered the profession’s landscape. Yet traditional recognition systems have remained anchored in outdated paradigms that privilege tenure over innovation.
 

Consider the profound shifts witnessed across Indian organisations: the rise of people analytics transforming decision-making, AI revolutionising talent acquisition processes, employee experience emerging as a strategic discipline, and diversity and inclusion evolving from compliance function to business imperative. These transformations weren’t driven by decades-old playbooks but by professionals willing to challenge conventional wisdom and experiment with new approaches.
 

The HRKatha Rising Star Leadership Awards recognises this reality, celebrating seven distinct categories that represent both current excellence and future potential in HR:

• HR Tech Innovator: Professionals leveraging technology to solve complex people challenges

• Talent Acquisition Expert: Those redefining organisational attraction and hiring strategies

• Diversity & Inclusion Champion: Leaders creating truly inclusive workplaces

• Employee Experience Architect: Professionals crafting engaging employee journeys

• Organisational Change Leader: Those navigating transformation with excellence

• HR Business Partner of the Year: Masters of translating people strategy into business results

• Emerging HR Leader: Early-career professionals demonstrating exceptional promise
  ​

Industry veterans champion fresh perspective

The programme’s credibility stems from its distinguished jury panel, comprising CEOs and CHROs with over 350 years of combined experience across diverse industries. Their enthusiasm for recognising emerging talent reflects a broader industry acknowledgment that innovation often comes from unexpected places.
 

“Delighted to be part of the HRKatha Rising Star Leadership Awards with such a stellar panel,” said Sandip Ghose, MD & CEO, Birla Corporation Ltd. “HR has changed in a way we could not have imagined even a few years ago. So, greatly looking forward to the ideas the young trailblazers bring to the table. Sure, it is going to be an enriching experience for the jury as well.”
 

Praveen Purohit, Deputy CHRO, Vedanta Group, echoed this sentiment, “Superb opportunity to showcase best practices and leadership that can inspire many more to rise in time to come. For now, ‘own your rise’! I look forward to seeing some of the motivating entries along with my other jury colleagues.”
 

A stellar jury panel
Sandip Ghose (MD & CEO, Birla Corp)

Harit Nagpal (CMD, Tata Play)

Ramesh Mitragotri (Group Executive President - HR, Aditya Birla Group)

Ashwani Prashara (CHRO, Hydrocarbons, Reliance Industries)

Saba Adil (CHRO, Edelweiss Life Insurance)

Praveen Purohit (Dy CHRO, Vedanta Group)

Ayush Gupta (Director – HR, GAIL India)

Subir Verma (Executive Director & CHRO - Power Business, RP Sanjiv Goenka Group)

Vinay Ranjan (Director HR, Coal India)

Rajorshi Ganguli (President & Global CHRO, Alkem Laboratories)

Pooja Minocha (CHRO, Bata India)

Rupesh Tripathi (Head People, Performance & Culture, KPMG)
 

Defining the Rising Star mindset

What distinguishes a rising star from traditional HR professionals? According to the programme’s framework, it’s not about having all the answers but asking better questions. It’s not about following established processes but improving them. It’s not about managing people but inspiring them to achieve their potential whilst driving organisational success.
 

Rising stars share distinct characteristics: comfort with ambiguity, embracing technology as an enabler rather than threat, understanding evolving employee needs and adapting accordingly, and measuring success not just in metrics but in meaningful human outcomes.
 

“Rising stars understand that HR is no longer a support function – it’s a strategic differentiator,” explains Saha. “In an economy increasingly driven by talent, knowledge, and innovation, HR professionals hold the keys to organisational success. Rising stars embrace this responsibility and leverage it to drive meaningful change.”
 

Building a community of change-makers

Beyond individual recognition, the awards programme aims to build a community of forward-thinking professionals who will collectively shape India’s future of work. Winners won’t merely receive recognition – they’ll join an exclusive network of innovators, change-makers, and visionaries.
 

This community approach addresses a critical industry need. When rising stars connect, collaborate, and share insights, the entire profession benefits. The programme creates a platform for cross-pollination of ideas, peer learning, and collective advancement.
 

Industry impact and expectations

As nominations open for the inaugural awards, organisers anticipate discovering transformative stories across Indian organisations. Expected entries include professionals who have transformed recruitment processes using AI, created inclusive cultures in traditionally homogeneous industries, designed employee experiences that rival consumer brands, and led organisational changes that seemed impossible just years ago.
 

The traditional HR career path – starting at entry level and slowly climbing hierarchy over decades – is giving way to a more dynamic model where impact and innovation can accelerate advancement. The HRKatha Rising Star Leadership Awards acknowledges this reality and celebrates those who embody it.
 

A broader industry call

The initiative extends beyond recognition to catalyse broader industry conversations. What skills will tomorrow’s HR leaders need? How can organisations better prepare emerging talent for future challenges? How can the industry create more opportunities for innovation and experimentation?
 

“To every HR professional reading this: if you’ve implemented something innovative, if you’ve challenged the status quo, if you’ve created positive change in your organisation or the lives of employees – consider yourself a potential rising star,” urges Saha. “The criteria for these awards isn’t about having the perfect resume or the longest tenure. It’s about having the courage to lead, regardless of your title or years of experience.”
 

Looking ahead

The inaugural ceremony is scheduled for August 2025, marking what organisers believe will be a new chapter in HR recognition – one that celebrates potential over position, innovation over tradition, and impact over tenure.
 

“Every established leader was once a rising star. Every industry transformation began with someone willing to challenge conventional wisdom. Every great organisation was built by people who saw possibilities where others saw limitations,” reflects Saha. “The HRKatha Rising Star Leadership Awards is our commitment to identifying, celebrating, and nurturing these visionaries.”
 

The programme represents more than recognition – it’s a statement about the industry’s future direction and a commitment to nurturing the talent that will define it.
 

By 2030, half of today's HR practices will be obsolete. The professionals who will define what replaces them aren't sitting in corner offices—they're in cubicles, co-working spaces, and virtual meetings, quietly revolutionising people practices one innovation at a time. The HRKatha Rising Star Leadership Awards is our attempt to find them before everyone else does.
 

For more information visit www.hrkatha.com/risingstarawards.

Mr. Priyavrata Mafatlal, Vice Chairman, Arvind Mafatlal Group

The essence of leadership today lies in its ability to blend timeless values with contemporary relevance. Where once efficiency and structure shaped success, we now find growing emphasis on empathy, adaptability, and a deeper sense of responsibility. Leaders are being called to do more than manage outcomes - they are being invited to inspire belief, nurture talent, and create cultures where people feel safe to contribute with conviction.

This shift is already visible. Across sectors, leadership is broadening - from managing processes to shaping possibilities. It’s about thinking beyond silos, encouraging experimentation, and leading with both heart and foresight. As one HR leader recently shared, “We need individuals who influence across boundaries, act with courage and care deeply.”

The Evolving Language of Leadership

Supporting this evolution requires a thoughtful reimagining of how organisations are designed and led. Many forward-thinking institutions are embracing key shifts:

Purpose that resonates: When strategy serves a greater good, it earns both trust and loyalty.

• Fluid structures: Agile systems allow influence to move swiftly and meaningfully.

• Safe spaces for dialogue: Creativity thrives in environments where every voice matters.

• Transparency with intent: Open access enables confident, empowered teams.

• Success that’s shared: A business flourishes when its people and partners grow with it.

A New Kind of Alignment

What we see emerging is not a departure from the past, but a more refined alignment - of mission with meaning, performance with values and ambition with long-term impact. Talent is nurtured not just for skills, but for curiosity, integrity and the ability to grow with grace. Progress is measured not only in numbers, but in trust built, culture enriched and purpose fulfilled.

At the centre of this evolution stands a new kind of leader - calm, clear and quietly courageous.

Looking Ahead

There is quiet promise in this moment—a time where shaping institutions can truly redefine the future. The opportunity before us is not merely to improve how we manage, but to elevate how we lead - by placing people at the heart of vision, by designing systems that enable, and by honouring the spirit of service that defines enduring success.

The future belongs to those who lead with depth, humility and purpose.

Let us step into it - steadily and with intent.

AdvantageClub.ai presents 100 most admired women awards

This recognition is called the Most Admired Women Awards 2025 (MAW), an annual initiative by AdvantageClub.ai to celebrate exemplary leadership in HR. Now, in its third edition, MAW continues to shine a spotlight on the women driving change, fostering innovation, and redefining workplace excellence.

This year, over 500 nominations were received from across the United States, India, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, the U.K., and beyond—a testament to the growing influence of women in HR leadership worldwide. These nominations underwent a selection process via an all-women jury comprising of Chandni Kamal, Hazel Banas, Shirin Sehgal, and Smiti Bhatt Deorah.

These trailblazing women have not only broken barriers and redefined leadership in HR but have also led with resilience, empathy, and vision, creating workplaces that thrive on engagement, inclusion, and well-being. Their unwavering commitment to empowering employees, driving organizational change, and championing workplace transformation continues to inspire the global HR community.

Smiti Bhatt Deorah, Co-founder & COO, AdvantageClub.ai, said, "At AdvantageClub.ai, we believe in the power of recognition to drive meaningful change. These 100 women HR visionaries have not only transformed workplaces but have also inspired the next generation of professionals. Their contributions go beyond policies and frameworks—they are shaping a more inclusive, innovative, and people-first future of work. By celebrating their achievements through the Most Admired Women Awards 2025, we aim to amplify their impact and encourage more women to step into leadership roles with confidence and purpose."

The nominations were taken across four categories: Leaders, Pioneers, Achievers and Champions. The following is the list of winners for each category in MAW 2025:

Leaders: Bhanu Chawla, Bina Belani, Chidinma Igboanu, Cyl Lin, Diana Marbun, Farzana Kapadia, Harsha Vatnani, Jemima Villa, Johanna Florez, Kamakshi Dharadhar Patkar, Kate, Lisa Korol, Loly Vadassery, Madhavi Rai, Maria Jennalyn Maniago-Miranda, Natasha Chander, Piyanuch Limapornvanitch, Reem Alrehaili, Ruchika Pal, Selwin Rebello, Shefali Tomar, Shipra Jain, Sujatha Das, Swarna Annapureddy, Timsy Kohli.

Pioneers: Aanchal, Alejandra Cruz Azuara, Anuradha Preeth S, Aparna Pai, Ashu Sawhney, Deepa Thomas, Deepali kaul, Divya Seth Sharma, Kavita Gopakumar Karattoparambil, Kirthan Meril Dsouza, Lekkhini, Mary Andrews, Monika Garg, Preeti Kannan, Prerna Dhar Pant, Priyanka Dubey, Puneetha Reddy, Rachele Focardi, Rachna Chhabra, Reema Banerjee, Runu Jain, Shalini Singh, Swati Srivastava, Tanushri Nair, Tanya Smith.

Achievers: Abhilasha Lawangkar, Aditi Prabhu, Agnes, Ainab Zaidi, Aleena Baig, Bhawini Bhardwaj, Deepali Jetley, Deeraj Malhotra, Garima Arora, Geetika Verma, Hala Jaber, Homa Merchant, Kashish Sharma, Mahima Rajesh Mishra, Mariam Sargsian, Meghna Singhee, Navneet Kaur, Neha Sanjay Ahuja, Rolika Malik, Sakshi Verma, Smita Varma, Sneha Sharma, Sumitra Krishnamurthy, Tejaswi Gohar, Upasona Roy.

Champions: Akshaya Ravikumar, Amrita Kapoor Bedi, Andrea Lombardo, Arpita Poojary, Bhavya Shetty, Dr. Ramani Ganesh, Jackelene Aquino, Meenakshi Aggarwal, Merin George, Neha Singh, Nikku Singh, Pallavi Singh, Pradnya Kamble, Priyanka Chhabra, Reena Shrivastava, Rukmini Divakar, Santhoshi Reddy, Shruti Ajit Kutty, Simran Hada Shrivastava, Smriti Sood, Sneha Rajiv Naik, Sohini Chakraborty, Sri Deepti Kocherlakota, Suhani Bhattar, Vidya Sree V Nair.

For details on the winners, please check:- maw.advantageclub.ai/maw_winners

As AdvantageClub.ai continues its mission to enhance employee engagement and workplace culture, this recognition serves as a testament to the dedication, innovation, and leadership of women shaping the HR industry. Their work is influencing how organizations approach talent, well-being, and the future of work on a global scale.

