By Pooja Minocha
Human Resources (HR) has evolved into a more than an enabler function—it has evolved into a key strategic pillar that drives business growth, fosters innovation, and shapes organizational culture. With my experience spanning industries and geographies, I have witnessed firsthand the rapid transformation of HR, particularly in the retail sector. As we look ahead, the next five years will be defined by the ability to balance global HR strategies with local talent dynamics, leverage digital transformation, and position HR as a business enabler.
The Future of HR: Global Strategies, Local Impact
The increasing globalization of business brings unique challenges and opportunities for HR. While global strategies ensure consistency and alignment with the company’s overarching vision, local talent dynamics require a more nuanced approach. At Bata, we recognize that people are our greatest asset, and our HR strategy reflects this belief. We focus on tailoring talent development programs that resonate with diverse cultural and operational landscapes. Our approach combines structured global frameworks with localized execution, ensuring that we not only attract but also retain and nurture top talent across regions.
For instance, in India, retail is a highly dynamic industry, and workforce expectations are evolving rapidly. We have focused on building robust leadership pipelines through programs like Project Bharti, aimed at increasing diversity and empowering women store managers. Such initiatives are deeply aligned with our global commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion while being customized to meet the unique challenges of the Indian retail landscape.
HR as a Business Growth Enabler
A strong HR function directly impacts business growth. At Bata, we ensure that every HR initiative is closely aligned with corporate objectives, driving both employee engagement and business performance. Our HR strategy is built around three key pillars: talent development, performance-driven culture, and employee experience.
One of our key focus areas is creating an agile workforce that can adapt to changing business needs. We invest in upskilling employees, offering learning interventions tailored to retail operations and leadership development. By equipping employees with future-ready skills, we not only enhance individual growth but also strengthen business resilience.
Additionally, our focus on data-driven decision-making ensures that HR strategies are not just intuitive but backed by analytics. Employee engagement surveys, workforce analytics, and performance metrics help us refine policies, measure impact, and continuously enhance the employee value proposition.
Driving HR Innovation Through Digital Transformation
Technology has fundamentally reshaped HR, from hiring and onboarding to employee engagement and retention. At Bata, we have embraced HR tech innovations that enhance employee experience and drive productivity. One of our most impactful interventions has been the implementation of AI-powered recruitment tools, significantly improving hiring efficiency and candidate experience.
Moreover, digital learning platforms have revolutionized how we upskill our workforce, providing flexible, on-demand learning solutions. Our mobile-first HRMS ensures seamless access to HR services, reinforcing a culture of transparency and engagement.
As we step into the future, HR’s role will continue to evolve. By embracing digital transformation, fostering local talent, and aligning HR strategies with business objectives, we are not just shaping a better workplace but also driving sustainable business success. At Bata, we believe that when people grow, businesses thrive—and that’s the future we are building.
Pooja Minocha is CHRO at Bata India
