Leaders
The HR Shared Services Leader plays a central role in ensuring seamless and smooth operations of HR Ops functions and the efficient delivery of HR services. Recently, there has been increasing recognition and appreciation for the contributions of women in these leadership roles. Women leaders bring unique perspectives, skills, and leadership qualities to HR operations and shared services. Additionally, they excel in crucial areas such as communication, empathy, relationship-building, and problem-solving, which are crucial for effectively managing HR Ops functions and addressing the diverse needs of employees.
Divya's journey exemplifies resilience, determination, and the pursuit of excellence. Her decision to pursue higher education in the United States, despite societal expectations, demonstrates her courage to step out of her comfort zone and pursue her dreams. Securing a permanent position in HR after graduating during a challenging economic recessional period in 2009 highlights her exceptional talent and dedication.
Divya's background in Information Technology and Management Information Systems equipped her with a unique blend of technical skills and business acumen, enabling her to excel in roles bridging technology and HR operations. Her expertise in implementing and optimizing HR systems such as Oracle, Workday, SAP SF, and ADP reflects her commitment to driving organizational efficiency and innovation in HR processes.
Moreover, Divya's resilience and determination, forged through early life challenges and setbacks, have shaped her into a dynamic leader capable of overcoming obstacles and inspiring others. Her journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and the importance of pursuing one's passions despite adversity.
As Director of HR Shared Services, Divya brings extensive experience, expertise, and a people-centric approach to drive continuous improvement in products, services, and processes. Her efforts help individuals and organizations consistently enhance their performance and achieve success. Her leadership exemplifies the valuable contributions that women make in shaping HR operations and fostering a culture of excellence and inclusivity within organizations.
Let’s dive into this one-on-one interaction to hear more from Divya.
Could you elaborate on your extensive industry background and the key milestones you've encountered along the way?
Drawing from my broad experience in both HR and technology domains, I bring a deep understanding of the strategic and operational facets of human resource management. My professional journey has been punctuated by several pivotal moments. One key milestone was leading large-scale implementations of HRIS, which revolutionized HR operations by enhancing data accuracy and accessibility. This initiative streamlined processes and significantly improved the overall efficiency of our HR functions. We also implemented advanced analytical tools to measure success and facilitate data-driven decisions.
Divya's Background In Information Technology & Management Information Systems Equipped Her With A Unique Blend Of Technical Skills & Business Acumen, Enabling Her To Excel In Roles Bridging Technology & HR Operations
Additionally, overseeing global HR shared services centers provided me with valuable insights into refining processes and elevating service delivery across diverse geographical regions. This experience was crucial in understanding the nuances of managing HR operations on a global scale.
These diverse experiences, combined with a steadfast commitment to employee experience and process optimization, have equipped me to spearhead impactful HR transformations and effectively support organizational advancements.
Could you shed some light on the key areas of expertise you've honed over your tenure as a leader in the realms of HR Operations, Technology, and People Management?
As a leader in HR Operations, Technology, and People Management, I have developed a diverse skill set encompassing human resource operations, technology integration, and people management. My expertise includes optimizing HR processes with state-of-the-art HRIS systems, ensuring seamless data integration and analytics for strategic decision-making. I have a proven track record of leading large-scale digital transformation initiatives in fast-paced environments to enhance employee experience and operational efficiency. Additionally, I excel in guiding cross-functional teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and using data-driven insights to align HR strategies with organizational goals. I have developed expertise in creating high-performance teams and stabilized HR operations through strong leadership, clear goals, and open communication. My focus on employee engagement, continuous development, and efficient processes enhances performance. I leverage data-driven decision-making, foster adaptability, and innovation, and prioritize recognition and a supportive environment, all of which ensure ongoing growth and well-being.
What are your primary areas of focus when it comes to fostering growth for the organization?