About AdvantageClub.ai
AdvantageClub.ai is a global AI-powered employee engagement, rewards, and wellness platform with offerings like rewards & recognition, wellness solutions including OPD plans, Annual health checkups and wellness challenges, sales incentive automation, flexible benefits, surveys, moments that matter, and communities on a single platform. It provides end-to-end solutions to facilitate employee engagement by digitizing the company’s R&R policies, allowing them to drive better employee retention and happiness. AdvantageClub.ai has over 5.5 million users, with a presence in over 100+ countries, 1000+ clients, and 10,000+ brand options. Established in 2016, AdvantageClub.ai is the brainchild of UCLA postgraduates Sourabh Deorah and Smiti Bhatt Deorah, who identified employee engagement as a space to create disruption using AI, data mining, and analytics. Headquartered in San Francisco, AdvantageClub.ai has an impressive client portfolio featuring Air India, BCG, Biocon, Concentrix, HCL, Hexaware, L&T, Tech Mahindra, Tata Steel, Teleperformance, and many more.

The Indo-French Chamber of Commerce (IFCCI) organised the Fifth Edition of its flagship event, the HR Conclave and Awards 5.0 in New Delhi, bringing together CEOs, CHROs, & Global Thought Leaders from the Indo-French Business Community organized under the aegis of the IFCCI HR Committee which comprises of CHROs and HR Heads from over 100+ French & Indian Companies. Several leading French & Indian business groups like Accor, Airbus, Air Liquide, Amadeus, BNP Paribas, Capgemini, L’Oreal, Michelin, Naval Group, Pluxee, Total Energies, SBS, Sonepar, Trilegal are some of the active members of the IFCCI HR Committee.
 

Indo-French Chamber’s HR Conclave 5.0 recognises French companies’ HR Business Potential & workforce led business growth

Sharing his views on this occasion, H.E. Mr. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India said, "The IFCCI HR Conclave & Awards celebrates the dynamic human and economic ties between France and India. HR leaders play a pivotal role in shaping the future talent ecosystem, and we must recognize the immense opportunities for Indian alumni of French institutions. 2025 should mark the beginning of a new era - one where the French industry in India takes the lead in showcasing how France is contributing to hiring talent in India. These alumni are the finest ambassadors of French academic excellence, and their success strengthens our shared future.”

A key moment at the IFCCI HR Conclave & Awards 2025 was upGrad Enterprise’s exclusive launch of The Workplace Wishlist 2025 - a snapshot report uncovering the skilling priorities and preferences of the Indian workforce. The launch featured a masterclass by Ms. Shirin Rai Gupta (Director - Marketing, upGrad Enterprise) and a thought-provoking fireside chat with Mr. Suraj Chhetri (VP & Head of HR, Airbus India) and Ms. Natasha Singh (Director HR India, SBS). The report revealed compelling insights, including the growing demand for AI skills, the retention impact of employer-led skilling, and the critical yet overlooked role of soft skills - what Suraj aptly termed as “power skills.” The discussion reinforced a clear takeaway: investing in learning is no longer optional, but essential for workforce and business growth.
 

H.E. Mr. Thierry Mathou, Ambassador of France to India
 

Emphasizing the critical role of HR leaders in steering businesses through uncertain times, Mr. Suraj Chettri, Chairperson of the IFCCI HR Committee and VP, Head of HR - Airbus India & South Asia, stated, "The IFCCI HR Conclave was curated to bring together Global Thought Leaders, CEOs, CHROs, and Industry Experts from the Indo-French network to explore how businesses can embrace change, unlock hidden potential, and drive growth through human capital. The future is arriving faster than we anticipate, and only those who adapt, collaborate, and innovate will thrive. True leadership lies in nurturing talent, fostering partnerships, and building a resilient ecosystem for long-term success."
 

The Conclave served as a platform to discuss the core theme of the Conclave, Unlocking Business Potential for an Uncertain Tomorrow. The concept of HR 5.0 signifies a transformative shift where HR has evolved into a strategic partner to leverage advanced technologies, champion diversity, equity, and inclusion, and foster intentional collaboration across every level of the organization. It is about unlocking human and organizational potential in an age where agility, empathy, and purpose are the cornerstones of success.
 

The IFCCI HR Conclave 5.0 explored the paradigm shift by bringing together thought leaders, business visionaries, and HR experts to discuss how organizations can: Redefine leadership to navigate complexity with confidence; Continue aligning people strategies with business objectives to build future-ready organizations; Harness technology while centering on human-centric values; Embrace collaboration and inclusivity to drive meaningful, lasting impact.

Winners: IFCCI HR Conclave and Awards 5.0

HR Best Practices (Large Enterprise segment) – Airbus India 

HR Best Practices (SME) – Systra India

Employee Wellness and Wellbeing Initiatives (Large Enterprise segment) – Capgemini India 

Employee Wellness and Wellbeing Initiatives (SME) – SBS

Innovative Upskilling Initiatives of the Year Award – Saint Gobain India

Innovative Upskilling Initiatives of the Year (Large Enterprise segment) – Amadeus 

DEIB Force Multiplier Award (SME) – Pluxee India

DEIB Force Multiplier Award (Large Enterprise segment) - Schneider Electric India 

Planet-Impact HR Leadership Award – Accor India (AAPC India Hotel Management Private Limited)

Visionary CHRO Award – Ms. Vandana Tilwani, CHRO, Havas India & Chief Diversity Officer APAC, Havas 

Jury Special Award – Khaitan and Co. 

About Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IFCCI)
Established in 1977, the Indo-French Chamber of Commerce and Industry is the most active bilateral chambers in India. The Chamber has six offices in Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Pune. IFCCI represents a dynamic business platform of over 750 member companies and 17 Sector Committees offering an extensive range of business services and giving access to people and information.

For more information, please visit www.ifcci.org.in.

WOW Workplace Awards 2025

Jombay’s AI-powered WOW Engagement Survey makes the process democratic and authentic by collecting, analysing & publishing positive employee reviews. This initiative marks a significant advancement in workplace recognition, leveraging comprehensive employee sentiment analysis to identify and celebrate exemplary workplaces. It assesses five key dimensions: Empowerment, Efficacy, Well-being, Pride, and Connection ensuring an unbiased and scientific approach to measuring workplace excellence.

The winners of WOW Workplace Awards 2025 were selected across multiple sectors, with the rankings declared as follows: IT, ITeS, and GCC – Top 75; Manufacturing – Top 75; BFSI – Top 50; Retail, FMCG, and Allied – Top 25; and Pharmaceutical and Healthcare – Top 25. In addition to these categories, exceptional companies from aviation, hospitality, real estate, internet & e-commerce, energy and allied sectors were also honored for their dedication to fostering exemplary workplaces.

The WOW Workplace Awards framework enables organisations to:

• Build authentic employer brands through employee advocacy

• Create measurable improvements in workplace culture

• Drive higher employee engagement and satisfaction

• Foster environments that promote innovation and growth

• Develop stronger leadership and team dynamics

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Mohit Gundecha, Co-founder & CEO of Jombay, said, "The WOW Workplace Awards represent our commitment to building 'Workplaces of Winners.' By leveraging AI and employee sentiment analysis, we're providing organisations with a transparent and credible way to measure and improve their workplace culture. This initiative marks a new chapter in how we recognise and celebrate workplace excellence in India."

Mr. K Pandiarajan, Executive Director & Chairman of CIEL HR Group, added, "This initiative represents a transformative step in workplace recognition, using AI-powered insights to help companies in India compete on the world stage. By placing employee voices at the center of workplace assessment, we're enabling organizations to build cultures that not only attract global talent but also nurture India's diverse workforce. This is particularly crucial as we see Indian companies expanding their global footprint and multinational corporations increasing their presence in India."

About Jombay

Jombay is a pioneer in workplace engagement and talent management solutions, offering innovative, technology-driven approaches to enhance organisational effectiveness. Our AI-powered solutions impact every aspect of the employee lifecycle, from assessment to development and engagement. With a proven track record of partnering with leading organisations across industries, Jombay continues to drive transformation in how companies build and maintain winning workplace cultures.

About CIEL HR

CIEL HR is India’s only company offering a complete suite of tech-driven HR solutions, covering the entire employee lifecycle. With 67 offices across 33 locations, CIEL has served 4,019 companies as of June 30, 2024. Over the last three financial years and Q1 FY24-25, CIEL assessed 220,378 managers, payrolled 150,824 employees in June 2024, partnered with 30 colleges through ProSculpt to engage 7,000 students, and trained 90,000 students across 400 colleges in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka using LMS content.

Our Services

• Exec Search, Selection, RPO, Value Staffing, NAPS & NATS: CIEL HR, Aargee Staffing

• Professional IT & Engineering Staffing: CIEL Technologies

• HR Advisory: Ma Foi Strategic Consultants, People Metrics

• HR Managed Services (payroll/compliance): Ma Foi Strategic Consultants

• Skilling: CIEL Skills & Careers

Our HR Tech Platforms

• Talent Assessment & Development: Jombay, Thomas Assessments

• HRMS: HfactoR

• Learning Solutions: Courseplay

• Statutory Compliance: eZYCOMP

• Fresher Upskilling: ProSculpt

Arvind Kapil, MD & CEO Poonawalla Fincorp

With the global AI in Audit market projected to reach USD 11.7 billion by 2033 at a CAGR of 27.9%, as mentioned in the market.us ‘Global AI in Audit’ report , many attribute this growth to GenAI’s ability to pinpoint high-risk areas and detect anomalies, enabling a sharper focus on critical issues that might otherwise go unnoticed.

By integrating ServiceNow’s AI-driven workflows, Poonawalla Fincorp will not only strengthen its risk management framework and streamline internal audits but also optimize governance mechanisms. This transformation will enhance the accuracy and reliability of audit outcomes, building trust with clients and regulatory bodies. Generative AI goes beyond analyzing existing data and aims to create new content for the auditors that resembles the patterns and characteristics of the data it was exposed to. These models learn patterns and features from large datasets, enabling them to generate new content which enriches the overall governance mechanism.

The adoption of Generative AI-based automation shall enable:

• Automated Audit Report generation & risk assessments with greater accuracy and speed.

• Smarter Anomaly Detection & outliers

• Data-Driven Insights for Decision-Making: AI-powered analytics will provide predictive insights, enabling auditors to forecast potential risks and take proactive governance measures.

Speaking on the collaboration Arvind Kapil MD & CEO, Poonawalla Fincorp, said, “At Poonawalla Fincorp, we continuously invest in digital transformation to enhance operational efficiency and governance. By leveraging ServiceNow’s Generative AI solutions, we will significantly improve the accuracy, speed, and depth of our audit processes. This will not only help in proactive risk identification but also ensure seamless compliance with evolving regulations.”

Ganesh Lakshminarayanan - GVP, Sales and Managing Director, India and SAARC - ServiceNow added, “We are excited to work with Poonawalla Fincorp as they continue to set new benchmarks in governance and risk management by embracing Generative AI-powered solutions. Their governance-first and risk-first approach reflects a deep commitment to operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and trust. The ServiceNow platform will help enhance the accuracy and efficiency of audit processes and transform financial operations with intelligent automation, enabling Poonawalla Fincorp to navigate the evolving regulatory landscape with confidence and agility. We look forward to working together to drive innovation and deliver meaningful, long-term value."

This investment in ServiceNow technologies marks a significant milestone in leveraging Generative AI for governance, compliance, and audit functions within the financial sector. Poonawalla Fincorp’s adoption of AI- driven audit automation is part of its broader vision to build a technology-first, transparent, and customer- centric financial ecosystem. This vision is supported by previous initiatives, such as the successful integration of AI in HR operations in collaboration with IIT Bombay, which significantly enhanced efficiency and reduced operational costs. The Company plans to continue investing in digital transformation and innovation to stay ahead of industry trends and meet evolving customer needs.

 About Poonawalla Fincorp Limited

Poonawalla Fincorp Limited (“the Company”) is a Cyrus Poonawalla group promoted non-deposit taking systemically important non-banking finance company (ND-SI-NBFC), registered with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). The Company started operations nearly three decades back and is listed on the BSE Limited (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE).

The Company’s identity “P” stands for Passion, Principles, Purpose, People and Possibilities. The Company has widespread coverage across 18 states and 2 Union Territories. The Company has AUM of ₹30,984 crore as on December 2024, and employs around 2560+ people. The Company’s financial services offerings include pre-owned car finance, personal loans, consumer loans, loan to professionals, business loans, loan against property, supply chain finance and machinery loans.

Mr Vikas Chadha - MD GI outsourcing wins 'Glory of India' Award 24-25

Under Mr. Chadha’s visionary leadership, GI Outsourcing has experienced transformative growth, achieving an impressive 200% increase in organizational performance over the last three years. The company has expanded its service portfolio to address evolving client needs and significantly broadened its geographical presence, establishing a strong foothold not only in India but also in South Africa. These strategic advancements have created numerous opportunities and jobs for talented accountants, empowering them to deliver best-in-class services on a global scale.

