The only way to succeed in today’s rapidly changing work landscape is to embrace the unknown. Whether it’s learning new skills, meeting new people, creating new strategies or implementing seemingly impossible ideas, influential leaders do not shy away from diving headfirst into uncharted territory and learning from their experiences. The 13th edition of the People Matters Are You Awards 2024, powered by Aon, recognises and honours the accomplishments of 24 such extraordinary leaders.
After a comprehensive process spanning four months, these leaders have been chosen due to their demonstrated exceptional growth, commitment and passion. Aon’s pioneering assessment matrix, which measured the applicants’ personality and cognitive and functional competencies, helped the jury make data-backed decisions during the process.
The journey for the winners and applicants has also been equally rewarding, with valuable insights about areas for improvement and opportunities for reflection about experiences, failures, and past impacts while helping the finalists contemplate their role in the evolving world of work.
The winners of the People Matters Are You In The List 2024 Awards powered by Aon were unveiled at the People Matters TechHR India 2024, the largest HR and Work Tech conference in Asia.
Congratulations to the 24 remarkable winners poised to shape the future of work!
Akriti Vijan, Senior Manager of Human Resources, Interview Kickstart
Akriti Vijan is the Senior Manager of HR at Interview Kickstart and believes integrity is the most important ingredient for success in life. Her passion for creating dynamic workplaces and championing employee growth has driven her success in leading Interview Kickstart’s HR function. Akriti’s focus on establishing a strong HR foundation has laid the groundwork for a high-performing HR team. She has created a more efficient and effective HR function by automating key functions and enhancing employee experience through AI. Leveraging HR analytics, she harnesses data-driven insights to inform talent strategies and organisational decisions, proactively addressing workforce needs. Akriti’s vision for HR in 2025 is to leverage AI and technology for increased efficiency, enabling more strategic initiatives that drive both employee and organisational success.
Aneri Gohil, HR Manager, Mahindra & Mahindra
Aneri Gohil, the HR Manager at Mahindra & Mahindra, brings a blend of strategic insight and operational finesse to her role and believes authenticity is the foundation of all genuine personal and professional relationships. A believer in the transformative power of human capital, she views HR as the linchpin for organisational success, driven by its ability to nurture talent, foster growth and shape cultures. Aneri’s vision for HR in 2025 reflects this belief, envisioning a more responsive function poised to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving business landscape. At Mahindra & Mahindra, Aneri has played a pivotal role in reshaping the HR function into a strategic partner. She emphasises the importance of understanding business dynamics deeply to deliver impactful HR solutions. Aneri recognises that the future of work demands a flexible approach to talent management, continuous digital upskilling, and fostering a supportive work culture that accommodates diverse career stages.
Ankit Khanuja, General Manager HR – Performance, Rewards, TA and HRBP Product, Pantaloons, ABFRL
Ankit Khanuja, General Manager of Human Resources at Pantaloons, believes adaptability is essential for success in today’s fast-paced environment. He oversees performance management, rewards, talent acquisition, and HR business partnering at Pantaloons and embodies the dynamic spirit of modern human resource management. Ankit’s proactive approach to professional development has led to meaningful improvements in HR practices at Pantaloons. To make HR more strategic and forward-thinking, Ankit recommends identifying and nurturing talent, creating effective succession plans, and enhancing team capabilities, particularly in relation to AI-based tasks. He says that HR leaders and businesses can tide through the most challenging times by managing, developing, and growing talent in the organisation. For 2025, Ankit aspires to transform HR into a trusted advisor and a force multiplier for the business.
Ayush Khazanchi, Sales HR Manager – North, Marico
Ayush Khazanchi, Sales HR Manager – North, Marico, is intrigued by how technology can optimise HR processes and contribute strategically to organisational success. He epitomises a strategic approach to human resources characterised by execution agility and a relentless pursuit of developing future-ready talent within organisations. To combat modern HR challenges, he suggests organisations focus on continuous learning, diverse skill development, and inclusive leadership styles. He has played a pivotal role in developing HR capabilities at Marico, particularly in enhancing the sales ecosystem through data-driven talent management processes. These efforts are designed to foster continuous learning and adaptability among employees, which is crucial for staying competitive in the industry. His vision for HR in 2025 underscores his dedication to implementing a culture of continuous learning and inclusivity, essential for navigating the future of work with resilience and innovation.
