In this greytFM episode, Vandana Tilwani, CHRO, Havas India and Chief Inclusion Officer, Havas APAC, discusses how the role of managers has evolved from driving execution to becoming coaches, culture-builders, and change leaders. As hybrid work, AI, and rising employee expectations reshape organisations, managers are expected to do more than ever—often without enough support. Vandana shares where the biggest gaps exist, how HR can better enable managers, and what strong HR-manager alignment looks like in practice. The episode also explores the manager’s role in leading AI adoption, reducing overload, and building more sustainable, people-centric workplaces. Tune in for practical insights on how managers and HR can thrive together in a changing world of work.

In this greytFM episode, Vandana Tilwani, CHRO, Havas India and Chief Inclusion Officer, Havas APAC, discusses how the role of managers has evolved from driving execution to becoming coaches, culture-builders, and change leaders.As hybrid work, AI, and rising employee expectations reshape organisations, managers are expected to do more than ever—often without enough support. Vandana shares where the biggest gaps exist, how HR can better enable managers, and what strong HR-manager alignment looks like in practice.The episode also explores the manager’s role in leading AI adoption, reducing overload, and building more sustainable, people-centric workplaces.Tune in for practical insights on how managers and HR can thrive together in a changing world of work.

greytFM ‒ a podcast series by greytHR

Ep 058 - The Evolving Role of Managers: How Managers and HR Can Thrive Together in a Changing Workplace

AI is evolving from simple automation to intelligent agents that can plan, execute, and optimize work across workflows. As organizations begin adopting these systems, HR leaders must ensure they are implemented responsibly and effectively. In this episode of greytFM, Ashwini Kumar, CHRO, Electronica Finance Ltd, shares insights on how HR can bridge the gap between AI ambition and real adoption, build ethical guardrails, and ensure human judgement remains central as people and AI agents begin to work side by side. Tune in to explore how HR can lead the way in building a future-ready, AI-enabled workplace.

AI is evolving from simple automation to intelligent agents that can plan, execute, and optimize work across workflows. As organizations begin adopting these systems, HR leaders must ensure they are implemented responsibly and effectively.In this episode of greytFM, Ashwini Kumar, CHRO, Electronica Finance Ltd, shares insights on how HR can bridge the gap between AI ambition and real adoption, build ethical guardrails, and ensure human judgement remains central as people and AI agents begin to work side by side.Tune in to explore how HR can lead the way in building a future-ready, AI-enabled workplace.

Ep 057 - The Rise of AI Agents: What HR Must Get Right

In this greytFM episode, Sulbha Rai, Chief People Officer at RenewBuy, unpacks what it truly takes to build strong culture and a differentiated Employee Value Proposition in today’s evolving workplace.As organisations navigate post-pandemic shifts, hybrid models, rapid skill transformation, and AI-led change, culture is no longer a vague concept — it is a strategic lever and competitive advantage. Sulbha shares practical insights on moving beyond generic EVP statements to build authentic, experience-driven frameworks that employees genuinely believe in. While AI may act as an enabler in shaping systems and scale, people ultimately build culture — through trust, empathy, conversations, and everyday leadership behaviour. From closing the gap between policy and lived experience to measuring impact in meaningful ways, this episode explores how HR can lead culture-building efforts without losing the human core. Tune in for grounded, forward-looking insights on strengthening culture while keeping people at the centre of transformation.

In this greytFM episode, Sulbha Rai, Chief People Officer at RenewBuy, unpacks what it truly takes to build strong culture and a differentiated Employee Value Proposition in today’s evolving workplace.As organisations navigate post-pandemic shifts, hybrid models, rapid skill transformation, and AI-led change, culture is no longer a vague concept — it is a strategic lever and competitive advantage. Sulbha shares practical insights on moving beyond generic EVP statements to build authentic, experience-driven frameworks that employees genuinely believe in.While AI may act as an enabler in shaping systems and scale, people ultimately build culture — through trust, empathy, conversations, and everyday leadership behaviour. From closing the gap between policy and lived experience to measuring impact in meaningful ways, this episode explores how HR can lead culture-building efforts without losing the human core.Tune in for grounded, forward-looking insights on strengthening culture while keeping people at the centre of transformation.