Mr. Chadha’s commitment to innovation and excellence has been instrumental in advancing the fields of automation and training, ensuring GI Outsourcing’s talent pool remains competitive and future-ready. By fostering a culture of continuous learning, GI Outsourcing has equipped its team to meet the dynamic demands of the global Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO) and Global Capability Center (GCC) industries.

Beyond business excellence, GI Outsourcing has upheld its responsibility to society under Mr. Chadha’s stewardship. Through impactful Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, the company has extended its support to marginalized communities by aiding street children, blind schools, orphanages, and old age homes. These efforts reflect the organization’s deep commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.

Mr. Chadha is not just a leader but a thought pioneer, advocating for the growth and recognition of the KPO and GCC sectors. As an active contributor to industry forums such as Assocham and as a member of the Regional Council at Nasscom, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s future.

Expressing gratitude for this honor, Mr. Chadha remarked, “This award is a testament to the collective effort of the entire GI Outsourcing team, whose dedication and passion drive our success. I am deeply humbled by this recognition and remain committed to advancing our mission of delivering excellence, creating opportunities, and contributing to society.”

As GI Outsourcing continues its journey of growth and innovation, the recognition of Mr. Vikas Chadha’s leadership reinforces the company’s position as a trailblazer in the global outsourcing industry.

GI Outsourcing has entered strategic partnerships with renowned accounting institutes such as the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India. It already holds gold partnerships with ACCA, UK, and the Chartered Institute of Management accountants and CPAs. GI Outsourcing is renowned for its best employee practices, ensuring a positive work environment, the highest levels of customer satisfaction, and a strong commitment to training and skill development for its employees.

GI Outsourcing has been recognized as the "Dream Company to Work For" by Times of India publications for three consecutive years and Mr. Vikas Chadha personally received the prestigious “Udyog Bharti Award.” Vikas Chadha expressed his confidence that these strategic endeavors will solidify GI Outsourcing's position as a preferred employer and continue to drive the company's success in the UK Accounting Knowledge Process Outsourcing industry.

About GI Outsourcing

Based in the UK, GI is an outstanding outsourcing solution for accountants and business owners. Drawing from a wide range of industry experts and accounting specialists to fill in the gaps and help businesses transform unprofitable clients into profitable ones. With over 25 years of experience, they are one of the most trusted leading financial services & and accountancy firms to deliver the highest quality of work, on time, every time. They provide all aspects of financial services including Management Accounting, Bookkeeping, taxation, cloud computing, virtual CFO, and controllerships. GI has a presence in India, South Africa, and the UK with offices in Mumbai, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Johannesburg, and London and a pool of nearly 400 plus finance and accounting professionals working diligently to provide impeccable service to valued customers across the UK, Ireland, USA, UAE, and Canada and planning to further expand into Australia working diligently to provide impeccable service to valuable customers. GI Outsourcing today works with all the major cloud accounting software suppliers, including Xero, Sage, QuickBooks, CCH, CaseWare, and Iris as well as many of the large ERP systems, such as Dynamics, SAP, and Oracle.

For more information, please visit us at: (www.gioutsourcing.com)

Launch of India Decoding Jobs 2025 by Taggd, in collaboration with CII, Masters’ Union, and PeopleStrong Academy

Talking about the launch of the report, Devashish Sharma, CEO and founding member at Taggd said, “Despite external challenges, India’s industries are thriving. The overall hiring intent for FY2025- 26 stands at an impressive 9.75%, driven by a mix of replacement hiring and capacity-building for new roles, contributing over 24% to workforce expansion.” 

India’s transformative journey, marked by robust economic stability and strategic resilience, is setting a new benchmark for global economic leadership. As global economies confront challenges of deglobalization and uncertainties, India is paving the way forward with a growth trajectory poised to make it the third-largest economy by 2028.

Some of the highlights of the report include :

• Growth of GICs: India’s Global In-House Centers (GICs) are expanding rapidly, with 1,600 centers employing 1.66 million professionals. By 2025, the sector is expected to grow by 36%, adding 800 new centers, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.

• Regional Shifts: Emerging cities like Jaipur, Indore, and Coimbatore are becoming talent hubs, attracting fresh graduates and mid-level professionals. This shift is driven by cost savings and untapped talent pools, supported by industries like BFSI, manufacturing, and IT.

• Hiring Trends: Companies prioritize mid-level experience for faster impact and domain expertise. AI integration in hiring is significant, with 50% of firms using AI for skill assessments and 36% for resume screening, enhancing efficiency and diversity.

• Sustainability: India is creating green roles aligned with its net-zero carbon goals, balancing rapid growth with environmental commitments.

• Upskilling and STEM: STEM education and industry-specific training programs are equipping the workforce with skills in AI, robotics, and cybersecurity. Upskilling initiatives prepare middle management to drive global operations effectively.

Introducing the India Decoding Jobs Matrix
This year, Taggd has also introduced the India Decoding Jobs Matrix, offering a nuanced view of India’s evolving job landscape. The matrix captures the intersection of aspirational value and growth potential across seven critical industries: Automobile, Pharmaceuticals, BFSI, Heavy Engineering & Manufacturing, IT/Tech, FMCG, and Core sectors.

This comprehensive analysis provides key insights for both employers and job seekers, empowering informed decision-making and strategic workforce planning.

As India stands at the brink of unparalleled economic and social progress, the hiring landscape reflects its aspirations for a transformative century. With a strategic blueprint and robust fundamentals, the nation is set to onboard talent that will drive innovation and sustainability, ensuring its position as a beacon of economic stability and growth.

About Taggd
Taggd, India's Digital Recruitment firm, is recharging talent acquisition for Indian and Multinational Enterprises with its industry-leading solutions. With a record of matching 55 K jobs with the right candidates across 14+ sectors annually, Taggd combines data and human knowledge to provide businesses with ready-to-hire talent. It has partnered with prominent brands like Honeywell, Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, HPE, Hyundai, Wipro and many more to deliver its Talent Mandate successfully.

Taggd's expertise in recruitment strategies, talent network access, and data intelligence has solidified its position as a leader in the industry. It is the only RPO player from India to feature as a Star Performer in Everest Group's RPO PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2024 - Asia Pacific.

In line with its commitment to nurture talent and foster a culture of meritocracy, Paisabazaar, India’s leading consumer credit marketplace, has launched the Propelling Advisors Towards Career Excellence (PACE) program. Built on the robust Assessment Centre/Development Centre (AC/DC) HR model, the initiative is designed to accelerate the professional growth of Sales Advisors and provide a structured pathway to leadership roles.

The AC/DC model combines rigorous evaluation with targeted development for the career progression of employees. Assessment Centres involve systematic evaluations through structured simulations and exercises to measure employees’ skills, competencies, and potential. Development Centres build on these insights, delivering customised training programs that empower employees to enhance their capabilities and prepare for higher responsibilities.

PACE Program is tailored specifically for Paisabazaar’s Sales Advisors, with a focus on roles ranging from Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to Team Leaders (TLs). It aims to remove bias in the system and is purely based on meritocracy. This will also help retain and increase the vintage of employees, which remains critical for the business in terms of higher productivity.

Commenting on the initiative, Dhiraj Kalra, CHRO & Head - Customer Service and Training at Paisabazaar, said, “This is more than a professional development strategy for us, it is a testament to our belief in the potential of our workforce. This initiative empowers our Sales Advisors by providing them with a clear and structured career progression path. By equipping our employees with the skills and support they need to thrive, we aim to build a culture of excellence that benefits individuals and the organization as a whole.”

PACE employs a transparent, metrics-based framework to address growth barriers, reduce attrition, and build a robust talent pipeline. By offering equal opportunities for professional advancement, the program seeks to empower employees from varied socio-economic backgrounds. Over 3000 employees are expected to benefit from the PACE initiative at Paisabazaar.

Under this program, employees will undergo a comprehensive six-month training regimen structured in quarterly batches. The eligibility criteria for selection into the Assessment Centre is based on vintage and consistent performance. The Development Centre component then provides targeted training based on the assessment outcomes, focusing on areas such as interpersonal skills, conflict resolution, stress management, leadership, technical proficiency, and decision-making abilities.

This initiative underscores Paisabazaar’s dedication to fostering employee growth through structured and innovative frameworks. By leveraging the AC/DC model, the organisation aims to empower its workforce, cultivate talent, and drive excellence across all levels.

About Paisabazaar

• Paisabazaar is India’s largest marketplace for consumer credit and free credit score platform. It is part of the PB Fintech Group (listed on Indian stock exchanges since 2021)

• Over the last decade, Paisabazaar has earned the trust and goodwill of over 45 million consumers from 823 cities and towns across India.

• Every month, the platform receives over 20 lakh enquiries from more than 1000 cities.

• Paisabazaar over the years has built deep partnerships within the lending ecosystem, partnering with 60+ Banks, NBFCs, NBFC fintechs, to offer wide choice

• Paisabazaar has been running India’s largest credit awareness initiative, by offering consumers their credit score from the credit bureaus for free

• Paisabazaar’s co-created strategy helps meet consumer need gaps, through a robust array of exclusive, first-in-market and best-in-class digital products, built with partner Banks and NBFCs

• Paisabazaar is also an ISO (27001: 2013) certified organization with industry-best controls, to safeguard the best interest of consumers. We are also a PCI DSS certified organization

India to New York: Launch your brand on Times Square’s premium billboard displays with Tusk Groups - Elevate prestige,  boost sales and inspire global recognition

 Why Times Square?
Known as the “Crossroads of the World,” Times Square is a global symbol of culture, commerce, and innovation. With over 50 million tourists annually and generating 1.5 million daily billboard impressions, advertising in Times Square offers: 

• Unmatched Visibility: Your brand seen by millions every day.

• Prestige & Recognition: Establishing credibility alongside global leaders.

• Employee Inspiration: Boosting team morale and fostering pride.

• Sales Growth: Enhancing customer trust and driving business expansion.

• Premium Perception: Positioning companies as industry pioneers.

Tusk Groups specializes in securing premium billboard spaces, including the coveted Middle Board Display, ensuring maximum visibility and impact for its clients. 

 Empowering Businesses Across Borders
Tusk Groups works with businesses in India, UAE, USA, and Singapore, with a strong presence in Indian cities such as Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. By bridging local expertise with global platforms, Tusk Groups empowers companies to achieve international success.

 End-to-End Branding Solutions
Tusk Groups delivers a seamless experience for businesses by managing the entire process, from securing advertising slots at Times Square to producing high-quality visuals and promotional videos. These campaigns are then shared across digital platforms, allowing companies to amplify their visibility further.

 A Revolutionary Impact
Launching at Times Square is more than an advertisement-it’s a milestone that boosts brand equity, inspires employees, motivates sales teams, and enhances trust among clients. This premium branding initiative allows businesses to stand out globally and establish themselves as credible, innovative market leaders.

R. Sasikumar, the official spokesperson for Tusk Groups, shared his thoughts:
*"Tusk Groups is more than a service provider; we are a bridge to global recognition. For companies, launching in Times Square is not just a marketing strategy-it’s a legacy that resonates across borders. We are proud to be the first and only Indian company facilitating such transformative opportunities."*

 Why Choose Tusk Groups?
With expertise in advertising and a deep understanding of global branding, Tusk Groups ensures every campaign delivers exceptional results. The company’s strengths include:

• Innovative Campaigns: Tailored solutions for maximum impact.

• Global Reach: Serving clients across India, UAE, USA, and Singapore.

• Comprehensive Services: From concept to execution.

• Premium Partnerships: Aligning with industry leaders like Google and Samsung.

 A Vision for the Future
Founder and CEO Rajesh S has built Tusk Groups on a foundation of innovation and excellence. His vision is to elevate businesses from local markets to global platforms, creating opportunities for companies to achieve unparalleled success.

 India to New York: Making Dreams a Reality
This initiative is a bold testament to the ambition and innovation of Indian businesses. By collaborating with Tusk Groups, companies are realizing their dreams of global recognition, showcasing their brands at Times Square, and inspiring their teams to reach new heights.

For more information, please visit: tuskgroups.in

The much-anticipated SHRM India Annual Conference (IAC) 2024 successfully concluded day one at the Taj Palace, New Delhi. The event brought together top HR professionals, thought leaders, and innovators to delve into actionable approaches to foster a thriving work environment rooted in mutual respect, transparent communication, and positive collaboration. The conference started with a welcome address by Ms Achal Khanna, CEO SHRM India, APAC and MENA followed by a keynote address by Shri Atul Kumar Tiwari, Secretary,  Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India. On day one of the conference, SHRM and NSDC entered into a strategic alliance with the aim of bridging the skill gap for the future workforce.

