Featured Speakers for the Upcoming Event
Kalyan Varanasi
Associate Director - HR, PepsiCoKalyan Varanasi is an accomplished HR professional and currently serves as the Associate Director - HR at PepsiCo, bringing over 17 years of diverse experience across leading industries like CPG, BFSI, Healthcare, Finance & Accounting, and IT. Kalyan is recognized as an emerging leader under 40 by ET HR and has received the IKON HR Leader of the Year award. He has also been named among the Topmost HR Leaders in Telangana by the World HRD Congress. With a strong background in strategic HR leadership and managing the Talent Life Cycle, Kalyan has successfully handled large teams and led key initiatives in human resource development. He holds a prestigious CHRO Leadership Program certification from Cornell University. Prior to PepsiCo, Kalyan held significant roles at Genpact and Deloitte India, where he excelled in developing HR policies, driving performance, and fostering a collaborative work culture.
Kalyan Varanasi
Associate Director - HR, PepsiCo
Dr.Karthick Jayaram
About the SpeakerDr. Karthick brings over 22 years of experience in talent management, specializing in learning and development across various industries, including automotive and IT technology. With a proven track record of designing and deploying high-impact training programs, Dr.Karthick successfully designed high impact programs on niche and super niche skills. He holds a Ph.D. from NIT-Tiruchirappalli in Mechanical Engineering and has completed an Executive Program on Advanced Strategy and Leadership at the Wharton School of Business, University of Pennsylvania, reflecting his commitment to continuous learning and thought leadership. As an accomplished automotive researcher and talent management expert, Dr. Karthick has successfully guided complex programs from concept to completion, ensuring alignment with organizational goals. His innovative mindset is demonstrated by the publication of four patents, including one international patent, highlighting his dedication to technological learning and innovation. A strong advocate for sustainability, social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion, Dr. Karthick also has multipotential interests in natural farming, traveling, cooking, fitness, and music.
Dr.Karthick Jayaram
Head of Talent Management- Automotive, HCLTech
Ritu Manuja
AVP, Learning & Development, Tech MahindraRitu Manuja is a highly experienced professional with over 23 years of expertise in Learning and Development. She is currently the Associate Vice President and Global Learning Head at Tech Mahindra, where she excels in Next-Gen Services, including Automation, AI, GenAI, Cybersecurity, and Data and Analytics (DnA) training initiatives. Before joining Tech Mahindra, Ritu was part of the Education & Research team at Infosys.
Ritu Manuja
AVP, Learning & Development, Tech Mahindra
Rajeev YSR
40 Under 40 | Govt Advisor | T-HUB Startup MentorRajeev YSR, an alumnus of MIT Sloan and IIT Madras, is the Founder and CEO of EV Masterclass. A dynamic leader with global experience in P&L, Sales, Strategy, and Operations, he has worked with top companies like Bosch, Mahindra, and TVS Motors. As an Electric Vehicle Evangelist, Rajeev was named one of India's "40 Under 40" EV leaders and collaborates with NITI Aayog and the Delhi Government on EV policy. He mentors startups through organizations like T-Hub and TiE Global, and has coached over 50,000 participants in corporate settings.
Rajeev YSR
40 Under 40 | Govt Advisor | T-HUB Startup Mentor
Sree Lata Shankar
HR, L&D Head | Ex - Sr. Manager HR, General ElectricSree Lata Shankar is an accomplished HR and Learning & Development professional with a career spanning over 25 years. With a strong foundation in HR and management education, she has been teaching at top management colleges for the past 15 years, including Narsee Monjee, IIM Amritsar, Kalinga Institute, Amity University, Lovely Professional University, and many more. Her expertise extends to conducting soft skills training for corporate organizations, engineering, and business schools. A content writer and poet, Sree Lata has authored 41 poems and contributed a chapter on Human Capital Management in the book Futuristic Trends in Management. Her creative pursuits include Tanjore painting, block printing, tie and dye, and pottery, showcasing her artistic talent. As a Master of Ceremony, she has anchored numerous events and continues to be a sought-after host. Her podcast, LeadershipTalks, features industry leaders across various domains, with 14 episodes aired and a goal of reaching 100 episodes soon. An adventure enthusiast, Sree Lata has embraced thrilling activities like paragliding, bungee jumping, zip-lining, and the Tarzan swing, reflecting her zest for life. Her diverse interests, combined with her extensive experience in HR, teaching, and public speaking, make her a dynamic and inspiring leader in the field. You can explore her writing and poetry at sreelatashankar.wordpress.com.