Bhavya Vasan, Associate Director – Talent Development, PayU
Bhavya Vasan, the Associate Director—Talent Development at PayU, Bhavya embodies an unwavering commitment to resilience and continuous improvement in her personal and professional endeavours. Her journey into HR was driven by a profound belief in the transformative power of people within organisations. At PayU, Bhavya has been instrumental in enhancing HR capabilities to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving landscape. In addition to focusing on upskilling the workforce in technologies like GenAI and fostering a growth mindset that promotes adaptability and innovation, she has also championed a cultural shift towards agility and resilience through initiatives like the ‘Move fast, Bounce back faster’ mantra. Identifying the foremost challenge facing HR today, Bhavya underscores the need to develop a future-ready workforce capable of navigating technological advancements while maintaining human-centric values.
Blossom D’souza, Deputy General Manager & Lead, Campus Resourcing and Employer Branding, Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), says that infectious positivity and enthusiasm enable her to succeed in both her personal and professional life. Passionate about creating positive employer branding, recruitment, and talent management, she is committed to creating positive experiences and nurturing young talent. Leading a team dedicated to attracting, recruiting and nurturing future leaders, Blossom has been instrumental in shaping RIL’s talent landscape. Her focus on building business acumen within her team is evident in her efforts to foster a culture of continuous learning and understanding the company’s strategic direction. She believes that a deep-rooted comprehension of the business is essential for effective talent acquisition. Her vision for HR in 2025 is a harmonious blend of technology and human touch, where HR becomes an even more critical strategic partner in driving business success.
Chetna Ojha, Manager of Human Resources Business Partnering (HRBP), Flipkart Internet Pvt Ltd
Chetna Ojha, Manager of Human Resources Business Partnering (HRBP) at Flipkart Internet Pvt Ltd, exemplifies resilience, a quality she identifies as the hallmark of her professional and personal approach. She has established herself as a visionary leader committed to driving organisational effectiveness and building a positive workplace culture. Chetna has played a pivotal role in developing HR capabilities at Flipkart, and her approach involves taking on challenges that extend beyond her defined responsibilities, allowing her to hone various skills and learn diverse viewpoints. Chetna’s commitment to research-driven strategies has led to the implementation of multiple campaigns that have evolved into established practices and processes at Flipkart. Her holistic approach involves taking an outside-in perspective, ensuring that organisational needs are aligned with individual aspirations to create win-win solutions for all stakeholders involved.
Deeksha Saxena, Director – Talent, GroupM, EssenceMediacom
Deeksha Saxena is the Director of Talent at GroupM, and her fascination with the intersection of people and business strategy has led her to become an HR leader. For her, HR represents the perfect blend of leveraging her people skills to help individuals excel in their careers while contributing to organisational success. Deeksha’s approach to both her career and life is underpinned by resilience. This quality has guided her through various personal and professional challenges. Her ability to navigate and thrive amidst uncertainty has empowered her to effectively address complex talent management issues, drive organisational change, and support her teams. Deeksha has been instrumental in advancing HR capabilities at EssenceMediacom through initiatives such as building a performance-driven and career growth culture, encouraging talent development of high-potential employees, and designing effective succession planning.
Divya Jha, General Manager of Human Resources, Godrej Properties Limited
Divya Jha is the General Manager of Human Resources at Godrej Properties Limited and is inspired by the proverb, “Fall seven times, stand up eight,” exemplifying resilience and a commitment to overcoming challenges in pursuit of success. Her extensive career spans various sectors, providing her with a wealth of experience and insights into the HR landscape. At Godrej Properties Limited, Divya’s leadership in talent acquisition is characterised by her strategic collaboration with various business units to align recruitment strategies with organisational goals. This proactive approach has ensured the timely acquisition of critical talent, significantly contributing to the organisation’s agility and capability to meet market demands. She advocates for continuous upskilling and learning opportunities for employees, emphasising that navigating uncertainty and fostering an inclusive environment where individuals can thrive will be crucial. For 2025, she wants HR to become a trusted and agile partner, creating people-centred solutions to drive organisational success.