This year's theme, ‘NOW’, highlights the urgency of leveraging action to make impactful and relevant changes in the workplace. The sessions explored pressing topics like governance, human rights, and the path to global civility, integrating AI with HI, importance of recognition in building career, strategies for employee wellness, navigating opportunities and challenges in the sector.

Ms Achal Khanna, CEO of SHRM India, APAC and MENA

Talking about the conference, Ms Achal Khanna, CEO of SHRM India, APAC and MENA reflected on the success of the day, stating, “The workplace of today demands bold, immediate action, and our conference serves as a platform where leaders can share insights, exchange ideas, and inspire change. The sessions today reflected the dynamism and innovation required to thrive in this fast-evolving environment. We are excited to see how these conversations will shape the future of work. It is also our honour to applaud and recognise the contributions by the leaders in the HR industry through our awards. We are also grateful to NSDC for their support and encouragement. We are sure that the alliance will help us boost the future workforce with the required skillsets and tools to build better workplaces.”

Many renowned speakers led the conversations, offering actionable insights to equip HR professionals for the dynamic world of work. The day was packed with dynamic sessions, keynotes, and panel discussions, offering strategic insights to equip HR professionals for the dynamic world of work. The robust lineup of speakers from various sectors included Shri Ved Mani Tiwari, Chief Executive Officer, NSDC & Managing Director, NSDC International; D Shivakumar, Chairman MTPL, an Advent PE Company & Conference Chair - SHRMIAC24; Bharat Lal, Secretary General, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), India; Ashok Ramchandran, Director - Human Resources, Aditya Birla Group; Apurva Chamaria, Head of Startups & Venture Capital, India, Google; Gaurav Khatri, Co-founder, Noise amongst others.

Adding to this, Ms Betty Thompson Chair, Chief People Officer, Booz Allen Hamilton and Board Chair SHRM said, “What we see today is an inspiring display of HR leadership committed to driving meaningful change. The discussions at #SHRMIAC24 reflect how pivotal HR’s role is in navigating new challenges and ensuring workplaces are adaptive, resilient, and inclusive. The enthusiasm and engagement from our attendees has been truly inspiring.”

The conference showcased opportunities to learn from HR visionaries. The stage has been set for day two of the conference where SHRM IAC 2024 will continue with topics including harnessing AI, talent in tech-dominated work environment, corporate leadership strategies, sustainable success and others.

About SHRM India

SHRM is a member-driven catalyst for creating better workplaces where people and businesses thrive together. As the trusted authority on all things work, SHRM is the foremost expert, researcher, advocate, and thought leader on issues and innovations impacting today’s evolving workplaces. With nearly 340,000 members in 180 countries, SHRM touches the lives of more than 362 million workers and their families globally.

MeritTrac and Quint Partner to Democratize Behavioural Assessments
 

This partnership helps MeritTrac and Quint democratize behavioural assessments by making them faster, more accurate, effective, and convenient. It will help organizations transform their talent development across levels - leadership hiring, coaching, sales capability, by enabling their mid-level managers to receive actionable feedback and gain access to a digital coach that will monitor and support employees in achieving their potential. In addition to this, the partnership will also allow organizations in India to leverage highly reliable and proven behavioural assessments for their entire workforce, simplifying test execution, analysis, and creating personalized improvement plans for individuals and the team.

Deeper Signals assessments combine the best of behavioural science and cutting-edge technology, ensuring both accuracy and convenience for test takers. By leveraging the latest advancements in AI, including generative AI, these assessments offer personalized coaching, guiding participants toward improved productivity and growth. This innovative approach fosters continuous support and customized feedback, driving ongoing development for employees.
 

Designed to engage the entire organization, Deeper Signals provides every employee with tailored coaching insights. The assessments are faster, more efficient, and highly accessible, delivering real-time feedback that boosts both individual and organizational performance. Continuous feedback, a key to unlocking potential, enables talent development teams to identify employee strengths, address blind spots, and empower employees with tools to enhance their soft skills.
 

Commenting on the partnership, Manjunath K P, COO of MeritTrac Services said, “MeritTrac has a longstanding commitment to helping organizations optimize their talent strategies. Our partnership with Quint integrates sophisticated behavioural assessments into our comprehensive service portfolio, empowering organizations to not only hire suitable candidates but also nurture their growth and productivity."
 

Simone Gargenti, Global CEO of Quint, emphasized the transformative impact of Deeper Signals' tools, "These assessments are designed to prioritize employee engagement and simplify the interpretation of personality insights. By making these tools affordable and scalable, we empower organizations to leverage comprehensive data for informed decisions ranging from training to succession planning."
 

MeritTrac, India’s most experienced testing and assessment company, with Quint provides it the access to Deeper Signals’ assessments that are crafted by experts with over three decades of experience in creating some of the most preferred talent development tools in the global market. Together, they bring unparalleled expertise and innovation to democratize behavioural assessments, driving performance across organizations.

About MeritTrac

Founded in 2000, MeritTrac is India’s leading provider of Testing and Assessment services, serving corporate organizations and educational institutions. Based in Bangalore, the company specializes in facilitating talent acquisition through comprehensive assessments for freshers and experienced professionals. MeritTrac also supports educational institutions by managing examinations with technology-driven solutions. The company has made significant investments in test research and development, offering domain and skill-based assessments that cover the entire test administration process. MeritTrac’s advanced analytics empower recruiters and trainers to analyse test results and generate customized reports. Additionally, they automate the examination process, from processing test applications to digitally evaluating results. Since its inception, MeritTrac has worked with over 500 organizations globally, helping them assess candidates for job readiness.
 

About Quint

HQ in Milan, Italy Is a rapidly growing consultancy operating in Europe, India and APAC. We provide individuals and organisations with reliable data to drive development, support decisions and accelerate change.

The countdown to the 13th edition of the SHRM India Annual Conference has officially begun. Scheduled for October 17th and 18th at the Taj Palace in New Delhi, the conference promises to be one of the largest HR events in India, with a focus on fostering trust, collaboration, and actionable change in the workplace. The event continues to gain momentum with the renowned speakers who have been added to the already impressive list of leading voices from the world of work.
 

The conference, on the theme 'NOW,' will empower HR leaders with business strategies for success while emphasizing civility and building a positive organizational culture. Attendees will get to take a deep dive into topics such as sustainability-driven employee wellness and rewards systems as well as a strategic foresight for the future of work with technology solutions including Gen AI tools.
 

Commenting on the event, Achal Khanna, CEO of SHRM India, APAC & MENA, said, "SHRMIAC24, with its theme 'NOW,' will provide HR leaders with the tools and insights necessary to implement real and relevant changes. This year's conference aims to deliver strategies that create workplaces that are not only productive but also inclusive and supportive. We are thrilled with the growing speaker lineup and the diverse range of topics that will be explored at this transformative event. We are also very excited to announce winners of the SHRM HR Excellence Awards at the India Annual Conference. The landmark event will set new benchmarks for the HR leaders and we are sure knowledge sharing will bring new opportunities for the sector.”
 

The conference is expected to be one of the largest gatherings in the HR fraternity, featuring over 4000 attendees participating in more than 70 knowledge sessions spread across different content tracks like Leadership, Culture & Experience, WorkTech, Policy & Strategy. In addition to previously announced global thought leaders, the updated speaker lineup now includes: Betty Thompson, Chair, SHRM Board of Directors & Senior Executive Advisor, Booz Allen Hamilton; Nikhil Sharma, Managing Director, Perfetti Van Melle India; Raj Nayak, Founder and Managing Director, House of Cheer Networks; Ipsita Dasgupta, Senior Vice President & Managing Director, HP India, Bangladesh & Sri Lanka; Pavitra Singh, CHRO, Pepsico; Shri. K S Shetty, Director – Human Resources, HPCL; Ganapathi Subramanian, Chief Human Resources Officer, Sundaram Home Finance, Rachna Kumar, Chief Human Resources Officer, Hero MotoCorp, Savitha Shivsankar, Chief Human Resources Officer, Asian Paints, Nanjappa BS, Senior Vice President, Human Resources, Infosys amongst others.
 

The event will also announce the winners of the much-awaited SHRM HR Excellence Awards. With the introduction of three separate tracks: Enterprises, Startups/MSMEs, and PSEs, the awards celebrate the trailblazers in HR who are setting new standards and making a lasting impact on their organizations and beyond.
 

Stay tuned for more updates as the conference draws closer! Please visit www.shrmconference.org/iac.

About SHRM India

SHRM is a member-driven catalyst for creating better workplaces where people and businesses thrive together. As the trusted authority on all things work, SHRM is the foremost expert, researcher, advocate, and thought leader on issues and innovations impacting today’s evolving workplaces. With nearly 340,000 members in 180 countries, SHRM touches the lives of more than 362 million workers and their families globally.

AdvantageClub.ai Tops G2's Fall 2024 Report

G2, a trusted software review platform, gathers insights from real users to provide objective evaluations of software products. AdvantageClub.ai is proud to announce that we have won this award for the third consecutive time from Spring 2023 until now, across all three categories. Our outstanding performance has underscored our commitment to enhancing workplace culture and driving employee satisfaction through innovative technology.

"We’re excited to be recognized by G2 this Fall! Our top rankings across all three categories validate our team's efforts to disrupt the recognition industry. Our focus on innovative AI solutions and enhancing redemption experiences has driven this success, but we know we’re just scratching the surface. There’s so much more to build as we strive to create delightful experiences for both employees and organizations alike," - Sourabh Deorah, Co-founder & CEO, AdvantageClub.ai.

AdvantageClub.ai leverages advanced AI technology to provide tailored rewards and recognition solutions, fostering a positive work environment that promotes employee motivation and retention. The platform offers a diverse range of incentives and recognition options, allowing organizations to customize their approach to employee engagement.

AdvantageClub.ai recently reported a 100% surge in revenue over the past two years, highlighting the company’s robust business model and the increasing demand for innovative employee engagement solutions. The accolades from G2 come as AdvantageClub.ai continues to expand its global footprint and enhance its offerings, with a user-friendly interface and data-driven insights that help businesses implement effective engagement strategies that resonate with their workforce.

As organizations increasingly recognize the importance of employee engagement in achieving business success, AdvantageClub.ai remains committed to supporting companies on their journey toward a more motivated and satisfied workforce. With its proven track record and growing demand, AdvantageClub.ai is poised to lead the way in transforming workplace culture.

About AdvantageClub.ai
AdvantageClub.ai is a global AI-powered employee engagement and rewards platform with offerings like rewards & recognition, flexible benefits, sales incentive automation, wellness, surveys, moments that matter, and communities on a single platform. It provides end-to-end solutions to facilitate employee engagement by digitizing the company’s R&R policies, allowing them to drive better employee retention and happiness. AdvantageClub.ai has over 5 million users, a presence in over 100+ countries, 1000+ clients, and 10,000+ brand options. Established in 2016, AdvantageClub.ai is a brainchild of UCLA postgraduates Sourabh Deorah and Smiti Bhatt Deorah, who identified employee engagement as a space to create disruption using AI, data mining, and analytics. Headquartered in San Francisco, AdvantageClub.ai has an impressive client portfolio featuring BCG, Biocon, Concentrix, EY, HCL, Hexaware, Tech Mahindra, Teleperformance, Tata Steel and many more.

Taggd recognized as a Star Performer in Everest RPO Matrix 2024
 

As a Star Performer, Taggd has demonstrated outstanding performance improvements, and its positioning as a Major Contender highlights the company's strategic growth and impactful contributions to reshaping the talent landscape. Taggd's technology-driven approach and deep industry expertise have helped businesses attract, engage, and manage talent more effectively, positioning it as a trusted partner for Fortune 500 companies and emerging businesses.
 

On this achievement, Devashish Sharma, Founding Member and CEO of Taggd, expressed his views, "This recognition by Everest Group is a testament to our unwavering focus on meeting the evolving talent acquisition needs of our clients. We are here to make each hiring manager successful and every single initiative – whether it is our investment in technology, Data, AI or our Customer focus – is to ensure that. We are incredibly proud of this achievement and are excited to continue our journey."
 

"Taggd has established a strong foothold in the Indian RPO market, with deep experience in serving buyers from industries such as manufacturing, hi-tech and telecom, and pharmaceuticals and life sciences. Its prudent investments in creating its own technology stack, data layer, and candidate communities have helped it garner market success," says Arkadev "Arko" Basak, Partner, Everest Group. "These factors have contributed to its positioning as a Major Contender and Star Performer in Everest Group's Recruitment Process Outsourcing (RPO) Services PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2024 - Asia Pacific."
 

