Interviewtimes 
In the ever-evolving landscape of corporate leadership, the Aditya Birla Group bid farewell to one of its longstanding pillars, Dr. Santrupt Misra, who recently opted for early retirement after an illustrious 27-year tenure. His departure marks the end of an era characterized by visionary leadership, innovation, and a commitment to shaping not just companies but the future of leadership itself.
Dr. Misra’s journey with the Aditya Birla Group commenced in 1996, a pivotal moment when he joined as the Vice President of HR, transitioning from Hindustan Unilever. From the outset, he was a risk-taker, engaging in a bet with Kumar Birla that reflected their shared spirit of entrepreneurship and youthfulness during their early days.
Over the years, Dr. Misra’s influence went beyond traditional HR roles. Holding positions such as Group Director of Birla Carbon, Director of Chemicals, and eventually the Global Director of Human Resources, he showcased versatility by successfully taking on the role of CEO in the chemicals division.
His educational prowess, marked by two postgraduate degrees and two PhDs in Political Science, Personnel Management & Industrial Relations, Public Administration, and Industrial Relations, garnered global recognition. The Fellowship of the National Academy of Human Resources (NAHR), USA, and a place on the Global Advisory Board of the Association of Executive Search Consultants (AESC) solidified his standing in the corporate world.
Instrumental in developing a robust employer brand for the Aditya Birla Group, Dr. Misra’s innovative HR practices led the conglomerate to be recognized as the Best Employer in India. Under his leadership, the group received accolades such as Great Place for Leaders to Work and Top Company for Leaders by Aon Hewitt, Fortune Magazine, and RBL Group, respectively.
Beyond the boardroom, Dr. Misra’s influence extended far and wide. Serving as the Chairman of the Project Advisory Committee for the ‘Ekamra Kshetra Scheme,’ a significant project for the heritage of Odisha, showcased his commitment to public service. His appointment as a Director on the Board of Karmayogi Bharat aligned with the government’s mission for a competent civil service.
As Dr. Misra takes an early retirement, his successor, Ashok Ramchandran, steps into the role of Director of HR. The transition signifies the passing of the torch but also a continuation of the principles and values that have defined the Aditya Birla Group under Dr. Misra’s leadership.
In the world of corporate giants, Dr. Santrupt Misra’s journey is not just a tale of professional success but a narrative of resilience, innovation, and a commitment to shaping the future of leadership. As the Aditya Birla Group bids farewell to this visionary leader, it also anticipates the ongoing legacy that will undoubtedly continue to influence the corporate landscape.