Ep 056 - Building Strong Culture and EVP in Today's Workplace

In this greytFM episode, Kalappa KB, Chief People Officer, Chai Point, shares insights on the shift from traditional role-based structures to skills-first organizations. As work becomes more dynamic and project-driven, rigid job titles and org charts are giving way to agile, skills-based models. Kalappa explores how AI-powered talent marketplaces are matching skills to opportunities in real time, unlocking “trapped capacity,” and enabling smarter, more equitable upskilling. He also highlights the governance, data discipline, and leadership guardrails required as AI begins to influence talent decisions more deeply.Tune in for a sharp, forward-looking perspective on how HR can lead the move to a skills-driven future.

In this greytFM episode, Kalappa KB, Chief People Officer, Chai Point, shares insights on the shift from traditional role-based structures to skills-first organizations.As work becomes more dynamic and project-driven, rigid job titles and org charts are giving way to agile, skills-based models. Kalappa explores how AI-powered talent marketplaces are matching skills to opportunities in real time, unlocking “trapped capacity,” and enabling smarter, more equitable upskilling.He also highlights the governance, data discipline, and leadership guardrails required as AI begins to influence talent decisions more deeply.Tune in for a sharp, forward-looking perspective on how HR can lead the move to a skills-driven future.

Ep 055 - Leading the Move from Roles to Skills: How HR Can Leverage AI for Smarter Upskilling

In this greytFM episode, Saurabh Kale, Senior Consultant, shares insights on how the future of work in India is rapidly evolving. With over 18 years of experience, he reflects on the changing role of HR in 2025 and what lies ahead. The conversation focuses on three key shifts shaping workplaces today - hybrid and remote work, the growing impact of AI on roles and productivity, and the urgent need for continuous skilling and reskilling. Saurabh highlights what HR leaders must prioritise to stay relevant and future-ready. Tune in for a concise, forward-looking discussion on navigating India’s changing work landscape with confidence.

In this greytFM episode, Saurabh Kale, Senior Consultant, shares insights on how the future of work in India is rapidly evolving. With over 18 years of experience, he reflects on the changing role of HR in 2025 and what lies ahead.The conversation focuses on three key shifts shaping workplaces today - hybrid and remote work, the growing impact of AI on roles and productivity, and the urgent need for continuous skilling and reskilling. Saurabh highlights what HR leaders must prioritise to stay relevant and future-ready.Tune in for a concise, forward-looking discussion on navigating India’s changing work landscape with confidence.

Ep 054 - The Future of Work in India: Embracing AI, Hybrid Work and Skilling

In this greytFM episode, Sumia, Chief Human Capital and Operations Officer at Hana Bank Indonesia, shares her perspectives on how HR is leading Indonesia’s workforce transformation amid rapid digitalisation and the shift towards a green economy. Drawing on her experience, she reflects on how the role of HR is evolving and what this means for organisations across the country. The conversation focuses on key shifts shaping Indonesia’s workplaces today—national priorities around digital transformation, the growing demand for green and digital skills, and large-scale upskilling and reskilling initiatives aligned with future economic needs. Sumia highlights what HR leaders must focus on to build resilient, future-ready workforces while navigating both opportunities and challenges. Tune in for a concise, forward-looking discussion on how HR is driving Indonesia’s journey towards a digital and sustainable economy.

In this greytFM episode, Sumia, Chief Human Capital and Operations Officer at Hana Bank Indonesia, shares her perspectives on how HR is leading Indonesia’s workforce transformation amid rapid digitalisation and the shift towards a green economy. Drawing on her experience, she reflects on how the role of HR is evolving and what this means for organisations across the country.The conversation focuses on key shifts shaping Indonesia’s workplaces today—national priorities around digital transformation, the growing demand for green and digital skills, and large-scale upskilling and reskilling initiatives aligned with future economic needs. Sumia highlights what HR leaders must focus on to build resilient, future-ready workforces while navigating both opportunities and challenges.Tune in for a concise, forward-looking discussion on how HR is driving Indonesia’s journey towards a digital and sustainable economy. 