This accolade follows several other recent achievements by Taggd, reinforcing its leadership in recruitment. As businesses across the globe grapple with an increasingly competitive job market, Taggd’s role as a strategic partner continues to be recognized by industry leaders and influencers alike.
 

About Taggd

Taggd, India's Digital Recruitment firm, is recharging talent acquisition for Indian and Multinational Enterprises with its industry-leading solutions. With a record of matching 55 K jobs with the right candidates across 14+ sectors annually, Taggd combines data and human knowledge to provide businesses with ready-to-hire talent. It has partnered with prominent brands like Honeywell, Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, HPE, Hyundai, Wipro and many more to deliver its Talent Mandate successfully.
 

Taggd's expertise in recruitment strategies, talent network access, and data intelligence has solidified its position as a leader in the industry. It is the only RPO player from India to feature as a Star Performer in Everest Group's RPO PEAK Matrix® Assessment 2024 – Asia Pacific.

Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice President of Vels Group of Institutions, delivers an address at "Industry - Academia Connect 2024"
 

The HR Conclave, an annual event dedicated to exploring emerging trends and best practices in human resources, serves as a bridge between the academic and corporate worlds. This year’s theme, “Navigating the Future of Work: Strategies for Innovation and Inclusion,” focused on key topics such as technological advancements, employee well-being, and creating inclusive workplace cultures.

Dr. Preethaa Ganesh, Vice President of Vels Group of Institutions, inaugurated the event with an address highlighting VISTAS’s achievements, including its 31 programs offered in collaboration with industrial partners and the signing of MOUs with 225 companies. She emphasized the ongoing collaboration with IBM since 2015, which offers programs in Business Analytics and Cloud and Mobile Application Development. She also noted that VISTAS was among the first universities to introduce Industry 4.0-aligned programs, focusing on cutting-edge areas such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Blockchain, Automation and Robotics, Cloud Technology, Cybersecurity, and more.

The event was graced by esteemed guests, including Dr. S. Sriman Narayan, Vice Chancellor of VISTAS; Dr. M. Bhaskaran, Pro Vice Chancellor of VISTAS. The conclave attracted representatives from over 100 companies, including Zoho, TCS, Sutherland, TVS, Hexaware, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), Star Health Insurance, Oracle, National Stock Exchange Academy, Cambridge University Press and Assessment, The Hindu, T.N. Apex Skill Development Centers for Logistics and Health Care, InGage Technologies, and many others.

Keynote speaker Mr. Charles Godwin, HR Leader at Zoho, delivered an inspiring talk on Zoho’s unconventional hiring practices and shared valuable insights on building a more inclusive workplace. His words sparked meaningful discussions among attendees and provided practical takeaways for HR professionals to implement in their organizations.

The conclave featured discussions led by experts from various sectors, covering topics such as leadership development, adaptability, talent management, and the future of remote work. The interactive format of these sessions allowed students to engage directly with the experts, fostering a deeper understanding of the current HR landscape.

About Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies (VISTAS)

Declared a Deemed-to-be University by the MHRD, Government of India, in 2008, VISTAS enjoys the unique distinction of being a multidisciplinary university in Tamil Nadu with three campuses in Chennai, spread over 100 acres. VISTAS offers programs in various disciplines such as Medicine, Nursing, Allied Health Sciences, Engineering & Technology, Agriculture, Education, Management Studies, Maritime Studies, Law, Arts, and Science, from UG to Ph.D. levels.

For more details visit, velsmedicalcollege.com.

Left to Right - Ashwin Yardi, CEO - India, Capgemini and Sindhu Gangadharan, MD, SAP Labs India and Head, Customer Innovation Services, SAP

India, home to the world's largest youth population, has an opportunity to enhance digital skills among its young citizens. Through this collaboration, Capgemini in India and SAP unite their corporate social responsibility (CSR) visions to provide youth from underprivileged communities with training in courses aligned with market demands. Additionally, this partnership aims to influence policy advocacy to revolutionize the skilling ecosystem.

Emphasizing gender inclusivity, the initiative prioritizes bridging the gap in tech-related fields by ensuring over 50% of participants are young women, thus fostering inclusive socio-economic growth.

Commenting on the announcement, Ashwin Yardi, CEO of Capgemini in India said, "We are delighted to collaborate with SAP and make a significant contribution towards the advancement of India's digital economy through the upskilling of its youth. This collaboration reflects Capgemini’s commitment to empowering vulnerable youth communities and promoting equal opportunities, fostering inclusion and socio-economic development in India. Through the Capgemini-SAP Digital Academy program, we are equipping individuals with essential skills and creating pathways for sustainable careers and livelihoods, while also nurturing the skilled talent India needs for future growth."

Sindhu Gangadharan, MD, SAP Labs India and Head, Customer Innovation Services, SAP said, "At SAP, we have an unwavering commitment to providing equitable access to education and employment opportunities on digital and green skills for youth in today's rapidly changing world. By joining forces with Capgemini on this initiative, we are delivering on our commitment to harnessing technology for positive societal impact. Our partnership will empower India's youth with future-ready and well-defined skillsets, ensuring their long-term success in their careers. This collaboration represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to foster a culture of continuous learning, which will undoubtedly contribute to India's growth trajectory."

Over the next three years, Capgemini and SAP will jointly invest, and pool resources, expertise, and networks to support this crucial initiative aimed at bridging the digital skills gap for more than 8000 individuals who are part of India's marginalized youth.

About Capgemini
Capgemini is a global business and technology transformation partner, helping organizations to accelerate their dual transition to a digital and sustainable world, while creating tangible impact for enterprises and society. It is a responsible and diverse group of 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong over 55-year heritage, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to unlock the value of technology to address the entire breadth of their business needs. It delivers end-to-end services and solutions leveraging strengths from strategy and design to engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, cloud, and data, combined with its deep industry expertise and partner ecosystem. The Group reported 2023 global revenues of €22.5 billion. 

Capgemini in India comprises nearly 175,000 team members working across 13 locations: Bangalore, Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Coimbatore, Gandhinagar, Gurugram, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, Noida, Pune, Salem and Tiruchirappalli. 

Get The Future You Want | Learn more about Capgemini in India at www.capgemini.com/in-en.

About SAP
As a global leader in enterprise applications and business Al, SAP (NYSE:SAP) stands at the nexus of business and technology. For over 50 years, organizations have trusted SAP to bring out their best by uniting business-critical operations spanning finance, procurement, HR, supply chain, and customer experience.

For more information, visit www.sap.co.

Ms. Rebecca Henderso

Recognized as one of the staffing industry’s most prominent thought leaders, Rebecca is a strategic growth catalyst with over 25 years of executive experience piloting companies in scaling globally and transforming for the future. Her last assignment was as the CEO of Randstad Global, Randstad Sourceright and Executive Board Member of Randstad, a 28 B USD company. 

“We are delighted to welcome Rebecca to our advisory board,” said Devashish Sharma, Founding Member and CEO of Taggd. "Her Global expertise in the Recruitment and Tech Industry would add immense value as we move towards our global digitisation journey.”

Pankaj Bansal, Founder of PeopleStrong, Taggd and Caret Capital, added, “Rebecca’s presence on Taggd’s advisory board will accelerate its growth trajectory.”

Speaking on occasion, Rebecca shared, “India is a crucial market for the Global Talent Industry. There will increasingly be the need for digital solutions in this space that will leverage Data, AI, and other new-age technologies to deliver to the expectations of new-age hiring managers and candidates. I am impressed by Taggd’s journey in India and am looking forward to working with the team on their journey ahead.” 

About Taggd

Taggd, India's Digital Recruitment firm, is recharging talent acquisition for Indian and Multinational Enterprises with its industry-leading solutions. With a record of matching 55 K jobs with the right candidates across 14+ sectors annually, Taggd combines data and human knowledge to provide businesses with ready-to-hire talent. It has partnered with prominent brands like Honeywell, Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, HPE, Birla Paints, ThyssenKrupp and many more to successfully deliver its Talent Mandate.

Taggd's expertise in recruitment strategies, talent network access, and data intelligence has solidified its position as a leader in the industry. It is the only RPO player from India to feature as a Star Performer in Everest’s RPO PEAK 2024.
 

For more information, please contact Jafar Rehman, Jafar.rehman@taggd.in, www.taggd.in.

Students at the 6th Satluj Career Fest 2024

The event was held in both virtual and offline mode. The participants got an opportunity to discover opportunities with over 300+ top universities from around the globe, including the USA, Canada, Europe, UK, Australia, New Zealand, and India. The fest was for students of grades 9th to 12th, which included panel discussions by thought leaders from top industries and the education space, besides counselling sessions. Over 10,000 students took part in hybrid mode from different schools across India, including the tricity.

Reekrit Serai, Managing Director, Satluj Group of Schools while welcoming the students and the speakers said career fest was a good opportunity for young minds and was aimed to shape the future of students from different parts of the country. He also stressed on the fact that the majority of jobs will now require skills. He said that career choice is a journey of exploration, learning and self-discovery. "Over 10,000 students and 500 schools took part last year virtually, and this year we are sure to surpass this number, making it one of India’s largest career fests for school students," he added.

The inaugural session took off with a talk by Special Guest Dr. Joseph Emmanuel, CEO and Secretary of CISCE and former Director (Academics), CBSE, who said it was important to guide the young minds about their careers. He added the better you are equipped with technology, the better you can meet the challenges. The best time to guide children is at the age of 15, and since teachers know their students well, they should guide them for choosing their careers. He emphasized the importance of having entrepreneurial skills and expressed gratitude to Satluj Public School for organizing the career fest.

Special Guest Dr. Biswajit Saha, Director (Skills & Training), Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), mentioned that times have changed, making career decisions increasingly challenging for both parents and their children. He emphasized the crucial role of a career counsellor in identifying a child's strengths. Saha also highlighted the importance of thoroughly verifying whether universities meet all necessary criteria when making a choice. Additionally, he stressed the significance of allowing children the freedom to select their preferred career paths.

Special Guest Dr. Parmod Kumar, State Programme Officer with the Department of School Education, Government of Haryana, emphasized the importance of considering future opportunities in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality, and 3D Printing when making career decisions. "It's crucial to anticipate developments over the next decade before choosing a career path," he noted. Dr. Kumar identified the armed forces, ISRO, and agriculture-related fields as three top career options in India and recommended that every parent have their child undergo an aptitude test by the 9th grade.

In the first panel discussion, Raaja Kanwar, Chairman of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Haryana and Chairman and Managing Director of Apollo International Group, spoke on the occasion, emphasizing the importance of entrepreneurial skills even within traditional job roles. He also highlighted the need to remain curious about emerging technologies and to embrace the courage to forge one's own path. "While technology is reshaping the world, the human connection will always remain crucial," he added.

Dr. Rupesh Kumar Singh, Associate Vice President at Adani Group, emphasized that resilience is the ability to bounce back from challenges. "We must embrace uncertainty, as it can be a catalyst for growth," he said. He highlighted the importance of staying curious, taking calculated risks, learning from failures, and building a strong support network.

Man Mohan Singh Kohli, former Chairman of CII Chandigarh and CEO of Kalyan Singh Darshan (Aroma Group), also addressed the students, emphasizing the importance of entrepreneurship. He suggested replacing the motto "Think Big" with "Think Real," given the current scenario. "Ask yourself what lies beyond the ordinary, and remember that you now have the advantage of readily available information," he added.

Satish Kumar Arora, President of TiE Chandigarh, remarked, "We are witnessing significant changes, and it's essential that our education system evolves to keep pace with the future. Even as someone immersed in the technology field, I learn a great deal from my son. Entrepreneurial skills are crucial, as they nurture future leaders."

In a special session, Krishna Mohan, IAS (retd.) and former Additional Chief Chief Secretary of Haryana & Financial Commissioner, highlighted the unique aspects of civil services. "In civil services, you have the opportunity for leadership through significant postings at a young age. The role offers job diversity, creativity, and innovation. You face daily challenges and engage in the public process, enabling you to impact the lives of disadvantaged individuals. It is not merely a job but a service to the citizens of the country."

Krit Serai, Co-chairman of Satluj Group of Schools, said, a lot of hard work went into the planning of Career Fest, which is one of the biggest career shows. He said, 20 plus panellists deliberated on various aspects which helped the youth to choose proper careers. “Career planning is very important in our lives and for a proper career choice planning must start at plus two stages or even Class X. We have a variety of jobs for the youth available now," he added.

 ‘A Peek into the Future of Workplace' by Pluxee and D&B equips HR leaders with data-driven insights

This study provides key insights into evolving workplace trends, employee preferences and employers perspective on Employee Benefits. 