Malvika Tayal, Senior HR Manager, Nestlé Global Services India
Malvika Tayal, Senior HR Manager, Nestlé Global Services India, believes the foundation of organisational success lies in the workforce’s people. Recognised for her profound expertise in human resources and commitment to designing conducive work environments, resiliency is at the core of Malvika’s approach to her personal and professional life. Malvika’s diverse experiences across various HR functions have provided her with a holistic understanding of the discipline. Her tenure at Nestlé and previous roles at organisations have allowed her to develop comprehensive skills essential for leading HR teams. Her ability to collaborate and influence outcomes is a testament to her strategic mindset and dedication to organisational excellence. Malvika’s strategic decisions have consistently supported her organisation’s broader goals, and she emphasises the importance of navigating complex organisational structures and addressing ambiguity to enhance HR capabilities.
Mughda Mahambrey, Deputy General Manager of Human Resources, Chalet Hotels Limited
Mugdha Mahambrey, Deputy General Manager of Human Resources, at Chalet Hotels Limited, says HR offers a platform to make a significant impact through effective people management. Her professional journey reflects a profound dedication to developing people-centric strategies that drive both organisational success and employee satisfaction. In her current role, Mugdha’s focus has been on nurturing a supportive and engaging workplace environment tailored to the unique demands of the hospitality industry. Her expertise lies in crafting talent management strategies that enhance operational efficiency and guest experiences. Mugdha’s innovative mindset is evident in her implementation of flexible scheduling, gig working, and cross-training programmes. These initiatives address common industry challenges and bolster staff retention, productivity, and adaptability. She exemplifies a go-getter approach to HR, driven by a deep-seated passion for fostering inclusive, dynamic work environments, reflecting her dedication to organisational success and employee well-being and cementing her position as a visionary HR leader.
Nachiket Anekar, General Manager – HR, _VOIS (Vodafone Group)
Nachiket Anekar, the General Manager of HR at _VOIS (Vodafone Group), is known for his resilience, strategic acumen, and commitment to fostering inclusive and high-performing workplace cultures. He wants HR leaders to enhance resilience and considers it the cornerstone of both personal and professional growth,” Nachiket reflects. He enjoys adapting to change, embracing challenges, and continuously evolving to meet new demands. Throughout his career, Nachiket has played a pivotal role in enhancing HR capabilities across various domains and organisations. His experience equips him with valuable experience in talent acquisition, rewards, benefits and HR business partnering. In his current role at _VOIS, he is establishing an efficient near-shore centre in Romania to optimise HR service delivery for Vodafone Germany, showcasing his strategic agility. Looking ahead to HR in 2025, Nachiket envisions a future where technology complements a human-centric approach, prioritising employee well-being and future-proofing skills.
Pooja Mulani, Chief Manager – Corporate HR, Arvind Limited
Pooja Mulani, Chief Manager of Corporate HR at Arvind Limited, embodies a strategic approach to human resources that integrates innovation, leadership, and a profound commitment to designing a diverse and inclusive workplace culture. Her passion for adding substantial value through HR initiatives set the foundation for her career in the field. She believes that HR has the ability to impact all facets of an organisation through strategic people interventions, and she enjoys connecting the dots across different functions and initiatives to drive holistic outcomes. Throughout her career, Pooja has been instrumental in enhancing HR capabilities across organisations. Her initiatives at Arvind Limited have significantly reduced early attrition, streamlined HR processes through digitisation, and optimised organisational structures for efficiency and cost-effectiveness. For the future, Pooja envisions leveraging the collective potential of a multigenerational workforce while championing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Preeti Naik, Senior Manager in the HR Centre of Excellence (COE), Khaitan & Co
Preeti Naik, Senior Manager in the HR Centre of Excellence (COE), Khaitan & Co, is driven by her intrinsic curiosity about people’s behaviour and the intricate interplay of motives, values, and beliefs in professional settings. This interest motivated her to pursue a career in HR and embark on a relentless pursuit of decoding the complex interplay of human behaviour and organisational dynamics. Preeti recognises that HR is not merely about implementing policies but involves a blend of art and science. In her current role, Preeti leads significant projects within the HR COE, focusing on both process improvement and people development. Her work involves conceptualising and ideating solutions and ensuring their effective implementation across the organisation. Her proactive approach to crafting a hybrid working policy and developing diverse training methods highlights her commitment to creating a cohesive and inclusive work environment.