Ep 053 - How HR is Leading Indonesia's Workforce Shift in a Digital and Green Economy

In this greytFM episode, Maher Ahmad Sabbagh, Human Resources Expert, Board Member and Advisor, takes us through how HR in the Middle East evolved in 2025 and what to expect in 2026.  As the region continues its rapid growth, Maher breaks down the key trends of the year, from AI-driven transformation to changing talent dynamics, and shares what surprised and challenged HR leaders. He also highlights the top priorities, skill areas and shifts HR teams must prepare for in 2026, along with a few bold predictions about the future of work in the Middle East. Tune in for a crisp, forward-looking conversation designed to help HR professionals stay ready for what’s coming next.

In this greytFM episode, Maher Ahmad Sabbagh, Human Resources Expert, Board Member and Advisor, takes us through how HR in the Middle East evolved in 2025 and what to expect in 2026. As the region continues its rapid growth, Maher breaks down the key trends of the year, from AI-driven transformation to changing talent dynamics, and shares what surprised and challenged HR leaders.He also highlights the top priorities, skill areas and shifts HR teams must prepare for in 2026, along with a few bold predictions about the future of work in the Middle East.Tune in for a crisp, forward-looking conversation designed to help HR professionals stay ready for what’s coming next.

Ep 052 - HR in the Middle East: Reflections on 2025 and Outlook on 2026

In this insightful greytFM episode, Hisham El Saied, Managing Partner, High Breed, Leadership Development Expert, ICF- ACC Coach & CIPD Trainer Facilitator, unpacks the complexities of designing a compelling Employee Experience (EX) for today's multicultural workforce.  As teams grow increasingly diverse, especially in regions like the Middle East—HR leaders face a new challenge: creating experiences that resonate across cultures and expectations. Hisham shares what truly defines employee experience and how leaders can shape inclusive, empowering workplaces where everyone thrives. Tune in for practical strategies on how to build people-first cultures that thrive on diversity—whether in hybrid, remote, or on-ground workplaces.

In this insightful greytFM episode, Hisham El Saied, Managing Partner, High Breed, Leadership Development Expert, ICF- ACC Coach & CIPD Trainer Facilitator, unpacks the complexities of designing a compelling Employee Experience (EX) for today's multicultural workforce. As teams grow increasingly diverse, especially in regions like the Middle East—HR leaders face a new challenge: creating experiences that resonate across cultures and expectations. Hisham shares what truly defines employee experience and how leaders can shape inclusive, empowering workplaces where everyone thrives.Tune in for practical strategies on how to build people-first cultures that thrive on diversity—whether in hybrid, remote, or on-ground workplaces.

Ep 051 - Redefining Employee Experience in a Multicultural Workforce

In this engaging greytFM episode, Pakzad Nussirabad, Chief Advisor & Consultant, PAN PAC, unpacks the pressing issue of employee retention in today’s workplaces. He explores how evolving employee expectations—from career growth and flexibility to culture and purpose—are reshaping the talent landscape. Pakzad highlights the strategies HR leaders can adopt to respond effectively, retain top performers, and build long-term loyalty. Tune in to gain practical insights into how HR can tackle the retention crisis and create workplaces where people truly want to stay and thrive.

In this engaging greytFM episode, Pakzad Nussirabad, Chief Advisor & Consultant, PAN PAC, unpacks the pressing issue of employee retention in today’s workplaces.He explores how evolving employee expectations—from career growth and flexibility to culture and purpose—are reshaping the talent landscape. Pakzad highlights the strategies HR leaders can adopt to respond effectively, retain top performers, and build long-term loyalty.Tune in to gain practical insights into how HR can tackle the retention crisis and create workplaces where people truly want to stay and thrive.

