Media Release
Bengaluru, Nov 25: The HR Conclave at Alliance University, organized by the office of career advancement and networking, was an insightful event focused on the theme “AI, data analytics – the progression and future of HR.” Beginning with the inauguration, the conclave featured a series of engaging keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive sessions addressing the evolving landscape of HR practices in the age of AI and data analytics.
Ray Titus, Dean of Alliance Business School, opened the series of keynote addresses with a detailed exploration of AI’s transformative impact on HR. He emphasized AI's potential to enhance decision-making, efficiency, and innovation, particularly highlighting its dual role in supporting and disrupting the start-up ecosystem. He delved into the revolutionary applications of generative AI and addressed the ethical dilemmas associated with its adoption, including issues like data privacy and workforce displacement.
Abhay G Chebbi, the pro vice chancellor, followed with a keynote on the growing significance of AI in modern organizations. He emphasized the challenges HR professionals face when integrating AI tools into human-centric systems, discussing the pressing need for organizations to prioritize upskilling and reskilling initiatives. These efforts, he argued, are essential to prepare employees for the demands of a rapidly digitizing workplace.
The third keynote speaker, Anish Philip, Chief People Officer of Movate Technologies, highlighted the strategic importance of investing in learning and development (L&D) as a long-term organizational asset. He spoke passionately about the critical need for upskilling to address the dynamic requirements of emerging industries. Anish also touched on the advent of new job roles, such as prompt engineers, that are becoming indispensable in the AI-driven job market.
The event featured multiple panel discussions, starting with a session moderated by Dr Pratima Verma, professor and area chair of HRM at Alliance University. This panel explored navigating talent turbulence and leveraging AI to redefine workforce management. Panelists such as Amit Sachdev of Tata Insights and Quants, Amit Sharma from Gokaldas Exports, and Baskar Varadhan of Natural Remedies emphasized the role of upskilling and cross-skilling in tackling workforce challenges. Amit Sachdev also introduced TATA IQ’s descriptive analytics e-learning course, underscoring the importance of continuous professional development.
Mental wellbeing and HR
The discussion on mental health, moderated by Uma Sreedhar, explored the psychological challenges faced by employees, especially in the digital era. The rise of hybrid and remote working models has heightened the need for HR to implement mental wellness programs. Companies are increasingly turning to AI to assist in monitoring employee wellness and providing personalized support.
Chella Pandian Pitchai, Global head of Diversity, equity & inclusion at Biocon Biologics, led an impactful session on HR’s role in fostering mental well-being. He discussed workplace challenges such as generational diversity, corporate responses to sexual harassment, and the importance of holistic mental wellness programs. His talk emphasized HR’s pivotal role in creating a safe and inclusive environment for employees.
The final panel, moderated by Sumit Premi, director of Talent Acquisition at Flipkart, focused on digital distribution and integration in the post-covid era. Panelists, including Amit Bansal from Schneider Electric and Praveen Kumar Voona of Airbus India, examined how digital disruptions have reshaped HR practices. Discussions also highlighted AI’s role in onboarding, recruitment, and promoting well-being while navigating the challenges of technology integration. The panel concluded with insights into innovative practices like recruiter hackathons, which encourage creative problem-solving in HR.
The conclave concluded with a closing speech by Dr B Priestley Shan, pro vice chancellor, and Surekha Shetty, registrar general of Alliance University. The event successfully underscored the transformative potential of AI and data analytics in shaping the future of HR, inspiring participants to embrace innovation and adaptability in their professional practices.