Logistics firms are crucial as they ensure the efficient movement and management of goods, facilitating global trade and economic growth. Leaders in logistics firms are essential for driving innovation, optimising operations, and navigating complex supply chain challenges, ultimately ensuring the organisation's success and competitiveness. Pooja Sondhi, HR Head at Aargus Global Logistics, is renowned for her strategic leadership in workforce management and fostering organisational culture. Established in 1995, Aargus Global Logistics Pvt. Ltd. delivers award-winning logistics solutions across 14 cities, excelling in diverse sectors. Logistics firms play a pivotal role in connecting markets, supporting industries, and enabling seamless delivery of products to end consumers.

In a personal interview, Pooja shared insights on her education, career challenges, and significant milestones.

Throw some light on your expansive professional experience as an HR professional. What areas of expertise have you developed over the past 20 years in the industry?

My first job with Dainik Jagran group in 2007 holds a special place in my heart, as it introduced me to the corporate world. For about two decades of my total experience, I’ve held pivotal roles across diverse companies, including JCDecaux, Adomantra Digital India Pvt. Ltd., vCommission Media, and now Aargus Global Logistics, where I am leading the HR function for almost three years. This broad experience has given me a deep understanding of various business environments and HR dynamics. I pride myself on being a proactive problem solver, focusing on strategic HR alignment to support organizational growth. My approach includes aligning people strategies with the organization’s vision, from attracting top talent to fostering high-performance cultures. Skilled in talent acquisition, workforce budgeting, grievance resolution, and mentoring, I am committed to developing sustainable strategies that benefit both employees and the business. Mentoring the next generation of HR leaders has been especially fulfilling, as it allows me to give back and nurture future talent.

Introduce us to AARGUS Global Logistics. What are the key roles and responsibilities you shoulder as the HR Head & Admin for AARGUS Global Logistics?

Aargus Global Logistics is an award-winning company that was incorporated in 1995 in New Delhi to provide prompt, efficient and reliable services in the field of freight forwarding and total logistics solutions. As a leading lo­gistics provider, Aargus Global Logistics excels in offer­ing competitive pricing, 24/7 services, and specialised handling for time-sensitive, temperature-sensitive, and dangerous goods cargo. We consistently go beyond ex­pectations to meet our customers' needs, anticipating challenges and applying our forward-thinking mindset to advance both global trade and local expertise. At Aargus, I am heading the HR and Admin vertical and I oversee and manage talent acquisition, strategic planning, manpower budgeting, grievance addressal, onboarding, exit process­es, etc.

What key challenges do you face as an HR professional in today’s market, and how do you overcome them?

In today’s fast-evolving work culture, HR professionals face challenges in talent acquisition, employee retention, and adapting to change, especially with the rise of AI and tech solutions. While HR now leans on people analytics to identify high-potential employees and meet fair pay standards, the core focus remains on people and growth. Finding candidates with the right mix of technical skills and cultural fit is critical, and I address this by proactively sourcing through partnerships and referrals. Additionally, supporting health and well-being, meeting salary expectations, and retaining talent are top priorities, particularly as Gen Z and millennials shape workplace demands. Remote and hybrid work models add further complexity, which I tackle through structured communication, collaborative tools, and team-building efforts to keep productivity and cohesion strong. At the end of the day, human resources is about embracing change, valuing human connections, and continuously developing ourselves and those around us.

Throw light on the most significant professional milestones you have achieved throughout your professional journey. What has your success mantra been over the years?

With around 20 years in HR, I’ve achieved key milestones that have defined my career. Among my proudest accomplishments is building high-performing teams by recruiting and developing talent, ensuring organizational success. Implementing talent management frameworks has boosted retention and growth, while driving HR automation has streamlined recruitment, onboarding, and performance management, reducing costs and enhancing decision-making. I’ve also led initiatives to foster inclusive, future-ready cultures. Industry recognition, including “50 HR Innovators” by the World HRD Congress (2023) and HR Professional of the Year by HR+L&D Innovation Summit (2024), highlights the impact of my work. My guiding mantra, "Adapt, Inspire, and Empower", has kept me relevant and fostered both personal and organizational growth through adaptability, inspiration, and a people-first approach.

How do you keep yourself aligned with evolving industry practices and trends?

To stay aligned with evolving industry practices and trends, I adopt a proactive approach to continuous learning and professional development. I regularly attend HR conferences, webinars, and workshops, which provide insights into emerging trends and best HR practices. I also make it a point to follow reputable industry publications and research reports to stay informed about the latest developments in talent management, employee engagement, and regulatory updates. Engaging with online communities and thought leaders on platforms like LinkedIn further enhances my understanding of the evolving HR landscape. Then, on the personal front, I feel indulging myself in activities like yoga and meditation helps a lot and keeps me motivated throughout. By balancing external learning with practical application, I ensure that I remain agile and well-prepared to implement strategies that reflect the latest industry standards, driving continuous improvement within the organisation that I am associated with.

Pooja Sondhi, Head Hr & Admin, Aargus Global Logistics

Pooja Sondhi brings nearly 20 years of experience, specialising in fostering inclusive workplace cultures and driving organisational growth. With a disciplined approach and a commitment to continuous learning, she leverages her engineering and digital expertise to innovate HR practices.