The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) recently organised the SIAM Automotive HR Conclave titled "Shifting Gears: HR Strategies for a Disruptive Automotive Landscape."
The event focused on key trends affecting HR practices in the automotive sector and discussed strategies to support industry growth in alignment with India's vision for Viksit Bharat by 2047.
The conclave saw participation from government officials, CHROs from the automotive industry, HR professionals, HR consultants, HR tech solution providers, academia, and other stakeholders.
During the conclave, two reports were released: the 'SIAM Handbook for Service Advisers and Service Technicians,' developed in collaboration with SIAM and the Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC), and the 'Automotive Talent in Top Gear – Industry Report on HR Trends in the Automotive Sector,' created in partnership with SIAM and Deloitte India.
Charles JS Walter, Chairman of the SIAM Human Capital Group and AVP - Human Resources at Hyundai Motor India Ltd., emphasised the relevance of the conclave's theme in light of disruptions to traditional practices. He noted the industry's adaptation to these changes.
Vinod Aggarwal, Immediate Past President of SIAM and Managing Director & CEO of Volvo Eicher Commercial Vehicles Ltd., highlighted the automotive sector's significant role in India's economy, mentioning its contributions to the country's GST and overall turnover. He emphasised the importance of human capital in driving growth and innovation.
The conclave included sessions on topics such as "Fueling Innovation – Building Talent Capability in the Automotive Industry," "Belonging in the Automotive Industry – Fostering a Culture of Diversity & Inclusion," and "Beyond the Wheel – Skilling Up for the Future of Automotive." These sessions addressed trends, the value of inclusivity, and the need for upskilling in the sector.
Panelists included industry leaders such as Raja Radhakrishnan (Ashok Leyland Ltd.), Sabyasachi Ray (Bajaj Auto Ltd.), Rohit Thakur (Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.), Salil Lal (Maruti Suzuki India Ltd.), R Anandakrishnan (TVS Motor Company Ltd.), Jyoti Singh (Hero MotoCorp Ltd.), Amrita Ganguly (Tata Motors Ltd), and others.