The journey of humanity's progress began with a simple yet crucial need: transportation. Carrying goods and ferrying people across distances marked the initial strides toward a more connected world. From rudimentary modes of transportation to futuristic high-speed metros, the evolution of transportation has transformed the way we live, work, and travel. Today, we revel in the luxury and convenience of multiple transport options that have woven seamlessly into the fabric of modern life. Keolis Hyderabad Mass Rapid Transit System is an everyday transport operator providing shared mobility.

Dr. Reena Das, Chief Human Resource Officer, and a visionary, constantly explores innovative approaches that can enhance the quality of both personal and professional lives of people. Her relentless pursuit of progress and betterment has been a driving force in people empowerment. Reena Das, in an engaging interview, has shared her remarkable journey and work experience in the field of human resources.

Can you mention the significant aspects of your personal and career journey?

I hail from Berhampur, Odisha. Having lost my parents in my infanthood I was raised by my mother’s family. I have inherited my passion for work from my grandparents and aunt who inspired me to strive with a purpose. I joined Cipla after completing my MBA. My interest in imparting education urged me to join Presidency College, Berhampur, where I handled a dual role of academics and administration and later as a training and placement officer at Gandhi Institute of Engineering & Technology. I cultivated pertinent skills like goal setting, perseverance, time management, and target orientation. The pursuit of a larger goal still simmered in me, and I moved to a corporate role. Since then, I have not looked back as I was chasing my dreams which seemed larger but closer. All through I held on to my tendency to work hard, complete tasks, and seek more responsibilities which helped in realizing my dreams.

My wake-up call in life came in the form of cancer in 2015 when I was reveling in my professional high point, as Head HR for Bhadra International. I treated my illness with the practicality and objectivity it warranted, working and undergoing treatment in parallel. It is said that you value all that you had taken for granted when you experience difficult times. My husband Subrata and son Armaan were my pillars of solace and support. When treatment got the better of me and I felt weak and lost, my life’s heroes pulled me up and instilled positivity in me. I would say, my family, close friends, and God above helped me stay focused, strong, and positive through my treatment.

What are the biggest challenges faced by HR leaders in today's business environment and how do you overcome them?

HR is no more a passive function in today’s corporate world. Some of the biggest challenges are talent attraction, technology, remote/hybrid work models, managing diversity and inclusion, leadership development, succession planning, and most importantly, employee engagement. My experience in Randstad (erstwhile Ma Foi) taught me to manage the complexities of work. I worked in a new geographical region, and I learned the local language to gain the trust of clients. I also acquired the nuances of management such as targets, teams, revenues, and P&L. I learned all about people management which has stood me in good stead in my later years.

"When People Are Financially Invested, They Want A Return. When People Are Emotionally Invested, They Want To Contribute"

In my current role, I am immensely supported by our Managing Director of Keolis Hyderabad, SC Mishra who is himself very passionate about talent attraction and people development. I fully endorse his conviction that employees are the greatest asset to an organization. With his guidance, I have initiated several people engagement programs related to culture, sports, training, and development. In today’s fast-paced world, newer challenges will surface every day. An open mind, a learning tendency, and genuine love and care for people can provide the gravitas to deal with challenges.

What are the three major accomplishments you have had in your career so far, and what approach have you taken to achieve success?

At Ma Foi Randstad I stabilized the channel business, working with business partners to make their centers successful. I traveled extensively and tirelessly with the single goal of achieving profits. Bhadra International was a different cup of tea as I dealt with multiple Unions and strikes while streamlining the HR function.

In Keolis Hyderabad my passion for diversity and inclusion has culminated in various programs and initiatives. Keolis globally is very DEI-centric and hence I feel I have found my place in more ways than one! As CHRO of Keolis Hyderabad, I contribute to DEI and particularly, women empowerment. My approach to work and life are very similar. An ardent believer in hard work and diligence, I give my 100 percent to anything I undertake.

What did the HR industry experience teach you?

The evolving human resources space calls for constant skill updation. HR processes are undergoing automation and I have learned to adapt to the latest trends and technologies. I cultivated the art of networking which has helped me build professional relationships giving me opportunities to share thoughts and experiences with industry experts. I have become adept at building and managing strong teams. Most importantly, I have developed problem-solving abilities which have helped in making informed decisions. I keep a very busy day but each one of my activities is purposeful. I am by nature a completer/finisher. The day I do not deliver what I have promised will be the day I stop working. Till then, my routine starts at four every morning with a pledge to myself: `I will do the needful and I will achieve my best’.

Dr. Reena Das, Chief Human Resource Officer, Keolis Hyderabad

Dr. Reena is a true warrior, ready to fight for the rights of employees and make their work life smooth and happy.