I am a lifelong learner, and my last formal tryst with academia was in 2020-21, when in the middle of the pandemic, I joined 8 other mid-to-late career HR professionals in a post-graduate diploma program, the first of its kind in the country, on the new labor laws.
Right after finishing my MLW, I began working at Arvind Mills, and parallelly also took up a LLB degree. I also began taking lectures as a visiting faculty at my alma mater - School of Social Sciences, Gujarat University. I also serve on the academic advisory committees of various institutions in and around the Ahmedabad area. I continue to interact with academia, whenever I am invited as a guest lecturer or a panelist.
BSc (Physics)
1986-1989
Saurashtra University, Rajkot
Masters in Labour Welfare
1989-1991
Gujarat University, Ahmedabad
LLB
1991-1993
Gujarat University, Ahmedabad
Leadership Development Program
Feb 2019
Indian School of Business (Certification), Hyderabad
Post Graduate Diploma in Managing Industrial Relations & Labour Laws
2020-2021
Gujarat University (India's first course on the new labor code)
Arvind Mills Limited
Aug 1991-Feb 1993, Mar 2004-Sep 2008
Throughout my tenure at the prestigious Arvind Mills Limited, spanning two impactful stints, I consistently demonstrated my dedication to driving positive change within the organization.
During my first stint, I took on the challenge of transforming the uniform distribution process for over 9,000 workers. Recognizing the inefficiency of the existing manual system, I initiated the transition to computerization, streamlining the distribution process and benefiting the Purchase and HR/Welfare departments. This accomplishment marked the company's first successful attempt to embrace electronic formats.
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During my second tenure, I tackled two critical objectives. Firstly, I focused on increasing the production capacity of garment manufacturing to bridge the demand-supply gap. Playing a lead role, I set up two new plants and provided timely skilled and trained manpower, ensuring seamless dispatch of garments. Our efforts were met with resounding success, leading to a significant increase in production capacity and elevating Arvind's brand value through superior quality products.
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Secondly, I worked on optimizing employee costs by rationalizing positions and merging activities. By engaging stakeholders and conducting thorough time & motion studies, we identified gaps in processes and conducted workshops to prepare employees for increased workloads. As a result, we achieved the merging of two activities into one, leading to increased monetary gain for employees and acquiring desired skills within the organization without additional manpower expenses.
Torrent Pharmaceuticals Limited
Mar 1993 - Aug 1997
At Torrent Pharma, I successfully tackled three critical challenges. First, I introduced an electronic punching system for attendance, providing real-time reports and transparency, a first for the Torrent group. Second, I established a subsidized cafeteria, boosting employee satisfaction and productivity. I also worked on long term satisfaction of workers, setting industry benchmarks for benefits which resulted in higher levels of employee satisfaction, and long term value for the company. These achievements set new standards within the Torrent Group and fostered a positive and engaged workforce.
DGP Windsor Limited
Sep 1997 - Sep 2000
During my tenure at DGP Windsor India Limited, an injection moulding machines manufacturer, I successfully tackled significant challenges, reducing risks by maneuvering out-of-court settlements of long standing labor issues, optimizing productivity with 5-S and Kaizen, and fostering a collaborative work culture through initiatives like "UDAAN" magazine and the Knowledge Building Exercise (KBE). These strategic actions delivered remarkable results, by institutionalizing processes and eliminating non-productive resource sinks.
Ferromatic Milacron, Inc.
Oct 2000 - Jul 2003
I spearheaded the creation of comprehensive training manuals and SOPs, resulting in streamlined and standardized training methods. This initiative significantly enhanced process orientation of the firm. The systems and procedures optimized operational efficiency, ensuring a well-structured and efficient training program within the organization.
Solaris Biochemicals Limited
Aug 2003 - Mar 2004
At Solaris Biochemicals Limited, I took on several important tasks with a focus on community engagement and maintaining harmonious industrial relations. By initiating open communication with local leaders, I sought to bridge the gap between the company and the local public, fostering understanding and trust. During a challenging gherao incident, my priority was to protect the company's assets, machinery, and personnel, ensuring their safety without any harm. Through these efforts, Solaris cultivated positive relationships with neighboring communities, encouraging cooperation and goodwill. The improved communication also led to better manpower availability and a peaceful work environment, contributing to the overall success of the company.
Torrent Power Limited
Sep 2008 - Mar 2016
At Torrent Power Limited, I played a pivotal role in driving organizational success through three key tasks. Establishing rapport with employees facilitated smooth and timely completion of Long Term Agreements (LTA). As a leader in implementing the Integrated Management System, I ensured the highest standards of ISO Quality, OHSAS, Environment, and Energy Management. Additionally, I contributed significantly to drafting HR policies and SOPs, fostering an engaged workforce through annual functions, festival celebrations, and sports events. I helped drive positive change, with successful LTAs, promoting a common platform, improved brand value, and increased employee bonding and commitment.
Astral Limited
Jun 2016 - Present
At my current position at Astral Limited, I have taken on two key challenges, strategically transforming the HR landscape to enhance organizational effectiveness.
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As a part of my role, I have successfully set up and strengthened the HR department, introducing structured processes, SOPs, and workflows for various functions, such as Time & Attendance to Hire to Retire - Employee Life Cycles. This systematic approach has led to continuous improvements, optimizing efficiency, and fostering a positive work environment.
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Additionally, I have played a role in integrating different businesses into the organization, providing essential HR support for functions like induction, orientation, retention, and evaluation. Emphasizing timely compliances and HR SAP/digitization, I have further streamlined operations, reinforcing Astral as a preferred employer and significantly increasing its brand value.
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As I continue to drive impactful changes at Astral Limited, I take pride in contributing to the company's growth and success through strategic HR interventions.
Guest Lecturer
I have been fortunate to be part of one of the oldest educational institutions, and my alma mater - School of Social Sciences, Gujarat University as a visiting faculty for six years.
I have also been associated with business schools and educational institutes like GLS Management Institute, St. Kabir Institute of Professional Studies, Oakbrook Business School as visiting faculty and have also delivered lectures and conducted workshops in HR and IR domain.
Most recently I was invited as one of panelist at LJ Management Institute on Discussion and Impact of New Labour Codes and at MICA, Ahmedabad for the HR Conclave 2022 on the hot button topic of Quite Quitting - The Next Phase of Great Resignation.
National HRD Network
​During my tenure as the Chapter Secretary for NHRD - Ahmedabad Chapter, my primary objective was to make a lasting impact on the HR fraternity in the region. Through focused networking efforts, I successfully increased membership and organized informative evening learning sessions, garnering attention from HR professionals. To further elevate the chapter's presence, I initiated and executed large-scale events that brought together HR practitioners for meaningful engagement and knowledge sharing. My dedicated service over six years also played a crucial role in supporting two Chapter Presidents in their endeavors. As a result of these strategic actions, the NHRD - Ahmedabad Chapter flourished, gaining significant visibility and becoming a valuable platform for HR professionals, contributing to their growth and success in the field.