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Rajesh Jain
Rajesh Jain
President & Chief Human Resource Officer - Welspun Enterprises Ltd.

With a rich tapestry of over 30 years of experience, Rajesh stands at the forefront of human resource strategy, Digital Transformation Strategy, and execution. At Welspun Enterprises Ltd., Rajesh has been instrumental in steering the company's business strategies with robust and aligned HR and Digital Action Plans. As a strategic HR business partner, an executive coach, A digital transformation expert, and a change leader, Rajesh brings a wealth of expertise from a variety of sectors including Infrastructure, BFSI, Renewable Energy, Electrical, and Office Automation in companies such as Xerox, Eaton, Suzlon, Srei and Welspun.

A staunch advocate for effective communication, Rajesh has been pivotal in crafting positive internal perceptions and enhancing employer branding. Beyond the corporate realm, Rajesh is an avid runner and an enthusiastic public speaker, embodying the spirit of lifelong learning and personal development.

Currently leading the charge in digital transformation, Rajesh also oversees the IT and Digital functions at WEL, ensuring the organization stays ahead in the digital curve.

Q:How do you think PeopleFirst HR Excellence awards contribute towards felicitating exceptional contributions towards HR fraternity?
A:The PeopleFirst HR Excellence Awards play a pivotal role in recognizing and celebrating outstanding achievements within the HR community. By highlighting the innovative practices and exceptional contributions of HR professionals, these awards not only bring well-deserved recognition to individuals and teams but also set benchmarks for excellence in the field. This recognition catalyses continuous improvement and encourages a culture of excellence within the HR fraternity. It inspires professionals to strive for higher standards and to implement best practices that can significantly impact organizational success.
Q:What do you think about the process adopted by the PeopleFirst HR Excellence awards, while selecting the final winners?
A:The process adopted by the PeopleFirst HR Excellence Awards is commendable for its transparency and rigor. By involving a distinguished jury to adjudicate the nominations, the awards ensure that the selection is based on merit and the contributions made by the nominees. This meticulous approach not only upholds the integrity of the awards but also assures the HR fraternity that the winners truly represent the best in their field. Such a process reinforces trust in the awards and motivates professionals to participate and strive for excellence.
Q:What advice would you offer to aspiring HR professionals who aim to excel in their careers and make a meaningful contribution to their organizations?
A:For aspiring HR professionals, my advice is to embrace a mindset of Value Addition / Valuable Contribution, Continuous learning, and adaptability. First and foremost the HR professional should have an owner’s mindset, she should understand & own the business and functional challenges and support in resolving them. Also, the Business and HR landscape is constantly evolving, and staying abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and best practices is crucial. Additionally, focus on developing strong interpersonal skills, as HR is fundamentally about connecting with people and understanding their needs. Cultivate empathy, hone your problem-solving abilities, and commit to fostering a positive and inclusive workplace culture. Remember, your role is pivotal in shaping the employee experience and driving organizational success.
Q:What role does leadership development play in your HR strategy, and how do you identify and nurture leadership talent within your organization?
A:Leadership development is a cornerstone of our HR strategy. As Dave Schrader said, “Effective, collective leadership is your one competitive & strategic advantage that no one can copy. It ensures that we have a pipeline of skilled leaders ready to take on future challenges. We identify potential leaders through Development Centres. It is a combination of performance assessments, peer feedback, and leadership potential evaluations through a third party. Once identified, we create IDPs and nurture this talent through targeted development programs such as Welspun’s GLP (Group Leadership Program), FLP(Future Leadership Program), Dhruv (First Time manager’s Program), and Urja ( Program for the Young Turks with bright sparks) mentoring, and providing opportunities for growth through Intra Group IJP, Job Rotation, and challenging projects and roles. This not only prepares individuals for leadership positions but also ensures that our organization is resilient and adaptable to change.
Q:What role, according to you does an award play in boosting the morale and productivity of the employees?
A:Awards like the PeopleFirst HR Excellence Awards serve as a powerful tool for boosting employee morale and productivity. They provide a public acknowledgment of an individual's or team's hard work, dedication, and success, which in turn fosters a sense of pride and accomplishment. This recognition validates their efforts and can significantly enhance their motivation and engagement. Moreover, it can lead to a positive workplace environment where excellence is recognized and rewarded, encouraging others to elevate their performance and contribute to the organization's goals more effectively.