Shweta Jain | Director of Human Resources | ICF Consulting India Pvt Ltd
Shweta Jain cannot stress enough the importance of adaptability. “Being adaptable allows individuals to navigate change, learn from setbacks, and thrive in diverse situations. It’s like having a mental Swiss Army knife – ready to tackle whatever comes your way!”
As the Director of Human Resources at ICF Consulting India Pvt. Ltd., she plays an instrumental role in shaping the organisation’s HR strategies and practices. With rich experience in HR management, Shweta is committed to fostering a workplace environment that prioritises employee well-being and aligns seamlessly with organisational goals. Her holistic approach to HR is underscored by her belief in people’s ability to change, learn and adapt in challenging circumstances.
A passion to work with people
Shweta’s journey into HR was driven by her passion for people and exceptional communication skills. “I chose HR due to my passion for people, communication skills, and the desire for diverse tasks,” she states. This intrinsic motivation has guided her career, leading her to take on multifaceted roles that bridge the gap between employee engagement and organisational performance. As she steers ICF Consulting’s HR functions, she focuses on enhancing employee experiences and promoting a culture of inclusion and collaboration.
In 2024, Shweta discovered valuable insights about the changing people and work landscape. “Pay remains paramount,” she observes, noting that over 55% of workers rank salary among their top job priorities, yet dissatisfaction with pay persists. Additionally, she highlights the challenges of remote work, which, while offering flexibility, can lead to issues like isolation and work-life imbalance. Shweta emphasises that “HR leaders should focus on employee well-being” to create a supportive environment.
Her vision for HR in 2025 reflects her commitment to innovation and empowerment: “My vision for HR in 2025 is to foster a dynamic, inclusive workplace that empowers employees, embraces technology, and drives organisational success.” This forward-thinking perspective is evident in her strategic initiatives to align HR practices with broader business objectives.
HR alignment with strategic development at ICF Consulting India
In her role as HR Director, Shweta oversees a wide array of responsibilities that directly contribute to the organisation’s success. Her strategic alignment with business goals encompasses talent acquisition, retention, performance management, and the establishment of metrics to measure success. She has cultivated an environment where employees can thrive by championing diversity and inclusion, designing learning programs, and conducting employee engagement surveys. Shweta notes, “My work has improved satisfaction, reduced turnover, and increased productivity, aligning HR practices with overall organisational success.”
Shweta recognises that workforce agility is one of the most significant challenges facing HR today. Organisations must be able to adapt quickly to changing market dynamics, technological advancements, and evolving employee expectations. “To tackle the challenge, we are prioritising continuous learning and upskilling and offering flexible work arrangements,” she explains.
Reflections from Are You In The List 2024 awards
Participating in the People Matters Are You In The List Awards powered by Aon has been a defining experience for Shweta, propelling her leadership and skills. She reflects on this journey: “The entire process forced me to reflect deeply on my achievements, challenges, and growth. It was like assembling the pieces of a puzzle—connecting my experiences to form a compelling narrative.”
The assessments, interviews, and coaching sessions not only enhanced her self-awareness but also strengthened her resolve as a leader. Facing the jury panel during the evaluation process was both a challenge and a rewarding experience. Through masterclasses led by seasoned CHROs, Shweta gained invaluable insights into crisis management and cultural transformation. “Their insights—raw, unfiltered, and battle-tested—were gold,” she emphasises.
Shweta Jain exemplifies the qualities of a transformative HR leader. Her adaptability, commitment to employee empowerment, and strategic foresight position her as a driving force in shaping a dynamic and inclusive workplace. Through her work, Shweta wants to embrace the evolving nature of work and inspire others to do the same.
Meet other HR leaders and winners of the Are You In The List 2024 awards by following #AreYouInTheList.