In this article, Rupesh Chandrasekharan, AVP – Head, Talent Acquisition, Bahwan CyberTek, talks about the firm’s two-pronged approach, which involves cultivating a learning culture and making diversity a core focus to thrive in the evolving workplace of the future.
The seismic shifts in the global workplace over recent years have not only transformed how we work but also redefined the essence of talent management and organisational culture. The advent of remote and hybrid work models, catalysed by the pandemic, has ushered in an era where employee experience is not just a peripheral concern but a central business priority. This paradigm shift is not a temporary anomaly but a fundamental realignment of the workplace ecosystem.
At Bahwan CyberTek (BCT), a vanguard in digital transformation services, we have witnessed and adapted to these tectonic shifts. Our response to these changes has been multi-dimensional, addressing the twin imperatives of acquiring technically proficient talent and fostering an environment of inclusive growth.
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Cultivating a learning culture: A strategic imperative
Our approach transcends traditional recruitment paradigms. We have embraced a ‘Hire, Train & Deploy’ model, focusing on candidates with a foundational skill set (75% to 80% skill match) and a robust appetite for learning. This model is a strategic pivot from the conventional hire-for-skills approach to a more dynamic hire-for-potential philosophy. Post-training, these candidates become integral contributors to our projects, embodying a blend of freshly acquired skills and innate potential. This approach not only addresses the immediate skill gap but also equips our workforce for future challenges, making continuous learning and adaptability our organisational bedrock.
Inclusive hiring: More than a checkbox
Diversity and inclusion are not just HR mandates at BCT; they are the lifeblood of our organisational ethos. We have set ambitious targets for gender diversity, aiming for at least 35% female hires, increasing to 40% in the near future. This commitment is deeply ingrained in our Key Responsible Areas, ensuring that diversity is not an afterthought but a key performance indicator.
Our pioneering ‘Re-launch’ initiative exemplifies our dedication to inclusivity. This programme focuses on reintegrating women returning from career breaks, thereby contributing not just to our talent pool but also to broader societal empowerment. Approximately 4% of our hires stem from this initiative, a testament to its effectiveness. Furthermore, our efforts extend to hiring differently abled individuals, which is in line with our belief in a workplace where diversity is celebrated and leveraged for collective growth and innovation.
This model is a strategic pivot from the conventional hire-for-skills approach to a more dynamic hire-for-potential philosophy. Post-training, these candidates become integral contributors to our projects, embodying a blend of freshly acquired skills and innate potential.
The workplace of the future is inclusive
Our strategies at BCT are not mere responses to market trends; they are proactive steps towards shaping a future workplace that is inclusive, dynamic, and continuously evolving. By fostering a culture that values continuous learning and diversity, we are not just adapting to the present; we are actively shaping the future. Our commitment to these principles positions us not just as participants in the digital transformation journey but as pioneers charting new courses in talent acquisition and workplace culture.
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As we forge ahead, our conviction in these strategies strengthens. We believe that our approach to talent management and organisational culture will not only help us navigate the present challenges but also set new benchmarks in the industry. In a world where change is the only constant, our commitment to learning and inclusivity is our compass, guiding us towards a future that is as dynamic as it is diverse.
About the author: Rupesh Chandrasekharan is a talent acquisition professional who began his career at a staff augmentation company, later established his own firm, and subsequently transitioned to roles in IT services, as well as products companies. Throughout his diverse career, he has successfully addressed numerous critical hiring needs. Currently, he serves as the Head of Recruitment at Bahwan CyberTek.