Kontempore partners with KSOM for its 14th National HR Konclave

Theme: Building a Sustainable Inclusive Future – the Role of Business: Leveraging HR Technology for Competitive Advantage

Knowledge Partner: Kontempore Leadership & Business Solutions

KIIT School of Management (KSOM) organized its 14th National HR Konclave on August 5, 2023. Prof. Isa Mishra, Convener, extended a warm welcome and greetings on behalf of Dr. Achutya Samanta, Hon’ble Founder,  KIIT & KISS, to everyone present in the event. She introduced the esteemed corporate dignitaries and set the context for the day.

Prof. Sumita Mishra, Dean, KSOM in her welcome address highlighted the importance of annual conclaves and how it has strengthened KSOM’s corporate connect over the years. She stressed that academic industry collaboration is critical for any good B School to move forward.

Prof. Sasmita Samanta, Vice Chancellor, KIIT DU, in her address, elaborated on the importance of human rights and human dignity in this fast-paced, competitive world. She cited India as a remarkable manifestation of both. She opined that as a nation of inclusion and diversity, India creates socially conscious students, where human values are an integral part in all business strategies.

Prof. Kumar Mohanty, Director, Corporate Relations, KIIT DU, gave the Vote of Thanks. He reiterated that KSOM & KIIT always prioritize industry collaborations and it is an imperative parameter for any global University.

The inaugural session was followed by two panel discussions. The first panel discussion was on the topic – Demographic Dynamics for Increased Sustainability. Dr. Tanaya Mishra (Head HR at Endo International Plc.) was the Moderator. Other distinguished speakers were Mr. Gaurav Saini (CHRO, HMD Global Nokia APAC & MEA), Ms. Pia Shome (Chief People Officer at U Grow Capital), Mr. Ravi Kumar (CPO, Page Industries Ltd), and Mr. Somnath Bhagavatula (Vice President – HR for India & Asia Pacific Atkins). The panel highlighted the need for ambition, respect, and adaptability for achieving desired goals. They emphasized the importance of population dynamics and the elimination of biases in decision-making. The panel also advocated for skill-focused growth and data-driven insights to ensure long-term sustainability.

The second panel discussion was on the topic – Occupational Opportunities for a Sustainable Future. Ms. Richa Verma Agrawal, Head-HR Shared Services, Compliance & Process Excellence, Flipkart was the Moderator. Other esteemed panelists were Mr. Amit Kataria, CHRO, Minfy Technologies Pvt. Ltd, Mr. K A Unni Nayar, Jt. Director Manufacturing, J K Tyres, Mr. Sumit Neogi, HR Director – India, Middle East & Africa, The Lubrizol Corporation. The panel discussed about how people are at the heart of everything and that the human aspect takes precedence in all matters of life and work. Work-life balance plays an immense role in shaping and sustaining human happiness. The panel deliberated that climate change concerns although are real, organisations are taking time to change and adapt. The concept of sustainability must be embedded in the organisational culture.

The second half of the conclave consisted of eight simultaneous workshops. Designated as ‘Synergistics’ these interactive sessions were based on topics related to Equity based solutions at the workplace, HR practices in the context of Big Bang disruptions, HR – bridging gender gaps, Leadership practices to promote Inclusion and Embedding DEI culture in organizations among others.

The HR conclave provided students with an opportunity to interact with business leaders from the industry. The conclave created a platform to connect industry professionals, academia and students.