Our HR Global Delivery Center is committed to delivering world-class HR services, ensuring compliance, and meeting both employee and organizational needs. By streamlining & Optimizing HR Operations, we aim to provide employees with a seamless experience. Through process optimization and technology utilization, we streamline operations to offer quicker responses, improve service quality, and enhance satisfaction. Our overarching goal is to enable other HR teams to focus on strategic initiatives while we manage day-to-day operations. We play a crucial role in enhancing the employee journey and fostering organizational growth by providing superior HR services, maintaining operational excellence, leveraging data-driven insights, and promoting continuous improvement. Our key focuses for driving the company’s growth include optimizing HR processes, improving the employee experience, and increasing organizational efficiency.
"Divya's Journey Serves As A Testament To The Transformative Power Of Perseverance & The Importance Of Pursuing One's Passions Despite Adversity"
We ensure that our services remain agile, simplified, responsive, and aligned with the company's strategic objectives, thus contributing to the company's overall success. Maya Angelou's renowned quote strikes a deep chord in the service industry: 'I've discovered that while people may forget what you said or did, they'll never forget how you made them feel.' My top priority is always providing exceptional service and ensuring that employees feel WOWed, valued, and appreciated. In the service industry, the key to success lies in prioritizing outside-in perspectives, employee experience, and satisfaction.
What, in your view, are some of the most pressing challenges you face in your current role? How do you tackle these obstacles?
In my current role, we face a few challenges, but we have effective solutions in place to manage them. These include managing and integrating data across diverse systems, standardizing processes while accommodating local needs, and addressing resistance to change during the implementation of new systems or best practices. Our approach involves implementing robust HRIS solutions, conducting regular data audits for integrity, and establishing global process standards. We emphasize change management strategies focused on clear communication and stakeholder engagement.
During occasional system outages, which can impact KPIs and operational delivery, effective communication with stakeholders is crucial for swift resolution and normalcy restoration. Balancing efficiency with a positive employee experience, we implement self-help Knowledge Articles, actively solicit feedback, and foster a culture of service excellence. These proactive measures streamline operations and support our organizational transformation journey, viewing each challenge as an opportunity for growth and success.
How do you anticipate the global Human Resource Operations landscape evolving in the future? Which industry trends will have the most profound impact?
The HR Operations landscape is evolving with trends like Generative AI, sophisticated HRIS Tools, and Data-Driven approach for optimizing processes and enhancing efficiencies. Remote work and hybrid models are prompting new talent strategies and digital collaboration tools, emphasizing flexibility. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are shaping HR policies for a more equitable workplace. Organizations are prioritizing employee well-being with comprehensive wellness programs, reflecting an employee-centric approach. These trends aim to make HR operations agile, inclusive and focused on employee welfare.
For aspiring women entrepreneurs and business leaders:
Live a joyful, disciplined, and ambitious life surrounded by inspiring individuals. Focus on honing unique skills to unlock endless opportunities. Be proactive and action-oriented. Embrace curiosity, practice active listening, and take calculated risks. Prioritize self-care and view challenges as powerful chances for growth. Continuously review and pursue your goals with unwavering determination. Adopt a 10X mindset, boldly stepping out of your comfort zone to expand your horizons. Read extensively, for great leaders are great readers. Always practice gratitude. I am incredibly lucky and thankful for all the opportunities given to me, the supportive leaders and team I’ve had, and my family, who supports my aspirations. I am nothing without them. I am deeply grateful to the Women Entrepreneurs Review team for this incredible initiative. It is a true honor to receive your recognition.
Divya Ppriya Suresh Babu, Director Of Global Delivery Center – Hr Operations, Vestas
Divya Ppriya Suresh Babu, Director Of Global Delivery Center – Hr Operations At Vestas, Has A Distinguished Career In Hr And Technology. After Earning A Degree In Information Technology In India, She Pursued A Master’s In Management Information Systems In The Usa. Starting Her Career As An Hrit Programmer, She Quickly Transitioned To Hr Positions. Divya Excels In Implementing Hris Systems From Scratch For Large Scale Global Organizations, Optimizing Hr Processes, And Managing Global Hr Shared Services. Her Journey Is Marked By Resilience, Strategic Acumen, And A Focus On Employee Experience, Making Her A Pivotal Leader In Driving Hr Transformation And Organizational Growth At Vestas.
