Name: Bhupender Mehta

Title: Chief Human Resource Officer

Organisation: iEnergizer BPO

Bhupender Mehta, a visionary leader and accomplished professional in the realm of human resources, has been instrumental in steering iEnergizer, a prominent business process outsourcing company, towards organizational excellence and sustainable growth. With a profound understanding of the dynamics that govern modern businesses and an unyielding commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and inclusivity, Bhupender has emerged as a beacon of transformation and progress in the corporate world.

As the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) at iEnergizer, Bhupender Mehta has played a pivotal role in reshaping the organizational landscape. Armed with an extensive background in HR strategies, talent management, employee engagement, and organizational development, he has been the driving force behind iEnergizer's journey towards becoming a globally recognized player in the industry.

Bhupender's approach to human resources is deeply rooted in the belief that employees are the most valuable asset of any organization. He places immense emphasis on fostering a work environment that nurtures talent, creativity, and professional growth. Under his guidance, iEnergizer has developed and implemented innovative HR policies and practices that resonate with the evolving needs and expectations of the workforce.

A hallmark of Bhupender's leadership is his dedication to cultivating a culture of continuous learning and development. He has championed initiatives that provide employees with opportunities for upskilling, cross-functional exposure, and leadership training. By doing so, Bhupender has not only empowered individuals within the organization but has also elevated the collective capabilities of iEnergizer, thus fueling its growth trajectory.

Beyond the confines of iEnergizer, Bhupender Mehta has actively contributed to industry forums, sharing his knowledge and insights with fellow professionals. He recognizes the importance of collaboration and knowledge exchange in fostering a thriving business ecosystem. His involvement in various industry associations and events underscores his commitment to shaping the future of the HR landscape on a broader scale.

In addition to his professional pursuits, Bhupender places a strong emphasis on social responsibility and community engagement. He believes in giving back to society and actively participates in initiatives that contribute to the welfare and upliftment of underserved communities. This showcases his holistic approach to leadership, where success is not only measured in business terms but also in the positive impact an organization can have on society.

With a career spanning several decades, Bhupender Mehta continues to inspire and lead by example, leaving an indelible mark on the organizations he has been associated with and the industry at large. His passion for people, transformative vision, and dedication to fostering a progressive work culture make him an exemplary CHRO, an advocate for innovation, and a true asset to iEnergizer. Under his stewardship, iEnergizer is poised for a future brimming with opportunities and success, solidifying its position as a global industry leader.

Thank you to the 2,000 leaders who’ve generously done the 7 Questions on Leadership!

I hope Bhupender's answers will encourage you in your leadership journey. Enjoy!

Cheers,

Jonno White

1. What have you found most challenging as a leader?

As the Chief Human Resources Officer at iEnergizer, I have found that one of the most challenging aspects of being a leader is effectively managing and fostering a positive organizational culture amidst rapid growth and change. Maintaining a cohesive culture that aligns with the company's values and goals while accommodating the diverse needs and perspectives of a rapidly expanding workforce can be complex.

Additionally, navigating the ever-evolving landscape of human resources and ensuring compliance with laws, regulations, and best practices presents continuous challenges. Balancing the needs of the organization with the rights and expectations of employees is a delicate task that requires ongoing vigilance and adaptability.

Furthermore, empowering and motivating teams to perform at their best while also providing opportunities for their growth and development is a perpetual challenge. Striking the right balance between driving performance and fostering an environment that encourages innovation and collaboration is a delicate equilibrium that requires constant attention and adjustments.

2. How did you become a leader? Can you please briefly tell the story?

My journey to becoming, who I am today, was a result of a blend of experiences, continuous learning, and the willingness to take on challenges.

Early in my career, I recognized the importance of cultivating strong interpersonal skills and a deep understanding of human behavior in the workplace. These qualities drove my passion to pursue a career in human resources. I began by gaining foundational knowledge in HR through formal education and entry-level roles, allowing me to comprehend the intricate dynamics of organizational culture, employee engagement, and talent management.

As I progressed in my career, I actively sought out opportunities for growth and learning. I engaged in mentorship programs, attended leadership workshops, and participated in relevant industry seminars to expand my knowledge base and refine my leadership abilities. Demonstrating a commitment to personal and professional growth was crucial in my journey.

Through consistent hard work, dedication, and delivering results in various HR leadership roles, I earned the trust and confidence of my colleagues and superiors. These roles allowed me to develop my strategic thinking, decision-making capabilities, and leadership style. Over time, I was entrusted with higher levels of responsibility, ultimately leading to my current position as the Chief Human Resources Officer at iEnergizer.

Being a leader is an ongoing process, and I remain dedicated to enhancing my leadership skills through continuous learning, collaboration, and leveraging the collective intelligence within our organization.

3. How do you structure your work days from waking up to going to sleep?

Balancing the demands of my role as Chief Human Resources Officer at iEnergizer with being a father of three wonderful kids is a rewarding yet challenging endeavor. Structuring my workdays in a way that allows me to fulfill my professional responsibilities while being present for my family is of utmost importance to me.

Here's a glimpse into a typical day:

Morning Routine:

I start my day early, usually around 5:30 AM. This quiet time allows me to plan my day, review priorities, and catch up on emails or industry news.

