MMR 2024 Provides Important Information on Improving Workforce Competencies

Mumbai, September 20, 2024: On September 19, 2024, The Retailers Association of India (RAI) successfully hosted the 18th edition of the Manning Modern Retail (MMR) 2024 HR Conclave. An excellent lineup of CEOs, CPOs/CHROs, academic experts, and thought leaders from the industry came together for this much awaited event to discuss the theme of “Evolve, Engage, and Elevate – Shaping the Future of Talent.”

In a time when companies must navigate the rapidly advancing fields of automation and technology, more attention is being paid to a more important investment: human potential. The ability to quickly upskill the workforce is what really sets one company apart from another, even as technology continues to transform industries. The main issue nowadays is not only implementing new technologies; rather, it’s how quickly companies can provide their employees the skills they need for the future.

The CEO of the Retailers Association of India (RAI), Kumar Rajagopalan, stated with reference to MMR 2024: “Our greatest asset remains our people in an era defined by rapid technological change.” Organizations that select the best candidates and provide ongoing training to current employees to stay abreast of emerging technologies will win the future. At Manning Modern Retail 2024, we’re dedicated to building a talent-thriving atmosphere and a forum for the exchange of ideas on lifelong learning. We create a workforce that is not only ready for the future, but actively influencing it by involving and advancing our colleagues.

The key highlight of the conclave was the Keynote address delivered by C K Venkataraman, MD, Titan Company Ltd.

Speaking about defining HRs role in digital transformation of an organisation, C K Venkataraman, said, “HR’s role extends beyond simply implementing new technologies; it is pivotal in transforming the organizational culture and mindset. HR must champion a culture of continuous learning and agility, equipping employees with the skills needed to navigate future challenges. By aligning talent strategies with business goals and fostering an environment of innovation, HR becomes a crucial partner in steering the company toward sustainable growth and success in the digital age.”

Notable speakers at MMR 2024 included retail stalwarts such as Adhir Mane, CHRO- Corporate, Raymond Ltd; Arun Mathews, CHRO, Max Landmark Group; Asim Jagdale, CHRO, Arvind Fashions Ltd; Anjali Goel, Head HR, V-Mart Retail Ltd; Chitra D. Ram, CHRO, Yum Restaurants International; Deepali Bhardwaj, CHRO- Business Growth Partner, IHG Hotels & Resorts (InterContinental Hotels Group); Harsh Aparanji, CHRO, Landmark Group India; Nandini Mehta, CHRO, Metro Brands Ltd; Nirav Jagad, Chief People Officer, SUGAR Cosmetics; Parineeta Cecil Lakra, Country People & Culture Manager, IKEA India; Priya M Pillai, Head – People Function, Titan Company Ltd.; Robin Sharma, Head- HRBP, Croma; Rohith Kumar, Chief Human Resources Officer, Westlife Foodworld (McDonalds India West & South); Tanuja Tewari, Head HR, bigbasket; Varadharaju Janardhanan, Vice President Human Resources, Flipkart among many more.

Asim Jagdale – CHRO, Arvind Fashions Ltd., said, “We have the responsibility to develop and equip our teams for this rapidly changing and highly competitive business landscape. The business needs teams that are skilled to face the ambiguity and complexity relentlessly and deliver results that exceed standards consistently. Our employees look at the organization as a place where they will get the opportunity to learn, create and fulfil their aspirations. The organization has to meet the expectations of our employees who are eager to excel and grow.”

Adhir Mane – CHRO- Corporate, Raymond Ltd., said, “In today’s dynamic business environment, the most valuable investment an organization can make is in the development of its people. By cultivating a culture of continuous learning and personalized career development, we not only empower our employees but also set the stage for sustained growth and innovation. It’s about aligning individual aspirations with organizational goals to create a win-win proposition.”

Anjali Goel – Head HR, V-Mart Retail Ltd., said, “Employee growth is at the heart of organizational success. In an age where adaptability is crucial, it’s important that we create opportunities for our employees to learn, unlearn, and relearn. By fostering a supportive environment that values continuous development, we enable our teams to unlock their full potential, leading to increased engagement, productivity, and ultimately, positive business impact. We must create opportunities for our employees to continuously acquire new skills, refine existing knowledge and embrace evolving perspectives.”

The conclave concluded with the 8th edition of the Retail HR Awards, recognising Emerging Young Leader in HR, Employee Retention Champion: Leading Innovation (Small Team Category) and Employee Retention Champion: Leading Innovation (Large Team Category)

The Manning Modern Retail (MMR) HR Conclave has firmly established itself as the leading platform for tackling the most critical issues in retail HR. With its continued emphasis on driving forward-thinking discussions, MMR has become an indispensable gathering for retail HR professionals. It serves as a key venue for collaboration, exchanging insights, and developing strategies to foster sustainable growth in a dynamic industry landscape.