Mysore/Mysuru: “Human Resource Management underpins the entire spectrum of business operations, where the impact of decisions matters more than intent. The field has evolved significantly and today HR professionals must be agile, open to change and ready to explore new possibilities,” said Dr. Kiranpreet Kaur, Chief of People, CPM India.

Delivering the keynote address at the 13th International Conference on ‘HR 5.0: The Human-Centric Future of Work’, organised by SDM-IMD, Mysuru, under the BCIC-SDM-IMD Centre for Management Excellence, Dr. Kaur highlighted the rapid transformation of HR landscape.

He noted that recruitment and other HR processes are increasingly technology-driven, improving efficiency and saving time.

Reflecting on the post-COVID work environment, Kaur observed that several once-unimaginable practices have become routine. Emphasising the future of HR, she stated that while technology will play a pivotal role in addressing employee challenges, its ethical and effective adoption is crucial. She also pointed out that employee mindsets often pose practical challenges, with minor issues sometimes consuming valuable time that could otherwise be devoted to more critical concerns.

Rajesh Jha, Country Sustainability Manager, ABB India, who was the guest of honour, delivered a special address on sustainability and HR.

He emphasised that HR functions play a crucial role in enabling organisations to achieve their goals and that even a single HR decision can have a far-reaching impact across the organisation. Highlighting the importance of cross-functional integration, Jha noted that sustainability in organisations is closely linked to the well-being of employees.

Speaking further on sustainability, Jha underscored the need for HR departments to focus on employee wellness, safety, community engagement, customer relations, and socially responsible initiatives. He also shared several case studies from his organisation to provide practical insights into sustainability-driven HR practices.

Dr. (Lt. Col.) S. N. Prasad, Director, SDM-IMD, Mysuru, delivered the introductory remarks, wherein he highlighted sensitive HR policies and recent developments in the field, effectively setting the context for the conference deliberations.

The opening remarks were delivered by Dr. Mousumi Sengupta, Dean – International Relations and Conference Chair, SDM-IMD.

The valedictory ceremony, was attended by Jahangir Shaikh, Director – HRBP, Zepto, as the chief guest. The conference featured technical sessions by Prof. Kamal Jain, Director, FROST and Distinguished Professor, IIM Raipur and Hemlata Ramu, Senior Director – HR, Biocon Biologics.

Another key highlight was a panel discussion on “Leveraging Technology for Human-Centricity at Work.”  The panel comprised Atul Sharma, National Vice President, ISTD and Founding Director, Solutions Wilcom Company; Smitha Bopanna, Director, Noesys Software and Naresh Babu Deevi, Chief Growth Officer, Husys Consulting Limited.

The conference witnessed  the participation of over 100 delegates from diverse sectors.

More than 70 research papers were delivered by scholars.