Overview of the study
The report empowers HR leaders to create future-proof employee-centric culture with a well-defined Employee Experience/ Engagement (EE) strategy. 

It provides a comprehensive look into the evolving nature of work environments and employee expectations, equipping HR leaders with data-driven insights to build a loyal, high-performing workforce. The focus is on flexible work arrangements, employee benefits, and educational assistance.
Notably, 52% of senior leaders consider cultural inclusivity valuable in building more empowering and inclusive workplaces. The study also reveals that 71% of employees prioritize flexible work settings, and 61% find educational benefits attractive and motivating.

This one-of-its kind study delves into the perspectives of both employees and employers across diverse industries, including IT/ITES, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, e-commerce and more. Employing a multi-faceted approach encompassing surveys, data analysis, and report compilation, the study provides an overview of current practices as reported by 10 senior HR leaders from diverse industries. This comprehensive study identifies emerging trends, and best practices in employee benefits space in India.

About the launch 

The launch webinar provided an overview of the study and an engaging panel discussion with industry leaders. The panel featured Deepti Pathak, Compensation Director, FIS; Kirandeep Virdi, Head of People & Culture, Asper.ai; Meera Mohandas, Human Resources Director, Wipro; Shalini Adhaar, Chief Human Resources Officer, Shalimar Paints; and Shwetha Ram, Head of Human Resources, Commercial, Parle Agro.

Key takeaways from the webinar included actionable insights into employee preferences for workplace aspects such as educational assistance, flexible work arrangements, and inclusivity, as well as strategies to enhance employee engagement and retention.

Anish Sarkar, CEO of Pluxee India, says, “A peek into the future workplace provides valuable insights on Employee Experience & Engagement best practices. In India's competitive landscape, these findings enable employers to build meaningful connections and communities, making work a place to belong!” 

Uncover the conversation on workplace of tomorrow through Pluxee's pioneering whitepaper and engaging discussion in the webinar. Build efficient, future-ready teams, making work not just a place to be, but a place to belong.

Download the whitepaper (here)
Watch the webinar recording on YouTube (here)

About Pluxee India

Pluxee is a global player in employee benefits and engagement that operates in 31 countries with 27+ years legacy in India. Pluxee helps companies attract, engage, and retain talent thanks to a broad range of solutions across traditional and new age benefits including Meal & Food, Telecommunication & Data, Wellbeing, Learning, Reward & Recognition and more.

Powered by leading technology, Pluxee acts as a trusted partner within a highly interconnected B2B2C ecosystem made up of more than 11,000+ clients, 3.5 million consumers and 1,50,000+ merchants across 1,800+ towns in India.

Conducting its business as a trusted partner with an acquired know-how of more than 45 years, Pluxee is committed to creating a positive impact on all its stakeholders, from driving business to local communities, to supporting wellbeing at work for employees while protecting the planet.

Interestingly, nearly half the job postings were for roles in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities such as Jabalpur, Rajkot, Indore, Lucknow, Guwahati, Raipur, Varanasi, and Visakhapatnam, indicating a growing demand beyond metro areas. Non-metro cities contributed to 45% of the job applications coming from these regions, showcasing a rising talent pool in smaller cities. Key roles in demand included Financial Advisor, Field Sales Executive, Retail Store Manager, Financial Consultant, Life Insurance Advisor & Customer Support Executive amongst others.

Notably, 35% of the job applications were from women applying for roles such as Financial Consultant, Telesales Executive, HR Executive, Retail Relationship Manager and Customer Care Executive. This highlights increased female participation in securing positions at large corporations. This trend aligns with the Periodic Labour Force Survey, which showed that the participation rate of women in the workforce grew from 23.3% in 2017 to 37% in 2023.

Additionally, around 50% of young job seekers with 0-6 months of experience have shown keen interest in roles posted by Nifty companies.

All these achievements are a result of apna’s consistent effort & commitment to finding quality talent from large metros to smaller towns across 850+ cities in India. apna’s cutting-edge AI matchmaking algorithm has empowered over 5 Crore candidates and 7 lakh employers with opportunities across 200+ job categories. Features like hyperlocal search, bulk WhatsApp message integration, and a candidate walk-in feature have connected, and continue to connect, companies with millions of relevant candidates efficiently, saving significant time, costs, and resources. All of this has attracted a growing base of enterprise paying customers.

Speaking on this development, Nirmit Parikh, CEO of apna.co, said, “Apna.co is not just connecting job seekers with employers; we are building the foundation for India’s next billion. By empowering top Nifty 100 companies and driving economic progress across Metros, Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, we are paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. Our enterprise business has seen substantial growth, with the number of paid customers increasing by 40% year-on-year. This reflects our successful shift towards monetization while continuing to expand our reach and impact.”

About apna.co

Founded in 2019, apna.co is India’s largest early talent hiring platform dedicated to helping India’s rising workforce unlock unique professional networking and skilling opportunities. Apna is on a mission to enable livelihoods for billions in India. With more than 5 Crore candidates in 850+ cities and counting and more than 7 Lakh employers that trust the platform, India has a new destination to discover relevant opportunities, enabling jobs in 200+ categories across industries.

SHRM India announces the 13^th edition of SHRM India Annual Conference 2024, set to take place on October 17^th and 18^th at the renowned Taj Palace in New Delhi. Poised to be a transformative platform, focusing on fostering trust and collaboration in the workplace, this year’s theme NOW highlights the importance of timely action for impactful change.

 

Society of Human Resource Management, India
 

The conference aims to bring together HR leaders and professionals to explore actionable strategies for cultivating a thriving work environment. Furthermore, serving as an excellent opportunity to network and knowledge sharing, the event will discuss a wide range of topics including sustainability-driven employee wellness initiatives, cultivating civility in workplace practices, transforming recruitment, training, and rewards systems as well as a strategic foresight for the future of work with technology solutions including Gen AI tools.
 

Commenting on India Annual Conference and Expo 2024, Achal Khanna, CEO of SHRM India, APAC and MENA emphasized the significance of the event and said, “As organizations continue to adapt to the ever-changing business landscape, the strategic role of HR is more crucial than ever. SHRMIAC24, with its theme 'NOW', will provide HR leaders with the tools and insights necessary to implement real and relevant changes. This year's conference aims to deliver strategies that create workplaces that are not only productive but also inclusive and supportive. Our goal is to inspire and equip HR professionals to act now, driving transformation and building better workplaces and, in turn, a better world.”
 

The conference is expected to be one of the largest gatherings in the HR fraternity, featuring over 4000 attendees participating in more than 70 knowledge sessions. Past speakers include global luminaries such as Amitabh Kant, G20 Sherpa, Government of India; Rajeev Bajaj, Managing Director, Bajaj Auto Ltd; Sharad Sharma, Co-founder iSPIRT Foundation; Ramesh Ramadurai, MD, 3M India; Preeti Bajaj, CEO and MD, Luminous Power Technologies; Harsha Bhogle, Cricket Commentator & Journalist, Author, Industry Speaker & IIM Udaipur Board of Governors; Harit Nagpal, MD & CEO Tata Play; Samik Basu, Chief Human Resources Officer Hindalco, Aditya Birla Group; Dr. C. Jayakumar, Executive Vice President & Head - Corporate Human Resources (CHRO), Larsen & Toubro Limited; Pullela Gopichand, Chief National Coach, Indian Badminton Team, among several others. And this year, the event is all set to feature an impressive lineup of speakers, including M Damodaran, Chairperson, Excellence Enablers Private Limited, Former Chairman, SEBI, UTI, and IDBI; D Shivakumar, Conference Chair, Operating Partner, Advent International Private Equity; Betty Thompson Chair, Chief People Officer, Booz Allen Hamilton and Board Chair SHRM; Partha Neog CEO & Co-founder Vantage Circle; Shikha Gupta, CHRO Luminous Power Technologies; Anurag Patnaik Director, HR Nestle; Saurabh Govil President & CHRO Wipro Ltd.; Monica Agrawal MD - APAC, Financial Services India Lead - Board Services Korn Ferry and others. These esteemed thought leaders will share their extensive expertise and insights on creating a workplace culture that thrives on inclusivity and positive reinforcement.
 

For more information about SHRM India Annual Conference, please visit www.shrmconference.org/iac.
 

About SHRM India

SHRM is a member-driven catalyst for creating better workplaces where people and businesses thrive together. As the trusted authority on all things work, SHRM is the foremost expert, researcher, advocate, and thought leader on issues and innovations impacting today’s evolving workplaces. With nearly 340,000 members in 180 countries, SHRM touches the lives of more than 362 million workers and their families globally.

The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and OPPO India today announced their ‘Generation Green’ campaign. The 100-day programme-managed by 1M1B (One Million for One Billion)-promotes green skills among the youth through 5,000 internship opportunities across colleges in India. 

The AICTE and OPPO India announced their ‘Generation Green’ campaign. The 100-day programme promotes green skills among the youth through 5,000 internship opportunities across colleges in India

According to LinkedIn’s Global Green Skills Report 2023, job seekers with green skills are 29% more likely to get hired than the average workforce. This initiative cultivates climate-conscious skills which will add to the students’ knowledge to make them future-ready for the opportunities of tomorrow.

“AICTE is proud to join hands with OPPO India for the Green Internship Programme,” Dr. TG Sitharam, Chairman of AICTE, said. “It is a fantastic opportunity for students to develop their skills and contribute to sustainability efforts that tackle environmental challenges and contribute towards building an eco-friendly world. Notably, OPPO India is the first electronics manufacturing company to offer internships through AICTE. This campaign is a part of the 1 Crore Internships mission of AICTE, Ministry of Education, Govt of India, and will contribute to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.”

Students from all streams, technical and non-technical, can participate in this internship program. The interns will undertake a range of hands-on activities that will inculcate their skills in project management, sustainability practices, effective communication, collaboration, research, and data analysis, enhancing their overall employability. Students will take the Green Pledge and participate in awareness sessions, E-surveys, and Green Day celebrations. 

“At OPPO India, we are aligned with the Net-Zero vision of the Government of India. Our aim is to create a macro movement towards sustainability that is driven by the power of youth,” said Rakesh Bhardwaj, Head, Public Affairs at OPPO India. “Today, we are nurturing 5,000 sustainability champions who are going to further influence the next generation of changemakers. Through the programme, at least 10 lakh students from schools and colleges nationally will be provided with the right knowledge and values towards supporting a sustainable community. We are delighted to partner with AICTE in this transformative initiative and will continue to amplify the impact in this direction through our collective efforts.”

Dr. Buddha Chandrasekhar, Chief Coordinating Officer, AICTE, added, “The AICTE internship portal hosts over 50 lacs internships, aiming to reach 1 Crore by 2025. We are pleased to partner with OPPO India to offer 5000 sustainability internships. Balancing development with sustainability is vital for India. Engaging youth in effective e-waste management is essential, as their commitment and innovation can help build a cleaner, sustainable future. Students participating in these internships may also earn 2-3 academic credits.”

These efforts aim to increase environmental awareness and promote sustainable practices among students. The opportunity is now available on the AICTE internship portal and students can apply through this link: www.iamgenerationgreen.com. 

All Interns who complete the programme’s activities will receive certificates jointly accredited by AICTE, OPPO India, and 1M1B. 

OPPO is a leading global smart device brand. Since the launch of its first mobile phone-“Smiley Face”-in 2008, OPPO has been in relentless pursuit of the perfect synergy of aesthetic satisfaction and innovative technology. Today, OPPO provides a wide range of smart devices spearheaded by the Find and Reno series. Beyond devices, OPPO provides its users with the ColorOS operating system and internet services like OPPO Cloud and OPPO+. OPPO operates in more than 50 countries and regions with more than 40,000 of OPPO’s employees dedicated to creating a better life for customers around the world.

Empowering Careers with Practical Skills
 

By using real time live projects into the learning process, PracticePot connects theoretical knowledge with practical application. It gives graduates the hands-on expertise needed to succeed in today's competitive job market. This platform is changing how skill courses are taught, making sure learners are ready for industry demands.

Finprov learning has been accredited by NSDC, ISO and STED council and also partners with leading software providers like SAP, Tally, and Zoho Books. Finprov also received the Star Career Counsellor Award from Tally and was recognized as the Best Skill Training Institution by the Association of Commerce Teachers Idukki, Kerala. Finprov is a leading upskilling partner for different universities and leading colleges.

Finprov Learning focuses on providing a well-rounded education beyond traditional studies to prepare their students for today's competitive job market. The training emphasises on practical skills with over 100 real-life case studies and assignments. Finprov offers certifications recognized worldwide to boost students' credentials and use technology, e-learning modules and fun activities to keep learning engaging. Students also gain hands-on experience filing statutory returns and preparing for bank tests using mock websites.