Ep 050 - The Great Retention Challenge

In this insightful greytFM episode, Ghada Salah, CHRO at Al Batha Engineering (Geco M&E), explores how HR leadership in the Middle East is rapidly transforming from an operational focus to a truly strategic role. Ghada sheds light on how CHROs are increasingly influencing boardroom decisions, shaping employer branding, driving ESG initiatives, and ensuring business continuity in dynamic markets. She also unpacks the unique challenges of navigating cross-border HR practices across the GCC, especially within large conglomerates and family-run businesses. Tune in to discover how CHROs are redefining leadership in the region and positioning HR as a key driver of organizational growth and resilience.

In this insightful greytFM episode, Ghada Salah, CHRO at Al Batha Engineering (Geco M&E), explores how HR leadership in the Middle East is rapidly transforming from an operational focus to a truly strategic role.Ghada sheds light on how CHROs are increasingly influencing boardroom decisions, shaping employer branding, driving ESG initiatives, and ensuring business continuity in dynamic markets. She also unpacks the unique challenges of navigating cross-border HR practices across the GCC, especially within large conglomerates and family-run businesses.Tune in to discover how CHROs are redefining leadership in the region and positioning HR as a key driver of organizational growth and resilience.

Ep 049 - The Evolving Role of CHROs in the Middle East

In this engaging greytFM episode, Fatima Mirza, Head of HR EMEA at Evonik Gulf FZE, unpacks the rapid acceleration of digital transformation in HR across the Middle East. Fatima shares real-world perspectives on how enterprises in the region are leveraging AI in recruitment, payroll, and employee engagement—reshaping the way HR drives efficiency and experience. She discusses emerging adoption trends in markets like the UAE, and the growing focus on ethical AI practices and data privacy in HR decision-making. Tune in to discover what lies ahead for HR in the Middle East’s digital-first era, and how technology is redefining the future of work.

In this engaging greytFM episode, Fatima Mirza, Head of HR EMEA at Evonik Gulf FZE, unpacks the rapid acceleration of digital transformation in HR across the Middle East.Fatima shares real-world perspectives on how enterprises in the region are leveraging AI in recruitment, payroll, and employee engagement—reshaping the way HR drives efficiency and experience. She discusses emerging adoption trends in markets like the UAE, and the growing focus on ethical AI practices and data privacy in HR decision-making.Tune in to discover what lies ahead for HR in the Middle East’s digital-first era, and how technology is redefining the future of work.

Ep 048 - The Rise of AI and HR Tech in the Middle East: What's Next

In this insightful greytFM episode, Kunal Wadhwani, Former CHRO at Choithrams, delves into the evolving role of HR in building agility across organizations in the Middle East. Kunal shares expert insights on what agility truly means in an HR context and why it’s critical for navigating complexities such as nationalization goals, while simultaneously fostering diverse, inclusive, and high-performing teams. The conversation explores how AI and automation are empowering HR leaders with real-time insights and flexible workforce solutions. Kunal also emphasizes the importance of building agile learning ecosystems that keep talent future-ready, and how HR can shape leaders who thrive amid uncertainty. Tune in for a forward-thinking discussion on how HR can become a catalyst for adaptability, innovation, and sustainable growth in the Middle East’s unique business landscape.

In this insightful greytFM episode, Kunal Wadhwani, Former CHRO at Choithrams, delves into the evolving role of HR in building agility across organizations in the Middle East.Kunal shares expert insights on what agility truly means in an HR context and why it’s critical for navigating complexities such as nationalization goals, while simultaneously fostering diverse, inclusive, and high-performing teams.The conversation explores how AI and automation are empowering HR leaders with real-time insights and flexible workforce solutions. Kunal also emphasizes the importance of building agile learning ecosystems that keep talent future-ready, and how HR can shape leaders who thrive amid uncertainty.Tune in for a forward-thinking discussion on how HR can become a catalyst for adaptability, innovation, and sustainable growth in the Middle East’s unique business landscape.

