Human experiences top focus in HR, marketing: Tech Mahindra's Harshvendra Soin
The global chief people officer and marketing chief decodes his dual role and why it works
Harshvendra Soin, global chief people officer and head of marketing at Tech MahindraÂ
It’s rare to see a marketing chief leading the human resource department of a multinational company. Tech Mahindra’s global chief people officer and head of marketing, Harshvendra Soin is changing the dynamics of handling people and brand purpose, at the same time. In an exclusive chat with Storyboard18, Soin discusses what it takes to make a good employer brand, technology’s role in disrupting customer service, metaverse, and more.
Q. What is it like managing and leading two critical functions like HR and marketing in a technology company? What are the HR lessons that you apply in your marketing strategies?
HR and marketing do have interesting synergies. Let’s look at human experiences. It’s a top priority of both portfolios. It’s important how we talk and treat our customers, employees, their families, and communities at large. The insights we get from these sets of people matter the most. You asked me what HR lessons I pick up to drive marketing at TechM. We believe while technology is an enabler, the moments of truth always remain human. Businesses with ESG (environmental, social and governance) principles built into their strategy, not only drive profitable growth but also attract talent. That’s at the core of the company. We are making our workforce future-ready, for which reskilling is imperative. Our upskilling programs are powered by an artificial intelligence-based platform that revolves around topics like 5G, blockchain, IoT, cybersecurity; all of which are also at the center of our marketing functionality.
What does it take to make a good employer brand?
I would like to quote Maya Angelou here. She once said, “people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."
