The market for human resource management was estimated to be worth $19.38 billion in 2021, and from 2022 to 2030, it is anticipated to develop at a CAGR of 12.8 percent. The way we work and conduct business has undergone a significant change. Better HR capabilities will enable improved career opportunities, a supportive environment centred on development and the creation of an inclusive and mission-driven business. Possessing over 17 years of experience in the industry, Preeti Ahuja (Head of People, Peak), is a seasoned professional with diverse experience across different facets of Human Resources. Preeti has been a dynamic professional who has been recognized for her outstanding skills and awarded Women Leader of the Year 2021, Global Women Leader 2022. Women Entrepreneur Magazine recently engaged in a one-on-one interaction with Preeti Ahuja, Head of People, Peak. Let’s hear from her.

What are some important features about your expertise as an HR leader?

Successful future HR leaders have their ears to the ground and possess a clear understanding of the larger organizational objectives. Leaders have a responsibility to remain composed and keep things running as normally as possible while controlling employee experience during different circumstances. This includes being empathetic, communicating openly, and putting the greater good ahead of all other concerns. The guiding principles that define my leadership style are humility, partnership building, coaching, employee empowerment, and employee engagement. I've seen emotional intelligence play a significant role and realized the HR department's responsibility to foster and coach leadership skills at all organizational levels. In my opinion, recognizing employees' achievements and empowering them rather than micromanaging, has a greater impact on fostering a strong work ethic and productivity within a firm. I've always tried to look closely at business results and stand up for clients, staff members, and other stakeholders.

Take us through your early educational journey and prior industry experience.

I have earned my B.Sc. in Statistics, MBA in Human Resources IIMM Pune), master's degree in Labor Laws Pune University, and Executive Development Programme in Human Resources Management from XLRI Jamshedpur. Prior to joining Peak, I was associated with GO MO Group AB as Head of People. I have also worked at Alfa Laval, Lear Corporation, Emerson, Gemstone Systems and Larsen & Toubro. ‘Project Equality’, which sought to achieve gender equality, was one of my major undertakings. I was Project Lead for India. We achieved 100 percent global pay equality for employees across genders, races, and ethnicities in the first three years after the project's introduction. Women made up 28 percent of newly hired employees, while 46 percent of global promotions went to female coworkers. I joined the Women's Indian Chamber of Commerce & Industry (WICCI), am the president of the India-Sweden Business Council & the National President Manufacturing Council, and am also collaborating with Niti Aayog to foster leadership and expertise across all societal and economic strata.

Throw some light on the different responsibilities you shoulder as the Head of People. What are your primary focus areas in terms of driving growth for the company?

To help provide a world-class people agenda and culture, I'm committed to strengthening culture, adding value for teams and organizations, increasing engagement levels, and growing talent and leadership. I am in charge of upholding an organization's culture, which entails making sure all divisions adhere to its goal, vision, and values.I provide experienced leadership and direction for the formulation and execution of Peak's people strategy. Effective, knowledgeable human resource (HR) services are provided under the supervision of the role. We must make sure that we hire, retain, and advance highly qualified and motivated individuals for all facets of our organization, including the development and ongoing implementation of crucial HR policies and strategic goals. I keep enhancing our organization's strategy and knowledge. fostering and accrediting inclusion, equity, and diversity in the workplace.

"Successful Future Hr Leaders Have Their Ears To The Ground And Have A Clear Understanding Of The Larger Organizational Objectives"

Tell us about the various challenges you encounter as an HR leader in today’s times?

One of the biggest issues facing HR professionals is navigating the rapidly evolving technological landscape and the numerous tools created to increase productivity and efficiency without losing sight of the humanity that enables individuals to perform in their roles. To improve operations in the future, new methods of performing jobs will be required. Since we are now viewing these things through a new lens with automation as the main topic, the future of how work is done starts to transform and question all aspects of how HR has set things up. The skills gap is another major issue we confront, and it will only widen. Companies will need to train employees, as new technologies replace traditional skill sets at an ever-increasing rate. People's needs for adaptability, global mobility, belonging, and education must be heard.

Tell us about the key milestones you have achieved throughout your professional journey? What has been your success mantra?

Reflecting on my 17-year journey, numerous events have reaffirmed my conviction that an organization's culture is a key facilitator. We quickly converted the company to a virtual structure during the pandemic, but there were always fresh difficulties. Balancing work and personal obligations, missing face-to-face meetings, and sometimes not being able to visit the office for more than a year may all have a big impact on our staff. The most significant accomplishment in my path has been overcoming such obstacles and maintaining seamless operations. My passion for people, which is to ignite the human spark to build a better business and better world is my success mantra.

Preeti Ahuja, Head Of People, Peak

Currently Associated With Peak Ai As Head Of People, India, Preeti Has Over 17+ Years Of Work Experience From Diverse Industries And Across Different Facets Of Human Resources, Which Includes Organizational Design & Development, Talent Management, Leadership Development And Hr Transformation. She Was Awarded Women Leader Of The Year 2021, Global Women Leader 2022.