Ep 047 - Building Agile HR Strategies for Middle East’s Dynamic Workforce

In this inspiring greytFM episode, Joanne Lockwood, Inclusive Culture Expert, shares powerful perspectives and actionable strategies on how organizations can move Beyond the Checklist when it comes to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). While DEIB often features prominently on corporate agendas, the conversation in this episode shifts from checkboxes to personalization—exploring how tailored strategies can create meaningful, lasting change in the workplace. Joanne discusses why a one-size-fits-all approach falls short, and how HR and business leaders can foster environments where every individual feels truly seen, heard, and valued. She highlights the critical role of leadership, the importance of moving away from vanity metrics, and how to measure DEIB progress in a way that reflects real impact. Tune in for a rich dialogue that goes beyond the surface and empowers HR professionals to lead DEIB efforts with purpose and authenticity. Don’t miss this episode—it’s a must-listen for anyone committed to building truly inclusive workplaces.

In this inspiring greytFM episode, Joanne Lockwood, Inclusive Culture Expert, shares powerful perspectives and actionable strategies on how organizations can move Beyond the Checklist when it comes to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB).While DEIB often features prominently on corporate agendas, the conversation in this episode shifts from checkboxes to personalization—exploring how tailored strategies can create meaningful, lasting change in the workplace.Joanne discusses why a one-size-fits-all approach falls short, and how HR and business leaders can foster environments where every individual feels truly seen, heard, and valued. She highlights the critical role of leadership, the importance of moving away from vanity metrics, and how to measure DEIB progress in a way that reflects real impact.Tune in for a rich dialogue that goes beyond the surface and empowers HR professionals to lead DEIB efforts with purpose and authenticity.Don’t miss this episode—it’s a must-listen for anyone committed to building truly inclusive workplaces.

Ep 046 - Beyond the Checklist: Personalizing DEIB Strategies for Real Impact

In this thought-provoking podcast episode, Pranam S Karpur, Lead – AI Value Transformation at Genpact, delves into the ethical dimensions of AI adoption in HR. While much has been said about the transformative power of AI in enhancing HR functions, this conversation turns the spotlight on the importance of establishing strong guardrails to ensure responsible use. Pranam unpacks the key ethical concerns that arise when AI is integrated into people processes—ranging from bias in decision-making to transparency in communication. He also discusses the evolving collaboration between HR and ethics or compliance teams, and how this partnership is becoming increasingly vital in navigating today’s complex tech landscape. As AI continues to shape the future of work, Pranam shares valuable insights on what emerging HR professionals should be mindful of while creating a robust ethical framework. This episode offers timely guidance on how HR can lead the charge in building trust, fairness, and accountability in an AI-enabled workplace. Don’t miss this compelling conversation—it’s an essential listen for HR leaders and practitioners committed to using AI ethically and effectively.

In this thought-provoking podcast episode, Pranam S Karpur, Lead – AI Value Transformation at Genpact, delves into the ethical dimensions of AI adoption in HR. While much has been said about the transformative power of AI in enhancing HR functions, this conversation turns the spotlight on the importance of establishing strong guardrails to ensure responsible use.Pranam unpacks the key ethical concerns that arise when AI is integrated into people processes—ranging from bias in decision-making to transparency in communication. He also discusses the evolving collaboration between HR and ethics or compliance teams, and how this partnership is becoming increasingly vital in navigating today’s complex tech landscape.As AI continues to shape the future of work, Pranam shares valuable insights on what emerging HR professionals should be mindful of while creating a robust ethical framework. This episode offers timely guidance on how HR can lead the charge in building trust, fairness, and accountability in an AI-enabled workplace.Don’t miss this compelling conversation—it’s an essential listen for HR leaders and practitioners committed to using AI ethically and effectively.

Ep 045 - Ethical Use of AI in HR

Tune in to this insightful podcast as Aysha Sulaiman, Director of Human Resources and Development at Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), unpacks the critical role HR plays after performance reviews conclude. In this episode, Aysha dives deep into mastering appraisal conversations—focusing on how HR can bring compassion, clarity, and purpose to the often-difficult post-appraisal phase. With promotions and raises no longer guaranteed, how can HR navigate tough conversations while maintaining trust and morale? Aysha shares practical strategies on communicating outcomes with empathy and encouraging growth, even after a challenging review cycle. Don’t miss this candid and compelling conversation—it’s a must-listen for HR professionals looking to elevate employee experience and resilience in today’s evolving workplace.

