XLRI PGDM(GM) recently hosted Gaurav Sharma, Chief People Officer of Hindustan Coca Cola Beverages (HCCB) for a fire-side chat. The event was moderated by Krishna Kashyp and Oiendrila Mukherjee from XLRl and delved deep into the ever-evolving landscape of organizational dynamics.

The event started with an inaugural Address by Krishna Kashyp, and the felicitation of Mr. Sharma, by the GST members.

One of the several topics that Mr. Sharma addressed was the evaluation of sales team performance. He shed light on the unique challenges faced by the beverage industry, where demand forecasting can be particularly challenging due to the impulse-based nature of consumer behaviour, and how HCCB’s process-oriented measures ensure the availability of their products across markets, at all times.

In his address, Mr. Sharma also emphasized the importance of embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion; allowing individuals to express their own points of view and how this forms an integral part of the organizational purpose.

He also spoke about HCCB’s commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), the importance of giving back to the community and creating a sustainable future. He spoke of the various CSR initiatives undertaken by HCCB, including environmental sustainability, water conservation, women’s empowerment, education, and community development. The speaker emphasised on the company’s dedication to creating a sustainable and inclusive future which not only aligns with their core values but also translates to their entire stakeholder group.

This was followed by a Q&A session with the audience Mr. Sharma concluded the event by highlighting the vision and DNA of HCCB, the 26-year-old legacy of the company and how it is tailoring its way to a promising future.