Sree Lata Shankar
HR, L&D Head | Ex - Sr. Manager HR, General Electric
Charles Godwin
HR Leader, ZohoAn astute Human Resource Professional with 20 years in depth experience in the entire gamut of People Programs & Processes from renowned IT Industry. Extensive exposure to manage change during acquisitions & mergers, building capabilities & talent during high growth phases, executing apt HR interventions. Specialties: Talent Acquisition & Retention, Talent Management, Talent Engagement, Talent Development, Employee Relations, OD interventions, Compensation Management, Performance Management, Administration of Policies, Programmes & Practices, Employee Discipline, Employee Welfare & Branding.
Charles Godwin
HR Leader, Zoho
Mukesh Jain
CTO, VP & Global Head People Analytics, CapgeminiA Techno-Biz leader with over 28 years of experience, I have led digital transformation and innovation at multinational organizations like Microsoft, Jio, NICE, and VFS Global. My expertise spans product engineering, big data analytics, AI, IoT, and more. Known for my work in analytics, digital advertising, and product management, I frequently speak at international conferences and have authored two books, with a third in progress. I have held senior roles, including CTO at VFS Global and VP at NICE Systems, driving technology and business transformations globally.
Mukesh Jain
CTO, VP & Global Head People Analytics, Capgemini
Elton Ron Nathan
General Manager, Apollo Health And Lifestyle LimitedMr. Nathan, Head of Learning & Organizational Development at Apollo Health & Lifestyle Ltd., brings over 25 years of HR and Operations expertise across Hospitality, Retail, and Healthcare industries. A key figure in AHLL’s HR team, he has excelled in leadership development, organizational culture, NLP, and Emotional Intelligence. He has held senior roles at Jet Airways, Kuwait Airways, HCG, and Apollo, focusing on OD, Strategic HR, Talent Acquisition, DEIB, and Employee Engagement. Recognized with awards like L&D Champion 2022 and Best Chief Learning Officer 2023, Mr. Nathan’s leadership has also secured accolades such as the Golden Peacock Award for HR Excellence and recognition as a ‘Top 25 Best Company to Work For’.
Elton Ron Nathan
General Manager, Apollo Health And Lifestyle Limited
Sangram Taware
Sr. Manager, Talent Acquisition, SkillsoftSangram is a professional with a wide set of experiences across fields of human resources, operations and sales. He has a background in HR management and has a set of skills including business development, team management, account management and sales.
Sangram Taware
Sr. Manager, Talent Acquisition, Skillsoft
Avinash Thakur
Human Resources Lead, CallHealthAvinash Thakur is an experienced HR leader with a strong focus on fostering inclusivity and engagement within organizations. With half a decade at CallHealth, he has advanced from a trainee to Human Resources Lead, driving strategic talent management and innovative HR initiatives. Passionate about developing teams and enhancing workplace culture, Avinash is dedicated to cultivating an environment of excellence that contributes to organizational success. In his free time, he enjoys reading, exploring new cultures, and staying updated on HR trends.
Avinash Thakur
Human Resources Lead, CallHealth
Mario David
Vice President Organizational Development, JPMorgan Chase & CoDynamic Human Resource & Organizational Development Partner with over 20 years of extensive experience in change management, capability building, and culture transformation. A seasoned HR professional, coach, and NLP practitioner, I specialize in talent development and team building, serving as a catalyst for organizational growth. I excel in aligning business objectives with employee engagement, utilizing innovative learning strategies to enhance stakeholder value. Proven ability to build strong relationships with regional and local leaders in matrix environments, successfully delivering impactful learning and development initiatives across diverse cultures. Passionate about inspiring and empowering others to achieve their full potential.
Mario David
Vice President OD, JPMorgan Chase & Co
Janani Prakaash
Head - People & Culture, GenzeonJanani Prakaash is an HR leader with 18 years of experience and a foundation in engineering. As Head of People & Culture at Genzeon, she shapes strategic HR initiatives, from talent acquisition to culture-building. Previously, she led global HR at Quantela Inc. and served nearly a decade at Deloitte, advising on talent strategy for 4,500+ professionals. Also a leadership coach, certified yoga instructor, vocalist, and writer, Janani is recognized for her innovative, reflective leadership style and dedication to fostering growth, diversity, and engagement in dynamic business environments.
