Interview Times 
Mr. Rabi Narayan Sahoo, a seasoned HR and IR professional with over two decades of experience across diverse organizations, is currently designated as General Manager (HR & IR) at IFGL Refractories Ltd. He holds a postgraduate degree in MHRM from Utkal University. Over the years, he has built a distinguished career on a strong foundation of practical leadership, effective employee engagement, and industrial relations. The Interview Times had a conversation with Mr. Rabi Narayan Sahoo through a questionnaire. Below are the responses he shared with us, reflecting his extensive experience and perspectives in HR and Industrial Relations.
Q1. Sir, would you please tell us about your early life and what inspired you to pursue a career in Human Resources?
Answer- Being the son of an OAS officer, watching my father handle administration so efficiently has always inspired me to pursue a career where I can work closely with people and manage sensitive situations using my problem-solving abilities and people-management skills.
Q2. Sir, did you always aspire to build a career in HR, or did you consider other professions before choosing this field?
Answer – I have never aspired to be anything else; I have always been oriented toward becoming a successful HR & IR professional, with a strong focus on lifelong learning, people management, and leadership.
Q3. Sir, could you tell us about the early-career challenges that significantly shaped your leadership path?
Answer – In the early years of my career, I worked across four different states, each offering unique HR challenges and learning experiences. My primary responsibility was acquiring the right talent, which demanded adaptability, sound judgment, and strong people-management skills. Navigating diverse work environments and building capable teams enhanced my confidence and leadership abilities. From these experiences, I gained several valuable opportunities that further broadened my exposure and helped shape the leader I am today.
Q4. Sir, was there a defining moment or experience that shaped your approach to leadership?
Answer – In 2008, when IL&FS acquired 80% equity in Maytas, I was serving as the Project HR In-Charge for different projects in Odisha, and I was entrusted with leading the project closure process while managing more than 1,000 direct and indirect employees. Guiding the workforce through uncertainty required clear communication, strategic motivation, and strong emotional intelligence. Successfully keeping the team focused during this transition not only reinforced my leadership capabilities but also deepened my understanding of Industrial Relations. This experience gave me a renewed vision for people management and played a pivotal role in shaping my professional approach.
Q5. Sir, what key advice would you share with aspiring HR professionals?
Answer – My first and foremost advice is to stay open to feedback—both positive and negative. Next, focus on strong communication skills and building professional networks. Finally, be a lifelong learner so you can adapt to changes in public interest and legal requirements.
Q6. Sir, could you tell us about the most touching or memorable moment in your professional journey so far?
Answer – We all experienced the melancholy of the COVID-19 pandemic. For me, it was a new and challenging phase, especially in managing workplace safety and addressing employee well-being, including their mental health. Despite the fear and uncertainty, I had to remain physically present to implement safety protocols and regulations. There was immense stress, burnout, and disruption, yet I successfully safeguarded the workplace through strategic measures. This high-risk challenge taught me invaluable lessons and remains one of the most memorable experiences of my career.
Q7. Sir, would you like to share any feedback or any message?
Answer – Take ownership and LLL (Life Long Learn). Whatever role you are entrusted with, take full responsibility for it. When you own your work, your decisions, and your outcomes, you naturally grow and become more confident. Continuous learning and accountability are the keys to both personal and professional excellence.
