In today’s fast-paced work culture, corporate’s need representatives that can take care of business since worker execution is basic to the general progress of the organization. Business pioneers need to com­prehend the critical advantages of worker execution so they can foster steady and objective techniques for as­sessing representatives. Harboring almost two decades of experience, Suvarna Mishra is currently head of the Human Resources department at Sodexo BRS India. She showcases her consistency, hard work, and knowledge gathered via multiple job profiles in her career. Sodexo BRS engages in the provision of on-site services, bene­fits and rewards services, and personal and home care services. The firm offers integrated solutions that cover a variety of working and living environments and are available in client segments which include corporate, health care, education, defense, remote sites, justice ser­vices, seniors, and sports and leisure.

A prominent alma mater of BHU, Suvarna Mishra has held positions of Vice President and Human Resourc­es head and is currently working towards promoting quality of life for the employees while keeping in mind their choices and creating a gender-neutral and diverse working environment. Women Entrepreneur recently engaged in a one-on-one interaction with Suvarna, let’s hear from her.

What are some important features of your expertise as a human resource leader?

Human Resources (HR) has advanced throughout re­cent years, and to guarantee well-established achieve­ment in this sector, HR pioneers must thoroughly engage in the present and put their endeavors into making incredible communities, engaging individuals, and streamlining execution. Driving an HR group is no small undertaking and requires a set of both hard and soft skills. The requirement for technical abilities, like utilizing HR technology and extensive information on complex subjects like benefits and adherence, HR pio­neers should also likewise exhibit a whole stockpile of people skills, including compassion, communication, association, and leadership.

Can you tell us about Sodexo and what are your responsibilities being the Head of HR at the company?

At Sodexo, we believe that improving the quality of life leads to positive attitudes, increased productivity, and innate inspiration while also providing an advantage to organizations to achieve success and profitability. As a global leader in over 100 services, we strive to create an exceptional personal satisfaction experience by in­tegrating our food services, facilities management, and employee benefits to drive a sustainable future. In India, Sodexo BRS is a 100 percent digital employee motiva­tion and benefits solution provider, working with over 11,000 companies across the public and private sectors. With over 25 years of expertise and confidence, our em­ployee benefits solutions are designed using advanced technology to assist organizations and foster their best-motivated workforce.

Sodexo offers digital employee benefits solutions in­cluding meals, incentives, recognition, and gifting. Our latest product is the Sodexo Multi-Benefit Pass, a digi­tal solution that allows organizations to deliver multi­ple employee benefits such as meals, fuel, telecom, and learning and development on a single card and mobile app.

Sodexo BRS India launched an AI-based chatbot named 'Amber' in 2019 to improve employee experi­ence and gather feedback. The company also focus­es on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) through a cross-functional team called Sotogether. Sodexo BRS India has also made changes to its policies to support employees by providing gender-neutral policies and training modules for employee development.

 "Recruit character, train skills"

As an HR leader, my expertise includes developing procedures, creating a strong brand, implementing technology, and promoting diversity. At Sodexo BRS India, I focus on reinforcing business values through employee feedback, promoting diversity, and creating equal opportunities. I have successfully introduced key initiatives in Talent Acquisition, Talent Management, Learning and Development, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Engagement, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

Throw some light on the most critical business challenges encountered by you in your current role. What steps did you take to overcome the roadblocks?

During my tenure at Sodexo BRS India, I have navigated several challenges, including the digital transforma­tion of the business model, managing the effects of the worldwide pandemic, and fostering a culture of contin­uous learning within the organization. In 2019, we part­nered with Zeta to improve the employee experience through a combination of cutting-edge technology and expert management. The COVID-19 pandemic brought about a shift towards hybrid work, and we ensured that all employees were supported during this time through measures such as medical bill coverage and specialized leave for those infected with the virus. Sodexo BRS In­dia values experienced employees, providing opportu­nities for growth and recognizing those who have seen the business evolve through the years.

How has your Alma Mater, BHU, impacted your professional journey, and what would your advice be to young women who aspire to become business leaders and entrepreneurs in the future?

My alma mater, Benaras Hindu University, helped me develop essential qualities such as discipline, integrity, and independence which would not have been possible without the dedicated faculty. My advice to young peo­ple is to discover their passions and never let them fade and continuously strive to learn more and always chal­lenge themselves. Turn your passion into knowledge and don't be afraid to share it and this will pave the way for you to become a leader.

Suvarna Mishra, Head Of Human Resources, Sodexo

Suvarna Mishra has completed her formative years at esteemed educational institutions and pursued a graduate degree from the illustrious BHU before pursuing her MBA degree in HR and Marketing from IBS Hyderabad.