Janani Prakaash
Head - People & Culture, Genzeon
Karuna Vempala
SVP - Global TA, Cigniti TechnologiesKaruna Vempala (known as Karan) is the Head of Talent Acquisition at Cigniti, where he leads the global hiring and resourcing function. Collaborating closely with senior management and stakeholders, Karan implements strategic hiring initiatives to drive the organization’s mission of building a billion-dollar independent testing unicorn. With over two decades of experience in talent acquisition, he excels in recruiting top engineering talent in advanced technologies such as automation, cognitive computing, and robotics. Karan has extensive expertise in global hiring practices across America, South America, the UK, Canada, Europe, ANZ, South Africa, and emerging markets. Prior to Cigniti, he successfully managed large-scale hiring for multi-million dollar accounts at AppLabs (a CSC company). An alumnus of Pune University, he holds a Master’s degree in Personnel Management and other HR qualifications. Karan is also a recognized speaker, blogger, and digital media enthusiast in the HR community.
Karuna Vempala
SVP - Global TA, Cigniti Technologies
Geeta Goti
Partner, Sariga InitiativesGeeta Goti is a seasoned HR professional with over 30 years of experience in HR consulting, corporate governance, and labor compliance across sectors such as agriculture, airlines, FMCG, banking, and IT services. She has served as an Independent Director at Kellton Tech Solutions Ltd and NSIC Ltd, and is the Managing Trustee of the WISHES Foundation. Geeta is also the Joint Secretary of the Hyderabad City Security Council and a standing committee member of the National HRD Network. Her work focuses on public health, entrepreneurship, and women's security, including coaching women entrepreneurs and establishing entrepreneurship centers in colleges for marginalized communities.
Geeta Goti
Partner, Sariga Intiatives
Shilpa Kankaria
Head - HR Business Partner at Hexagon India R&DWith over 16 years of diverse experience in Human Resources, Shilpa Kankaria is a dynamic leader specializing in Business HR partnering, HR Shared Services, Policies & Compliance, Change Management, and HR Digitization. Her expertise extends to Program Management and Employee Engagement, where she has successfully driven strategic HR initiatives that align with organizational goals. Shilpa’s passion lies in enhancing organizational culture and improving the employee experience. Known for her ability to build strong relationships with leaders, she thrives in fast-paced environments, leading impactful change and fostering innovation. As the Head - HR Business Partner at Hexagon India R&D, Shilpa continues to make significant contributions to shaping progressive HR strategies and driving business success.
Shilpa Kankaria
Head - HR Business Partner at Hexagon India R&D
Sudipto Mandal
CHRO & Head - HR, Larsen & ToubroA post graduate (MBA) in HR from TISS (Tata Institute of Social Sciences, India) with over two decades of industry experience. Sudipto has experienced life cycle of HR in different stages of businesses across diverse industries, cultures and geographies including FMCG, IT/ITES, Manufacturing, Retail, Technology/ R&D and Engineering, Consulting in MNCs and large Indian conglomerates.
Sudipto Mandal
CHRO & Head - HR, Larsen & Toubro
Neena Chakraborty
Group Head & VP - HR, Rainbow Children's HospitalsNeena Chakraborty is a seasoned HR leader with a proven track record of driving transformative human resource strategies in the healthcare industry. Currently serving as the Group Head & Vice President of Human Resources at Rainbow Children's Hospitals, she has been recognized among India’s Top 100 Great People Managers for her outstanding contributions to organizational development and people management. With extensive expertise in HR technology, talent acquisition, employer branding, and recruitment marketing, Neena has played a pivotal role in implementing forward-thinking HR initiatives that foster high-performance cultures and enhance employee engagement. Her strategic vision and leadership have significantly impacted workforce transformation, ensuring talent excellence and organizational growth.
Neena Chakraborty
Group Head & VP - HR, Rainbow Children's Hospitals
Sonia Sahgal
Asia Leader- Global Talent Acquisition, MicrosoftSonia Sahgal is a distinguished HR leader with over 20 years of experience in Talent Acquisition, Leadership Development, and Organizational Strategy. At Microsoft, she plays a key role in building high-performing teams, driving inclusive hiring strategies, and shaping future-ready talent ecosystems. Her expertise spans Diversity & Inclusion, Workforce Transformation, and Employer Branding, making her a driving force in modern HR innovation. Passionate about developing people-centric workplaces, Sonia brings strategic insights into talent management, recruitment excellence, and leadership development.
