Uniting People, Fostering Positivity
Sabeela Masroor
Head HR and L&D,
SaveBySwitching Global Solutions
Successful HR professionals need a diverse skill set to navigate the multifaceted challenges of today’s dynamic, global workplaces. Traits like adaptability, leadership, and a genuine passion for people are paramount in steering through complexities while fostering growth and unity. At the helm of this crucial domain is Sabeela Masroor, a seasoned Head of HR at SaveBySwitching Global Solutions, whose 17+ years of professional journey epitomise these indispensable qualities.
Sabeela symbolises a contemporary HR leader, shaped by a natural knack for uniting people and fostering positivity. Displaying innate leadership since youth, she excelled in guiding discussions and conflict resolution, laying the groundwork for empowering individuals and nurturing cohesive work environments. Her academic journey in sociology at Delhi University stemmed from an intense curiosity about human psychology.
Despite initial hesitance, she embraced diverse roles across industries, defying traditional career paths. With a Master’s in Psychology and expertise in counselling and psychometrics, Sabeela embodies adaptability and risk-taking. Her global impact spans industries, influencing over 5000 individuals and showcasing agility from healthcare to oil and petroleum. Beyond HR, her commitment extends to arts appreciation, complementing her dedication to the profession. As Head of HR at SBS, she curates a harmonious workplace, emphasising talent, diversity, stakeholder relations, and organisational growth.
In an interaction with Sabeela, TradeFlock explores more about her.Â
Managing globally dispersed teams presents challenges. How do you maintain productivity and navigate these complexities?
Working with diverse global teams has been more enriching than challenging. Cultural exposure began early in my schooling, offering insights into varied work styles. Europeans favour structure, while Americans are direct and results-driven. This diversity in approach aids in handling difficult conversations smoothly. To maintain productivity, I emphasise open communication and respecting cultural differences. Adaptable processes accommodate diverse work methods, optimising team performance. Fostering a shared purpose despite geographical distances cultivates a cohesive team, driving collective success.
From XLRI's HR Management Programme, what crucial lessons have you carried into your HR leadership roles?
XLRI’s Human Resource Management Programme instilled invaluable lessons that transcend both the professional and personal realms. It emphasised the power of teamwork, discipline, resilience, and ethical leadership. It fostered a culture of continuous learning, nurturing a drive to create leaders, not just followers. As an alumnus, the XLRI experience fuels an unwavering commitment to excellence and ongoing personal and professional growth.
Reflecting on your career, what's your proudest and most meaningful achievement, and why?
My most cherished achievement extends beyond titles or awards—it’s the enduring impact on individuals. When people reach out, seeking advice or sharing successes even after my role changes, it speaks volumes about the meaningful connections forged. Knowing I’ve provided support when needed most is the ultimate reward in my career, affirming the significance of genuine relationships beyond professional positions.
How has your psychology background shaped your HR leadership, contributing to exceptional workplaces in your career?
My background in counselling and psychometrics has significantly shaped my approach to HR management and leadership. It’s been a cornerstone in understanding the complexities of human behaviour and fostering a workplace environment that prioritises individuals’ well-being and growth. This expertise has proven instrumental in conflict resolution within organisations. By applying psychological principles, I delve into underlying issues, navigating power dynamics, ego clashes, and intricate vulnerabilities. This understanding forms the bedrock of a culture rooted in empathy and emotional intelligence, paving the way for open communication, trust, and effective problem-solving. Encouraging the study of psychology goes beyond academia; it’s about nurturing essential human qualities. Psychology cultivates humility, active listening, and empathy, indispensable traits in our people-driven world. Understanding diverse mindsets allows us to create an inclusive workplace where every voice is heard, appreciated, and valued. Moreover, my expertise in psychometrics has allowed me to implement effective personality assessments and development programmes, tailoring approaches to suit individual strengths and preferences. This personalised touch has significantly contributed to fostering employee engagement and satisfaction across various industries and organisational hierarchies.
Can you describe a recent significant HR challenge you faced, how you tackled it, and what insights you gained from that experience?
Transitioning to a new role in Bangalore wasn’t just a professional shift; it marked a significant personal journey. Relocating from Delhi meant immersing myself in a new city, language, and lifestyle. Adjusting to these changes and my own anxiety while navigating social, cultural, and psychological shifts became a profound part of this transition. Amidst this, fostering a thriving work environment became my mission. Initiatives like informal gatherings and strategic decisions aligned with our ‘people first’ approach were pivotal. They not only facilitated team integration but also resonated with my personal commitment to fostering trust, open communication, and understanding diverse needs. This experience underlined the holistic significance of adaptability, not just in a professional capacity but in embracing life changes and diverse environments. It reinforced the notion that success in any role hinges on the ability to blend personal growth with professional adaptability, thereby transforming challenges into opportunities for both personal and organisational development.
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