Richa Gupta, Deputy General Manager of Human Resources, Hershey India Pvt. Limited
Richa Gupta, the Deputy General Manager of Human Resources at Hershey India Pvt. Limited (HIPL) strategic vision and leadership encapsulate her ability to adapt, persevere, and thrive in a dynamic environment. With a multifaceted approach to HR, Richa is dedicated to building a culture of inclusivity, innovation, and continuous improvement at Hershey that aligns HR practices with organisational goals. Richa acknowledges that one of the biggest challenges facing HR today is managing and retaining talent in a rapidly changing work environment. Her proactive measures, such as implementing retention initiatives, designing a motivating team culture, and leveraging technology, have enhanced productivity and employee well-being. In her role at Hershey, Richa has been pivotal in developing HR capabilities that resonate with the company’s strategic objectives. Her responsibilities encompass strategic planning, talent acquisition, employee engagement, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and technology integration.
Roshni Durai Rajan, Country HR Head, WSAudiology
Roshni Durai Rajan is the Country HR Head for India at WSAudiology and personifies the dynamic nature of modern HR leadership. She approaches her life and work with a deep sense of curiosity and wonder, and her dedication to continuous learning and strategic HR practices has significantly shaped WSAudiology’s human resources framework. Roshni’s approach to developing HR capabilities is multifaceted, combining strategic vision with practical execution. Her work in talent management and HRBP has been instrumental in creating work environments where employees can thrive. She has been pivotal in designing and implementing innovative onboarding processes, development programs, and offboarding experiences. HR, in her view, is integral to nearly every organisational decision, from setting up new offices to acquiring companies and hiring talent. Roshni recognises the need for HR to drive real change by influencing and empowering managers to take ownership of people-related decisions.
Sanjana Rao Renati, Lead for Business Partner HR | Infosys Ltd
Sanjana Rao Renati is the Lead for Business Partner HR (BPHR) at Infosys Ltd, where she plays a role in bridging the gap between organisational objectives and human capital management. By embracing the uncertainty and unpredictability of HR, her professional journey reflects her belief that “no day is the same,” highlighting the dynamic nature of her work in human resources. With a deep-seated commitment to fostering a people-centric work culture, she thrives on the thrill of solving complex organisational challenges, ensuring that the human element remains at the core of all initiatives. Sanjana is acutely aware of the challenges facing HR today, particularly in leveraging technology and artificial intelligence to enhance HR functions. At Infosys, she supports an automation and AI track to identify opportunities for technological integration within HR processes.
Saranya Jayakumar, Associate Director of Organisation Development, LTIMindtree
Saranya Jayakumar, Associate Director of Organisation Development, LTIMindtree, views HR’s potential as a catalyst for managing and developing an organisation’s most valuable asset—its people. Drawn to HR from an early age, her career trajectory is marked by a profound commitment to leveraging her interpersonal skills and problem-solving abilities to enhance organisational effectiveness and employee growth. Saranya’s contributions to LTIMindtree have been instrumental in navigating the complexities of organisational change, particularly during a significant merger between the two large entities. Her role in this strategic change management initiative involved defining a new operational framework by thoroughly reviewing and integrating the frameworks of both organisations. Saranya’s vision for HR in 2025 underscores her forward-thinking approach, and she wants HR to remain focused on people, attract talent based on the right skill set, and transition to leverage the AI world in the best possible way.
Shreshtha Patnaik, Manager – HR Business Partner (HRBP), Pidilite Industries Ltd.