Sonia Sahgal
Asia Leader- Global Talent Acquisition, Microsoft
Priyanka Chavan
Talent Partner, MongoDBPriyanka Chavan is an accomplished Talent Acquisition leader with extensive experience in hiring strategy, employer branding, and workforce planning. As a Talent Partner at MongoDB, she plays a pivotal role in attracting top-tier talent and building high-performing teams. With a strong background in global talent acquisition, Priyanka brings deep insights into recruitment strategies, diversity hiring, and talent engagement. Her expertise in navigating the evolving hiring landscape has helped organizations scale efficiently while maintaining a people-first approach.
Priyanka Chavan
Talent Partner, MongoDB
Sasank Yedlapati
Manager Total Rewards, EPAM SystemsSasank Yedlapati is a seasoned HR professional specializing in Total Rewards, Compensation & Benefits, and Employee Engagement. As the Manager of Total Rewards at EPAM Systems, he has been instrumental in designing and implementing strategic reward programs that enhance employee motivation, retention, and overall workplace satisfaction. With a strong background in aligning compensation strategies with business objectives, Sasank plays a key role in fostering a high-performance culture. His expertise in HR analytics, performance management, and organizational development enables him to drive impactful HR initiatives that support both business growth and employee well-being.
Sasank Yedlapati
Manager Total Rewards, EPAM Systems
CYRIL OSTA
Associate Director - Talent Acquisition Leader for IBM ConsultingCyril Osta is a highly experienced business leader and client partner at IBM, with a strong background in strategic planning, key account management, and enterprise partnerships. With a career spanning over two decades, he has consistently delivered value by aligning business goals with innovative tech-driven solutions across global markets. Cyril’s expertise lies in building long-term client relationships, driving transformational strategies, and contributing to the growth of high-impact organizations. His ability to bridge business objectives with people strategies makes him a unique voice in the evolving HR and talent landscape.
CYRIL OSTA
Associate Director - TA Leader for IBM
Priyanka Roy
Head-Function Human Resources, Wipro LimitedWith 18+ years of experience in Human Resources, Priyanka has been instrumental in shaping HR strategies, talent management, and organizational development across multiple geographies. She has held key roles as an HR Business Partner (HRBP) and has driven impactful initiatives in leadership development, workforce transformation, and employee engagement. Priyanka’s expertise in HR strategy, talent acquisition, and culture transformation makes her a key influencer in the industry. Her ability to align HR practices with business goals has led to high-performing teams and a dynamic work culture at Wipro.
Priyanka Roy
Head-Function Human Resources, Wipro Limited
Abhishek Yadav
Director HR , South Asia, DuPontAbhishek Yadav is a seasoned HR leader with extensive experience in talent acquisition, employee engagement, and organizational development. As the HR Leader for DuPont South Asia, he has played a pivotal role in driving HR transformation and building high-performance teams. With a strong focus on leadership development and workforce strategy, Abhishek continues to shape innovative and people-centric workplaces.
Abhishek Yadav
Director HR , South Asia, DuPont
Mahitha K
Sr HR Manager, HoneywellMahitha K is a dynamic HR leader with a strong track record in strategic human resource management, business alignment, and leadership development. As the Site HR Lead and HR Manager at Honeywell, she plays a key role in shaping HR strategies that foster organizational growth and employee engagement. Recognized as an ICF-certified Coach and honored as one of BW’s 40 Under 40, Mahitha is known for her expertise in talent management, employee experience, and organizational development. Her proactive approach and commitment to building high-performing teams have made her a trusted HR partner in the industry.
Mahitha K
Sr HR Manager, Honeywell
Rahul Varma
Vice President - Human Resources at SynchronyRahul Varma is a seasoned HR professional with extensive experience in human resources management. Currently serving as the Assistant Vice President – Human Resources at Synchrony, he plays a pivotal role in shaping HR strategies that drive organizational growth and employee engagement. LinkedIn With a strong background in talent management and organizational development, Rahul has been instrumental in implementing HR initiatives that align with business objectives. His expertise in fostering inclusive workplace cultures and enhancing employee experience has significantly contributed to the success of the organizations he has been part of.
Rahul Varma
Vice President - Human Resources, Synchrony
Nitin Jain
Director – People Solutions, LocktonNitin Jain is a seasoned HR and business leader with deep expertise in employee benefits, people solutions, and strategic HR consulting. As Director at Lockton, he has successfully led P&L-driven verticals, delivering impactful solutions that align HR strategy with business goals. Known for his innovative approach, Nitin plays a key role in transforming workplace experiences through tailored people practices.
Nitin Jain
Director – People Solutions, Lockton
Subscribe Newsletter
@2025 Thought Leaders. All Rights Reserved.