In this in-depth interview, we explore the leadership journey of Bala Sathyanarayanan, Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Greif. We cover various aspects of his career, including his leadership philosophy, insights into industry trends, strategies for adapting to change, commitment to social and environmental responsibility, and the skills he considers essential for success.
Leadership Philosophy and Success Factors
Bala attributes his success to three key factors: a passion for serving people through servant leadership, recognizing that organizational success is closely tied to individual success, and understanding that leaders play a crucial role in ensuring the organization thrives through its people.
Industry Trends and Challenges for 2024
Looking ahead, Bala identifies five overarching themes that will shape the business landscape in 2024 and beyond. These include geopolitics and globalization, the impact of technology, evolving leadership styles, strategic talent acquisition and development, and the challenges of governing a global organization in an ever-changing global context.
Adapting to a Changing Landscape
To prepare Greif for the evolving business landscape, Bala emphasizes three key themes: assessing and understanding necessary changes, clear and consistent communication with stakeholders, and fostering flexibility and agility within the organization. He also highlights the importance of aligning the organizational culture with future goals.
Overcoming Obstacles and Failures
Bala shares insights into navigating challenges, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, stressing the need for team alignment and clear communication to successfully overcome obstacles.
Fostering a Culture of Innovation
Creating a culture of innovation, according to Bala, involves aligning company values with future innovation goals, promoting incremental innovations, and openly communicating about change. He underscores the importance of involving relevant stakeholders to build a culture that supports innovation.
Impactful Learning Experiences
Bala emphasizes the significance of continuous learning through Greif University, a global virtual university offering over 22,000 courses. He stresses the importance of ambition, energy, and focus for employees to stay on the cutting edge and contribute to the company’s success.
Building and Nurturing Strong Teams
Bala highlights the importance of self-awareness, a reflective mindset, self-assurance, and empathy in building and nurturing strong teams. He underscores the need for a team to project reassurance, especially in a globally dispersed organization.
Social and Environmental Responsibility
Under the umbrella of sustainability, Bala discusses Greif’s focus on diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. He emphasizes the importance of responsible and sustainable practices that benefit not only customers but also various stakeholders.
Digital Transformation in 2024
Bala recognizes the crucial role of digital transformation in meeting evolving customer expectations. He outlines ongoing efforts to lead Greif through a continuous journey of business transformation to enhance the digital experience for customers.
Essential Skills for Success
Apart from technical skills, Bala emphasizes the value of “soft skills,” including self-awareness, confidence, cultural understanding, and the ability to work collaboratively. These skills, he believes, are essential for success in the business world.
Continued Influence on the Business Landscape
Bala views a leader’s role as continuously influencing the business landscape by staying informed about external factors impacting the organization. He emphasizes the importance of awareness and adaptation to ensure continued influence in an ever-changing business environment.
Significant Achievements and Milestones
Bala shares two significant achievements: successfully navigating Greif through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the organization’s resilience, and seamlessly integrating a major acquisition, showcasing Greif’s ability to thrive through strategic moves.
Recognitions and Awards
Throughout his illustrious career, Bala has been recognized as one of the Top 5 Most Influential Business Leaders to Follow in 2023, a part of the High Flyers 50 Global Indians, and an Executive of the Year in 2019. He has consistently received accolades, including being listed among the 10 Most Remarkable Business Leaders ruling the Modern Industry in 2022, and recognized in 2014 as one of the Outstanding 50 Asian Americans in Business. Bala’s leadership acumen has also been acknowledged with the 2018 HR Hero award for elevating the strategic role of HR, and he continues to be a prominent figure among the Top 10 HR Leaders in 2020.
This comprehensive overview provides a detailed look into Bala Sathyanarayanan’s leadership journey, offering valuable insights into his strategies, values, and the factors that have contributed to his success in the dynamic world of business.