Finprov’s curriculum is designed with input from employers to ensure it meets industry standards. Finprov also offers placement training to help students improve their interview skills and personality development. Industry experts regularly share their knowledge with students, and we collaborate with colleges to enhance career opportunities. For flexibility, students have the option to attend classes both online and offline.

Areas of Expertise

Finance & Accounting: Finprov provides accounting courses from 15 days to 9 months to meet the high demand for accounting professionals. These courses such as PG Diploma in Indian and Foreign Accounting (PGDIFA), PG Diploma in Business Accounting and Taxation (PGBAT), Business Accounting Specialist Program (BASP), International Business Accounting Professional (IBAP) prepare graduates for job opportunities in India and in the Gulf countries. The staff are experienced accounting professionals who provide high-quality education with 24*7 mentorship support. With modern facilities and a commitment to excellence, Finprov ensures their students receive the best training and resources to help them achieve their career goals.

Digital Marketing: The digital marketing field is frequently changing at present. Finprov offers digital marketing course specializing in AI and eCommerce to fulfil the demand for online presence and digital strategies in businesses. These courses ranging from one to six months are designed for roles like digital marketing managers, SEO specialists, content marketers, social media managers, and data analysts.

Banking: Bank jobs are highly sought-after for their competitive pay and stability in the job market. Finprov offers online coaching for bank exams and retail bank training for private bank jobs, helping aspirants prepare effectively to secure their dream jobs in just four months.

Finprov identifies each individual's unique talents and help them achieve their career goals. Finprov also provides 360-degree career assistance to all learners, assisting candidates to get public and private bank jobs.

About Finprov

Finprov started in 2019 when its founder, CA Anand Kumar, and his team of industry experts noticed a huge skill gap in the job market. Despite good grades, many graduates struggled to find jobs because of the lack of industry-relevant skills.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) predicts India will face a 29-million skill deficit by 2030. Finprov addresses this gap by offering practical training that equips graduates with essential skills for today's workplaces. Starting small in Kochi, Finprov now runs 11 centres across South India and online learning worldwide.

True to their tagline Skill UP Rise UP, Finprov is steadfast on its vision to be the premier one-stop solution for skilling, connecting learners and employers through comprehensive learning experiences. It has a strong record, successfully placing 90% of its students who complete its job-focused programs.

Ms Achal Khanna, CEO SHRM India, APAC and MENA
 

With the aim of building a truly transformative world, the two-day conference kick started with thought provoking discussion on the seismic shift in the work landscape that is driven by rapid technological progress, delving into the cutting-edge Work-Tech ideas that can empower organizations.

Talking about the conference Ms Achal Khanna, CEO of SHRM India, APAC and MENA, said, "As we navigate through the complexities of the modern workplace, technology emerges not just as a tool, but as a catalyst that redefines our approach to human resource management. SHRM Tech24 underscores the importance of embracing innovative technologies to build more inclusive, efficient, and resilient organizations. Upskilling and training to keep pace with the latest tech and innovations it’s the need of the hour. At SHRM, we are committed to offering an effective platform for accessing these opportunities. Moreover, integrating technology across different sectors while leveraging human creativity and intellect is the ultimate driving force behind achieving ROI and success."

The day was packed with dynamic sessions, keynotes, and panel discussions, featuring a robust lineup of speakers from various sectors including D Shivakumar Conference Chair, Operating Partner Advent International Private Equity; Ramesh Ramadurai, Managing Director, 3M India; S Sivakumar, Group Head – Agri and IT Businesses, ITC; Anurag Dahiya, Chief Commercial Officer ICC; Sharad Sharma, Co-Founder iSPIRT foundation who shed light on the transformative impact of digital infrastructure on India's business landscape.

Adding to this, Mr Nick Schacht, Chief Commercial Officer, SHRM, “Today we know more about Generative AI than we knew a few years back. In fact, HR Tech is the single biggest trend in the industry currently. It is interesting to note that companies are beginning to develop approaches to better understand how to use AI effectively building tools to implement the same. This also opens a wide range opportunity that can leverage the increased productivity coining the term the ‘Next Practices’. At SHRM we are also working closely with Microsoft to develop a tool to guide HR professionals on how to implement AI in the HR. Furthermore, using AI serves as a platform to develop operating principles turning HR professionals into work consultants helping employees skill and reskill themselves to keep up with the evolving pace."

The second half of the day was followed by a TED-style talk, with industry leaders Babita Baruah, CEO of VML India, and Poonam Kaul, Founder of House of Omkar and Walnut Tree (CMO-on-Demand), who shared insights on staying relevant in the digital world and navigating the challenges of advertising in the era of AI.
 

Over 5000 delegates were hosted at the conference today. The two-day conference will be packed with opportunities to learn from HR visionaries and technology innovators. Looking forward to day 2 of the conference will continue with topics including effectiveness and limitations of AI, the future of work and the role of empathy in a changing landscape, predictive analytics for employee retention and others.

About SHRM India

SHRM India is the Indian subsidiary of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the world's largest HR professional society, representing 340,000 members in over 180 countries. SHRM India equips HR professionals and organizations with the essential resources, connections, and insights needed to address the complexities of HR management in today's dynamic business environment.

 

AmbitionBox, India's No. 1 platform for company reviews and salary insights has unveiled the list of India’s most gender-inclusive workplaces as part of the Top Rated Companies for Women to Work for 2024, rated by over 2.8 lakh women employees from over 50,000 companies across 16 categories. AmbitionBox Employee Choice Awards 2024 (ABECA) awards put a special spotlight on companies leading the way in creating inclusive environments for women in the workforce.

 

AmbitionBox Employee Choice Awards 2024

 

The importance of gender diversity in the workforce cannot be overstated. A recent OXFAM India Discrimination Report highlighted a staggering 22% gender pay gap for the same job roles, with men earning Rs. 19,779 on average while women earned Rs. 15,578.

 

However, positive change is underway. Data from EY reveals that women's representation on corporate boards has increased from 6% in 2013 to 18% in 2022, reflecting a growing commitment to fostering inclusivity at the highest levels of leadership.

 

Mayur Mundada, Founder and Business Head of AmbitionBox, said, "AmbitionBox aspires to become the preferred platform for the Indian workforce, providing them with the means to explore potential employers and access genuine company reviews from their employees, fostering transparency and informed decision-making. With ABECA, we're proud to recognise organizations driving positive change for women in the workplace."

 

He further added, “What makes ABECA unique is its transparency – all reviews are anonymous employee submissions, truly capturing the experiences of those working in these cultures.”

 

Key Gender Inclusion Efforts by Top Winners:

JP Morgan is fueling female ambition and financial equity through their 'Women On The Move' initiative focused on recruiting, retaining, and promoting more women into senior leadership roles across the firm. The program also educates and empowers women clients and communities to take charge of their financial futures.

 

S&P Global sets an example with its holistic approach - from enhancing pay transparency and reducing gender gaps to investing in women leaders' development. Their family-friendly policies like gender-neutral parental leave, menopause support, and expert-guided parental coaching are game-changers. The firm also provides gender affirmation surgery coverage, showcasing its commitment to inclusion.

 

Genpact has invested in focused talent programs like the 'Women's Leadership Program' - a year-long course designed with Harvard Business Publishing. It offers mid-career women specialized learning opportunities to position themselves as future leaders.

 

HP leads the way with their Disha initiative. This impactful program empowers women through a six-month leadership development program. Disha graduates boast impressive results: nearly all (90%) remain with HP, transitioning vertically or laterally within the company. Notably, some have even pursued international opportunities with HP.

 

These statistics showcase the power of investing in your workforce. Initiatives like Disha foster loyalty, growth, and a competitive edge.

 

Synchrony sets a high bar for family-friendly benefits. They offer comprehensive year-round support, exceeding one-off initiatives. This includes fertility/infertility preservation coverage, surrogacy coverage, day care reimbursement for up to 5 children, mother care support as well as parental expense reimbursements. This commitment allows women to excel in their careers while having the financial security needed to manage their families.

 

Please refer to this link to access ABECA 2024 Top Rated Companies for Women.

 

About AmbitionBox

AmbitionBox is India’s no. 1 platform for company reviews and salary insights. It is an online platform for users to search and share company reviews, salaries, potential interview questions, and more. Launched in 2015 and acquired by Naukri in 2016, the platform benefits both job seekers and employers, offering employers to improve their employer brand through various tools, encourage employee reviews, showcase their work culture, introduce team members, highlight employee benefits, and gain insights about their company's page. ambitionbox.com

The fresh look features a modern, lowercase typeface for ‘hrkatha’ that strikes a balance between approachability and professionalism. The cleverly designed ‘hr’ portion serves a dual purpose: a unique symbol and an integrated part of the brand name. Upon closer inspection, the ‘hr’ reveals a subtle ‘1’ signifying HRKatha’s leadership position in the HR news landscape. The flowing lines then evolve into an ‘h’ and an ‘r’, resembling a fountain – a symbol of growth, progress, and continual forward motion. The design culminates in a diamond at the top, representing achievement and leadership in professional life. Subtly, the combined ‘hr’ and diamond evoke a human figure with open arms, celebrating success and growth.

Accompanying the visual transformation is the new tagline, ‘Crafting Human Potential’. This tagline underscores HRKatha’s unwavering commitment to helping individuals discover and unleash their full potential.

The vibrant colour palette reflects the brand’s core values with purple signifying creativity, green representing growth, blue symbolising trust, pink conveying excellence, and yellow representing joy and happiness. This spectrum also represents the diversity and inclusivity that are central to HRKatha’s mission of serving the ever-evolving HR sector.

“This fresh visual identity, characterised by its inclusivity and vibrant colours, symbolises our commitment to continuous evolution and innovation,” said Prajjal Saha, Founder & Editor, HRKatha. “We’re dedicated to enhancing the reader experience and engagement with HRKatha. We believe this new look will not only captivate the senses but also elevate user interaction with our platform to new heights.”

HRKatha enlisted Visual Brand Consultant Mandy Kulkarni to oversee the transformation of their brand identity and revamp their website. "My vision was to create a brand experience that feels fresh with discerning symbolism, visually striking, and celebrates the 'vibrant people' aspect of the HR community," shares Mandy Kulkarni.

In addition to the visual overhaul, HRKatha has ambitious plans for the year ahead. With a renewed focus on producing powerful content, HRKatha aims to deliver even more relevant, unbiased and compelling stories for the HR industry while staying true to its core journalistic ethos. The platform will supercharge its content, offering unparalleled insights into the ever-changing HR landscape, addressing pressing issues such as building employer brands in the digital age, navigating the AI economy, and fostering a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion.

Furthermore, HRKatha is set to announce five power-packed business events and awards spread throughout Asia, each delving into a distinct facet of HR excellence. These events will spotlight on the emerging trends and challenges shaping the HR landscape, and offer valuable platforms for industry leaders to connect, share best practices, and celebrate outstanding achievements in the field.

HRKatha’s pioneering spirit continues – it was the first platform in India to deliver daily HR news. Today, it boasts an impressive readership of 400,000 per month, with 2 million page views. With its dynamic new brand identity and ambitious plans for the future, HRKatha remains committed to being the leading resource for HR professionals across Asia.

SHRM PSE Trends Report 2024

The forum was attended by senior leaders across sectors with noteworthy representation from Maharatnas, Navratnas, state and central PSE organizations like GAIL, SAIL, ONGC, IFFCO, Oil India, BHEL, RVNL, PFC,NBCC, Grid India, EIL, and others.

The event featured a keynote address by Shri D. Shivakumar, Operating Partner at Advent International Private Equity and a former CEO at Pepsico and Nokia India. There was also a thought-provoking TED Style Talk by Shri M Damodaran, Indian Corporate Advisor, Mentor, and Former Chairman, SEBI. Both addresses shed light on the evolving landscape of leadership and innovation within PSUs.

In conjunction with the forum, SHRM India PSE Team unveiled its flagship survey research report, SHRM PSE Trends 2024 – People Success. This comprehensive report delved into seven critical themes crucial for the future of PSUs: Developing Leaders for Tomorrow, Women Leadership, Community Impact, Health & Wellness, Learning & Development, Technology at Work, and Employee Benefits.

Achal Khanna, CEO of SHRM India, APAC & MENA, commented on the forum's success, "This forum has set a new benchmark for discourse and development within India's public sector. By bringing together the brightest minds in the industry, we have fostered a dynamic exchange of ideas that will undoubtedly propel our sector forward. We are particularly proud of the insights shared in our ' SHRM PSE Trends 2024' report, which highlights a strong commitment to training and development with more than 87% of PSU participants confirming investment in these areas."