Shrestha Patnaik is the Manager – HR Business Partner (HRBP) at Pidilite Industries Ltd. and her journey into HR was fueled by an intrinsic desire to lead and connect with people. She has distinguished herself as a dynamic leader in the field, blending empathy with strategic acumen to drive transformative changes across organisations in diverse industries. This foundational belief has guided her approach throughout her career, where she has demonstrated a commitment to fostering positive organisational cultures. Addressing the pressing issue of talent retention, Shrestha has implemented a comprehensive attrition analysis framework at Pidilite. This approach involves conducting detailed exit interviews, partnering with external consultants, and performing in-depth analyses to identify and address key factors contributing to employee turnover. Shrestha’s ongoing dedication to improving talent management and retention continues to drive meaningful change, positioning her as a leading figure in the HR community.
Shweta Jain, Director of Human Resources, ICF Consulting India Pvt Ltd
Shweta Jain, Director of Human Resources, ICF Consulting India Pvt. Ltd., 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. As she steers ICF Consulting’s HR functions, she focuses on enhancing employee experiences and promoting a culture of inclusion and collaboration. 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 recognises that workforce agility is one of the most significant challenges facing HR today. Through her work, Shweta wants to embrace the evolving nature of work and inspire others to do the same.
Smriti Khanna, Vice President – HR, WOW Skin Science
Smriti Khanna, the Vice President of HR at WOW Skin Science, personifies a strategic, empathetic approach to human resources, driving inclusivity, innovation, resilience, and employee well-being. Her journey into HR was sparked by the desire to add tangible value to businesses through strategic talent interventions that empower individuals and build inclusive workplaces. At WOW Skin Science, Smriti has played a pivotal role in developing HR capabilities that align with the organisational vision. She has spearheaded initiatives ranging from talent management systems to crisis response protocols to enhance organisational efficiency and employee engagement. Addressing the biggest challenge in HR today, Smriti identifies the need to adapt to rapid changes while prioritising employee engagement and well-being. Her vision for HR in 2025 reflects a commitment to harnessing data and technology to create inclusive, resilient, and future-ready organisations.
Snehankita Bose, Senior Vice President of Human Resources, HSBC
Snehankita Bose, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at HSBC, is on a mission to understand the intricate relationship between people and organisational success. She believes HR isn’t just about policies and processes; it’s about shaping the employee experience, fostering collaboration, and driving performance. Snehankita believes that a fundamental aspect of successful HR leadership is a deep understanding of business dynamics, teams, and employees. Her commitment to enhancing HR capabilities within HSBC is exemplified by her leadership of a gamified initiative designed to encourage HR team members to deepen their business knowledge. By equipping her colleagues with the necessary business knowledge and skills, Snehankita enhances the team’s ability to curate solutions that prioritise customer needs—both for the organisation and its employees. She states HR isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about asking the right questions and creating an environment where people can thrive.
Vasudeva Lakshmanan, Senior HR Business Partner, GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals India Ltd.
Vasudevan Lakshmanan, the Senior HR Business Partner for Vaccines at GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals India Ltd (GSK), believes HR is at the heart of an organisation’s success and by understanding and nurturing people, we can create a culture of innovation, performance, and growth. Vasudevan has carved a successful career in HR, driven by his innate empathy and a strong bias for action. His journey into HR was influenced by his diverse upbringing and a natural flair for language, which instilled in him the ability to connect and influence people from various backgrounds. He is passionate about leveraging his skills to create inclusive workplaces where employees can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the organisation’s success. As an HR partner to both a new business vertical and a legacy business, Vasudevan has demonstrated his ability to adapt to changing business landscapes. His work has driven culture transformation in the pediatric vaccine business, which has led to significant productivity and employee engagement improvements.
Vedanshi Tulshyan, Manager – HR Business Partner, LEAD Group
Vedanshi Tulshyan, Manager – HR Business Partner, LEAD Group, practices a profound commitment to integrity in both her personal life and professional career. With a steadfast belief in ethical decision-making, she navigates the complexities of HR, focusing on nurturing relationships and driving meaningful change within organisations. At LEAD Group, Vedanshi has played a pivotal role in transforming HR from a transactional function to a strategic partner deeply integrated into the organisation’s fabric. Her initiatives include restructuring performance appraisals to include values alongside key result areas and reinforcing a culture aligned with organisational ethos and employee development. Her approach at LEAD Group involves immersing herself in business intricacies to present HR initiatives as integral to business success. In envisioning the future of HR for 2025, Vedanshi advocates for equilibrium between business objectives and employee welfare.
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