After some focused work, I engage in physical exercise or mindfulness activities to boost my energy levels and mental clarity for the day ahead.

Family Time:

I prioritize having breakfast with my family and spending some quality time with my kids before they head off to school.

This time is invaluable, allowing us to connect and share our thoughts and plans for the day.

Workday at iEnergizer:

Once I'm at the office or engaged in remote work, I dive into meetings, strategic planning, and addressing urgent matters.

Collaboration with my team and other departments is a significant part of my day, ensuring alignment and progress towards our organizational goals.

Throughout the day, I make it a point to stay accessible to my team for guidance, support, and to address any concerns.

Lunch Break:

I try to take a brief break for lunch, which serves as a recharge moment. Sometimes, this includes catching up on industry publications or engaging in casual conversations with colleagues.

Afternoon:

The afternoons are typically dedicated to more focused work, strategy sessions, and addressing any critical HR initiatives.

I also allocate time for personal development, which might involve reading, learning, or participating in leadership forums.

Family Evening:

In the early evening, I prioritize being home to spend time with my kids, assisting them with their schoolwork, engaging in family activities, or simply enjoying dinner together.

Bedtime routines involve reading stories, helping with homework, and ensuring a peaceful transition to bedtime.

Personal Time and Reflection:

As the day winds down, I allocate some time for personal reflection, planning for the next day, and winding down activities that help me relax.

Balancing work and family life is an ongoing journey, and flexibility and adaptability are key in ensuring that both aspects of my life receive the attention they deserve.

4. What's a recent leadership lesson you've learned for the first time or been reminded of?

Leadership lesson that has been reaffirmed for me is the power of effective communication and active listening. In a dynamic and evolving work environment, clear and transparent communication is paramount to organizational success and employee engagement.

I was reminded of this during a critical project where miscommunication led to confusion among team members and delays in deliverables. It highlighted the need to reinforce the importance of regular, open, and precise communication within our teams.

In response, we implemented strategies to enhance communication channels, encourage a culture of open dialogue, and actively listen to the concerns and ideas of our team members. Additionally, we emphasized the significance of providing constructive feedback and ensuring that all team members felt heard and valued.

This experience reinforced my belief that a leader's ability to communicate effectively, listen actively, and facilitate clear understanding among team members directly impacts our collective ability to achieve goals and maintain a cohesive and productive work environment.

5. What's one book that has had a profound impact on your leadership so far? Can you please briefly tell the story of how that book impacted your leadership?

The book that has significantly impacted my approach to leadership is "Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us" by Daniel H. Pink. This book delves into the science of motivation and provides compelling insights into what drives individuals to excel in their work.

The book introduced me to the concept of autonomy, mastery, and purpose as fundamental drivers of motivation. Understanding that employees are motivated when they have the autonomy to make decisions, the opportunity to master their skills, and a clear sense of purpose in their work profoundly influenced my leadership style.

Incorporating these principles into my leadership approach, I began to empower and trust my team members to take ownership of their tasks and projects. I encouraged continuous learning and skill development, enabling them to achieve mastery in their respective domains. Additionally, I worked to align their roles with a sense of purpose, emphasizing how their contributions contributed to the larger organizational goals and societal impact.

This shift in perspective led to improved employee engagement, a more innovative and driven team, and a stronger sense of purpose and alignment with our organizational mission. The concepts from "Drive" have become foundational principles in how I lead and motivate my team at iEnergizer.

6. If you could only give one piece of advice to a young leader, what would you say to them?

If I could impart one crucial piece of advice to a young leader, it would be this: Never underestimate the power of continuous learning and adaptability.

In today's fast-paced, ever-changing business landscape, the ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn is paramount. Embrace a mindset of lifelong learning and seek out opportunities to expand your knowledge, skills, and perspectives. Stay curious and open to new ideas and experiences, both within and outside your field of expertise.

Adaptability is equally important. Be prepared to pivot, evolve, and navigate through unexpected challenges. Flexibility and the ability to adjust your strategies and approaches in response to changing circumstances will set you apart as an effective leader.

Remember, growth and success stem from a willingness to learn from every experience and adapt to the evolving demands of your role and industry. Embrace learning as a continuous journey, and you'll not only enhance your leadership capabilities but also inspire those around you.

7. What is one meaningful story that comes to mind from your time as a leader, so far?

One meaningful story that stands out from my time involves a team member who was initially struggling in their role. This individual was talented and enthusiastic, but they seemed to lack confidence in their abilities.

Instead of reprimanding or critiquing them, I chose to have a one-on-one conversation. I encouraged them to share their thoughts and concerns openly. Through this conversation, I discovered that they had a fear of failure and were hesitant to voice their ideas.

Understanding the underlying issue, I reassured them that making mistakes was a natural part of the learning process. I encouraged them to take risks, voice their opinions, and assured them that the team and I were there to support and learn from any challenges.

Over time, this team member began to gain confidence. They started actively participating in team discussions, sharing their ideas, and taking on more responsibilities. Witnessing this transformation and the positive impact of providing guidance and support was truly rewarding.

This experience reinforced the importance of understanding and empathizing with team members, creating a safe environment for open communication, and encouraging personal and professional growth. It's a reminder that as leaders, our role extends beyond tasks and targets; it's about empowering and uplifting our team members to reach their fullest potential.