HR Learning Conference concludes

The HR Learning Conference concluded with a high powered CEO forum which focused on the role of HR in building businesses and also on the changing role of HR in Business. The CEOs were of the view that after the economic crisis, HR leaders need to now redefine their roles and their contribution to their enterprises. Because in the past with HR in the hands of the HR professional, HR became a function tied up with logistics and tools.

This is important but not enough. It should be an integrated part of the organizational plan and strategy. The "strategic development of intangible assets" is key to ensuring the organization is effective and efficient in the long-term. That's the HR's job. The CEO and HR are responsible for ensuring alignment of the organization's values and HR practices. CEOs, expect HR professionals to build organization systems and processes to make the company competitive. They want a balanced report card on how the organization attends to employee satisfaction and retention, as well as what HR is doing to enhance profitability.

HR "transactional" areas like benefits, compensation, recruiting and training are increasingly outsourced, and that has helped HR Leaders to focus more on business partnering.

The CEO panel comprised WINS Global Services Lanka, CEO, Dushan Soza, Virtusa Corporation, Global Services President, Keith Modder and Glaxo SmithKline, Managing Director Sachi Thomas. The session was modereated by Cornucopia Lanka Ltd, CEO, Dinesh Weerakkody.