Tune in to this insightful podcast as Aysha Sulaiman, Director of Human Resources and Development at Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), unpacks the critical role HR plays after performance reviews conclude. In this episode, Aysha dives deep into mastering appraisal conversations—focusing on how HR can bring compassion, clarity, and purpose to the often-difficult post-appraisal phase.With promotions and raises no longer guaranteed, how can HR navigate tough conversations while maintaining trust and morale? Aysha shares practical strategies on communicating outcomes with empathy and encouraging growth, even after a challenging review cycle.Don’t miss this candid and compelling conversation—it’s a must-listen for HR professionals looking to elevate employee experience and resilience in today’s evolving workplace.

Ep 044 - Mastering Appraisal Conversations: HR’s Role in Compassion, Communication and Employee Growth

About greytFM - a podcast series by greytHR: The greytFM Podcast series by greytHR offers an engaging and insightful journey through the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of HR and workplace management. Each episode brings together expert guests, thought leaders, and seasoned practitioners who share their experiences, strategies, and fresh perspectives on a variety of key HR topics. From fostering innovation and inclusivity, navigating complex regulatory frameworks, and reskilling for the future to leveraging cutting-edge technology, greytFM dives deep into pressing challenges and the emerging trends that shape HR professionals' lives.Designed to both inform and inspire, the series empowers listeners with actionable insights and practical advice, making it a must-listen for those eager to drive meaningful change and stay ahead in the fast-paced world of HR. About greytHR (<a href="https://www.greythr.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.greythr.com/</a>): greytHR is a Full-Suite HRMS, with THE most advanced People Operations and Payroll products for businesses in India, the Middle East, and SouthEast Asia. greytHR is a full-suite HRMS platform to expedite complex, recurring, and critical HR and payroll functions in a compliant and secure way. greytHR offers over 50 HR and payroll tools, providing 'Hire-to-Retire' solutions for People Operations. The platform includes advanced modules for recruiting, onboarding, engaging, paying, appraising, retaining, and retiring employees—all within a single platform. No surprise that greytHR is trusted by CFOs and loved by CHROs. Designed to sustain large enterprises and adaptable for small and medium businesses, greytHR serves organizations ranging from 5 to 500,000 employees. The platform is configurable for various industries, including manufacturing, SaaS, healthcare, banking, healthcare, hospitality, education, and retail. Today, greytHR is trusted by 27,000+ organizations and 2.5 million users across 25+ countries, making it a leading HRMS in India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.

About greytFM - a podcast series by greytHR: The greytFM Podcast series by greytHR offers an engaging and insightful journey through the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of HR and workplace management. Each episode brings together expert guests, thought leaders, and seasoned practitioners who share their experiences, strategies, and fresh perspectives on a variety of key HR topics.From fostering innovation and inclusivity, navigating complex regulatory frameworks, and reskilling for the future to leveraging cutting-edge technology, greytFM dives deep into pressing challenges and the emerging trends that shape HR professionals' lives.Designed to both inform and inspire, the series empowers listeners with actionable insights and practical advice, making it a must-listen for those eager to drive meaningful change and stay ahead in the fast-paced world of HR.About greytHR (https://www.greythr.com/): greytHR is a Full-Suite HRMS, with THE most advanced People Operations and Payroll products for businesses in India, the Middle East, and SouthEast Asia. greytHR is a full-suite HRMS platform to expedite complex, recurring, and critical HR and payroll functions in a compliant and secure way. greytHR offers over 50 HR and payroll tools, providing 'Hire-to-Retire' solutions for People Operations. The platform includes advanced modules for recruiting, onboarding, engaging, paying, appraising, retaining, and retiring employees—all within a single platform. No surprise that greytHR is trusted by CFOs and loved by CHROs. Designed to sustain large enterprises and adaptable for small and medium businesses, greytHR serves organizations ranging from 5 to 500,000 employees. The platform is configurable for various industries, including manufacturing, SaaS, healthcare, banking, healthcare, hospitality, education, and retail. Today, greytHR is trusted by 27,000+ organizations and 2.5 million users across 25+ countries, making it a leading HRMS in India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.

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greytFM ‒ a podcast series by greytHR

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