Ashissh Kaul, Director, Knowledge & Advisory and Business Head, PSE at SHRM India, added, "The 'SHRM PSE Trends 2024' report has identified key areas for growth, including the need for enhanced learning methodologies and better support for gender diversity and technological adaptation.”

Our findings show that most participants express positivity, indicating a strong commitment to employee growth and skill enhancement. Overall, most participants felt that their organisation invests enough on L&D with 87% giving a positive response. However, when we sliced the data by levels, only 60% of participants across E2-E3 levels believed that their managers are well-equipped to coach & mentor the young workforce. This number further falls to 40% when we asked the same question to participants at E4-E5 level. Additionally, the report highlights a gap in technology training, with 56% of participants indicating a lack of investment in understanding the impact of generative AI and new technologies.

One of the other highlights from the report that was highlighted was while as 90% of the men tend to believe that their organisation has created a supportive ecosystem for women to succeed, contrastingly only 73% of women felt the same. Further the report also highlighted the fact while as 84% of men believed that their organization was making investment in the advancement of women empowerment, only 77% of women agree to the same.

"The PSE Leadership Forum is not just an event but a catalyst for sustained growth and innovation across public sectors. We are committed to continuing this journey, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and collaborative development," concluded Khanna.

The forum was held at the Taj Palace, New Delhi, accommodating a large gathering of 100+ attendees and speakers across four sessions aimed at empowering PSEs for future challenges.

About SHRM India

SHRM India is the Indian subsidiary of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), the world's largest HR professional society, representing 340,000 members in over 180 countries. SHRM India equips HR professionals and organizations with the essential resources, connections, and insights needed to address the complexities of HR management in today's dynamic business environment.

PubMatic engineering team during the Hackathon event at their Pune campus
 

PubMatic recently reported record revenue of $84.6M in Q4 2023, representing an increase of 14% YoY (vs. Q4 2022) and full year 2023 revenue of $267M. This substantial growth underscores the company's ability to deliver value in an increasingly dynamic market and to invest in strategic initiatives to further solidify its position. The company also reported robust profitability and cash flow, continuing its long track record of financial strength.
 

A core contributor to these differentiated financial results is the company’s commitment to operational excellence. PubMatic is focused on enhancing the efficiency of its technology platform and operations; reducing total capex in 2023 by more than 70% over 2022 through infrastructure optimization initiatives, including:

• Capacity expansion: processed nearly 210.7 trillion impressions in 2023, an increase of 32% over 2022;

• Software-driven infrastructure efficiency: cost of revenue per million impressions processed decreased 8% on a trailing twelve-month period, as compared to the prior period;

• Increased software delivery: delivered 60% more software releases in 2023, compared to 2022 driven in part using generative AI across product development and engineering.

The company anticipates an additional 15-20% increase in engineering productivity in 2024 driven by the use of generative AI at multiple points in the software development and release process. These efficiencies, coupled with anticipated revenue growth and the company’s robust financial profile, are expected to further amplify the impact of the expanded engineering team.

“As one of the largest, independent sell side technology providers, sustained innovation has been core to PubMatic’s DNA since inception. The pioneering technology tackled by the engineering teams establishes it as the employer of choice for engineers throughout India,” said Mukul Kumar, Co-founder & President, Engineering at PubMatic. “We welcome exceptional individuals who share our vision to deliver cutting-edge solutions that address the evolving needs of the digital advertising ecosystem.”
 

Rajeev Goel, Co-founder and CEO at PubMatic further added, “We ended 2023 on an incredibly high note, marking an inflection point in revenue growth as we accelerated to 14% year-over-year growth and strong profitability in the fourth quarter. We believe we are at the early stages of a period of significant multi-year revenue growth.”
 

Demonstrating its commitment to a positive workplace culture and effective people practices, PubMatic India has earned certification as a Great Place to Work® for the seventh consecutive year, as recognized by the Great Place to Work® Institute.
 

Please visit the Careers Site to find out more about the open roles at PubMatic.

About PubMatic

PubMatic (Nasdaq: PUBM) is an independent technology company maximizing customer value by delivering digital advertising’s supply chain of the future.
 

PubMatic’s sell-side platform empowers the world’s leading digital content creators across the open internet to control access to their inventory and increase monetization by enabling marketers to drive return on investment and reach addressable audiences across ad formats and devices. Since 2006, our infrastructure-driven approach has allowed for the efficient processing and utilization of data in real time. By delivering scalable and flexible programmatic innovation, we improve outcomes for our customers while championing a vibrant and transparent digital advertising supply chain.

AmbitionBox, India's No. 1 platform for company reviews and salary insights announced the ABECA 2024 - AmbitionBox Employee Choice Awards, India’s largest employee choice awards. In the 3rd edition of these awards, this year the winners were decided based on ratings from 14 lakh employees from over 50,000 organisations across 16 categories. Only ratings from employees who have worked in the company between January to December 2023 are considered for deciding the winners in this year’s edition.

 

AmbitionBox Employee Choice Awards 2024

ABECA 2024 celebrates the diversity and achievements of companies of all sizes, from the titans of industry to the emerging powerhouses, based on their employee presence in India. Spanning a vast array of sectors including IT, financial services, automobile, retail, construction, pharmaceuticals, etc., these awards shine a spotlight on both the established giants and the innovative tech startups making waves in their fields.

These awards recognize companies that go above and beyond to prioritize employee well-being and foster a supportive workplace culture, thereby truly reflecting the actual sentiment of the workforce.

This year, the awards have a special category “Top-Rated Companies for Women” to recognize and appreciate companies that actively champion gender equality, implement policies that support work-life balance, and create opportunities for professional growth for women in the workplace. These awards reflect the evolving landscape of corporate India, where diversity and inclusion are paramount for sustained success.

Compared to its previous two editions, non-IT companies have taken all top slots this year!

What distinguishes ABECA is the unparalleled transparency and authenticity of its ratings, as all reviews are submitted anonymously by employees. Empowering those who experience the work culture firsthand, ABECA stands out as the most authentic and transparent award in the industry.

Here’s a glimpse of the top winners in the five main categories. Ranks are awarded by the Standard Competition ranking method.

1. Top-Rated Mega Companies (companies with 50,000+ employees in India)

Rank #1: Mahindra & Mahindra (4.1/5 rating)

Rank #2: Tata Steel (4.08/5 rating)

Rank #3: Shriram Finance (4.07/5 rating)

Rank #3:JPMorgan Chase & Co. (4.07/5 rating)

View all winners in the Top-Rated Mega Companies category on AmbitionBox.

2. Top-Rated Large Companies (companies with 10,001-50,000 employees in India)

Rank #1: Equitas Small Finance Bank (4.39/5 rating)

Rank #2: Google (4.32/5 rating)

Rank #3: Mahindra Finance (4.30/5 rating)

Rank #4: Lifestyle (4.30/5 rating)

View all winners in the Top-Rated Large Companies category on AmbitionBox

3. Top-Rated Mid-sized Companies (companies with 500-10,000 employees in India)

Rank #1: Nippon Koei India (4.6/5 rating)

Rank #2: L&T Transportation Infrastructure (4.55/5 rating)

Rank #3: Dainik Bhaskar Group (4.4/5 rating)

Rank #3: Sanofi (4.4/5 rating) 

View all winners in the Top-Rated Mid-Sized Companies category on AmbitionBox

4. Top-Rated Tech Startups (companies with 501-1000 employees in India and founded after 1st January 2014)

Rank #1: Rentomojo (4.33/5 rating)

Rank #2: Amber (4.26/5 rating)

Rank #3: upGrad (4.14/5 rating)

View all winners in the Top-Rated Tech Startups category on AmbitionBox

5. Top-Rated Companies for Women

Rank #1: Amazon (4.05/5 rating)

Rank #2: JP Morgan & Chase Co. (4.04/5 rating)

Rank #3: IBM (4.01/5 rating)

View all winners in the Top-Rated Companies for Women on AmbitionBox

In addition to the five main categories, winners are announced in eleven popular industries: IT/ITES, Internet/Product, Banking, Financial Services, Pharma, Retail, Automobile, Construction, FMCG, Consumer Electronics, and Energy & Power. 

View the full list of winners on the AmbitionBox website.

AmbitionBox is India’s No. 1 platform for company reviews and salary insights. It is an online platform for users to search and share company reviews, salaries, interview questions, and more. Launched in 2015 and acquired by Naukri in 2016, the platform benefits both job seekers and employers, offering employers to improve their employer brand through various tools, encourage employee reviews, showcase their work culture, introduce team members, highlight employee benefits, and gain insights about their company's page.

For more information, please visit ambitionbox.com.

The two-day long SHRM India Tech'24 Conference & Expo will serve as a platform for professional networking, bringing together a vibrant community of over 2500 HR and Tech leaders, including more than 500 CXOs. This gathering facilitates the forging of meaningful connections and collaborations, enriching the collective experience of all participants.

#shrmindiatech will take place in the hybrid mode, and will offer a unique opportunity for attendees to immerse themselves in the latest advancements in WorkTech solutions through an interactive virtual expo. The event boasts of a robust program schedule comprising over 40 sessions and 20+ learning hours, curated by a distinguished lineup of over 120 industry experts / speakers. Participants will have the chance to garner valuable insights, strategies, and best practices from these luminaries, fostering confidence in steering the trajectory of the future workforce.

Commenting on the announcement of the SHRM India Tech'24, Ms. Achal Khanna, CEO of SHRM India, APAC & MENA, said, "At SHRM India, we are committed to advancing the HR profession by equipping professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the evolving workplace landscape. The SHRM India Tech'24 Conference & Expo represents a convergence of industry expertise, cutting-edge technology, and innovative strategies, empowering HR professionals to lead with confidence in an era of unprecedented change."

“At its core, the SHRM India Tech'24 Conference & Expo is designed with a singular mission: to equip HR professionals with the indispensable knowledge and tools needed to navigate the evolving workplace terrain. The conference & expo promises to be a beacon of innovation and enlightenment for the HR community,” she further added.

The conference's dynamic format ensures engagement for attendees of diverse learning styles. From keynote addresses by industry trailblazers to interactive masterclasses, live demonstrations of cutting-edge WorkTech solutions, fireside chats with esteemed leaders, and engaging panel discussions, the event offers a multifaceted learning experience tailored to cater to varying preferences and interests of the stakeholders.

Delving into the thematic aspects shaping the future of HR practices, the conference explores a wide spectrum of topics. From the burgeoning realm of employee experience (EX) platforms to the strategic integration of AI in recruitment and talent management, cybersecurity protocols for remote work environments, ethical considerations in deploying WorkTech solutions, and the imperative of prioritizing employee wellness through technology, the event offers comprehensive insights into navigating the digital age workforce landscape.

Moreover, the conference shines a spotlight on critical imperatives such as reskilling and upskilling initiatives, fostering a human-centric approach to AI integration in the workforce, nurturing talent pipelines, harnessing the potential of augmented reality in learning and development, and understanding the dynamics of the freelance workforce, among other pertinent subjects. Throughout these discussions, the emphasis remains steadfastly anchored on fostering workplace inclusivity and belongingness, even as technology continues to evolve and redefine traditional paradigms.

This year’s speaker lineup includes Rajiv Bajaj, Managing Director, Bajaj Auto Ltd.; D Shivakumar, Conference Chair & Operating Partner, Advent International Private Equity; Nick Schacht, SHRM-SCP, Chief Commercial Officer, SHRM; Achal Khanna, CEO, SHRM India, APAC & MENA; Anurag Dahiya, Chief Commercial Officer, International Cricket Council; Tejas Goenka, Managing Director, Tally Solutions; Preeti Bajaj, CEO & MD, Luminous Power Technologies; Anusha Shetty, Chairperson & Group CEO, Grey Group India; Babita Baruah, CEO, VML India; Pranjal Sharma, Economic Analyst, Advisor & Author - The Next New; Dr. Ranjan Banerjee, Vice Chancellor, Nayanta University; Prof. Rishikesha T Krishnan, Director and Professor of Strategy, Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB); Poonam Kaul, Founder, House of Omkar & Walnut Tree; Chitra Narayanan, Editorial Consultant, The Hindu Businessline; and Partha Neog, CEO & Co-Founder, Vantage Circle, among others.

About SHRM

SHRM creates better workplaces where employers and employees thrive together. As the voice of all things work, workers and the workplace, SHRM is the foremost expert, convener and thought leader on issues impacting today’s evolving workplaces. With nearly 325,000 members in 165 countries, SHRM impacts the lives of more than 235 million workers and families globally.