KSOM Hosts 16th National HR Conclave

KIIT School of Management (KSOM) hosted its 16th National HR Conclave on August 9, 2025, themed “Navigating the Hybrid Future: Agile, Adaptive, and Integrated Workplaces.” The conclave highlighted the strategies for building flexible, resilient, and human-centric organizations in a hybrid era. Dr. Achyuta Samanta, Founder, KIIT, KISS & KIMS graced the occasion and interacted with the corporate dignitaries.

Delivering the keynote address at the conclave, Mr. Sarthak Behuria, Chairman & Chairperson of the Board of Directors, Reliance BP Mobility Ltd. noted that the traditional 9-to-5 is giving way to a new era of work defined by agility, adaptability, and empathy. Drawing from his vast experience, he shared a few real-life instances that illustrated these values in action. His speech was deeply humane and personal, reflecting the importance of trust and connection in today’s workplace.

Prof. Saranjit Singh, Vice Chancellor, KIIT Deemed to be University, highlighted that the theme of hybrid workplaces and the hybrid future can be captured in three words: agile, adaptive, and integrated. Drawing parallels between industry and academia, he noted that education has also been disrupted by market changes, making agility and adaptability essential for institutions to thrive. He spoke about the growing influence of artificial intelligence and the need to adapt to its impact on education and work.

In his welcome address, Prof. Kumar Mohanty, Director, KSOM outlined the key parameters within the university that foster adaptability. He emphasized the strong industry-academia balance in the institution, which ensures that learning remains relevant and responsive to changing demands.

Earlier, Prof. Isa Mishra, Conclave Convener, extended a warm welcome to the dignitaries and greetings on behalf of Prof. Achyuta Samanta. Prof. Arvind Tripathy, Dean, MBA, KSOM, proposed the vote of thanks at the inaugural session.

The inaugural session was followed by a high-impact panel discussion on the theme “Data-Driven Insights for Continuous Hybrid Work Optimization.” Moderated by Mr. J. P. Singh, Vice President — HR, JSW Steel, the discussion featured Dr. Menka Singh Sindhu, Global Human Resource, Business Partner, Naehas & Zenarate; Ms. Nirmala Behera, Executive Dir — HR, RSB Transmission; Ms. Manvi Singh, Head — HR, Pidilite Industries Ltd.; Ms. Indu Rashmi, Head HR, ACER and J. P. Singh, VP- HR, JSW Steel — Moderator. The panel explored how organizations can balance flexibility, productivity, and human connection in hybrid setups, highlighting the importance of skills, adaptability, and the right use of AI and digital tools.

Post-lunch, a series of parallel Synergistics sessions were held to provide focused interaction between students and industry professionals. These workshops were designed to explore pressing sub-themes shaping the future of HR in hybrid environments headed by top HR professionals. The workshops were on topics like Generative AI in Hybrid Work, Outcome-Based Performance Metrics, Impact of Gen Z and Digital Natives on Hybrid Expectations and Future Immersive Workspaces.

These sessions offered KSOM students, especially those specializing in HR, a unique opportunity to interact with professionals and gain industry-level exposure. The HR Conclave successfully bridged the gap between theory and practice. It offered a vibrant platform where students, faculty, and professionals explored how HR can become a strategic enabler in the ever-evolving world of hybrid work.