Chitkara University Awards Honorary Doctorate to S V Nathan for HR Leadership and Social Impact

Chitkara University conferred the Doctor of Literature (Honoris Causa) upon S V Nathan, a renowned leader in human resources management, organisational transformation, and social upliftment. The honorary degree recognises Nathan’s extraordinary achievements over four decades of reshaping HR practices in India and his contributions to advancing education, skills development, and societal growth. His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment have set new benchmarks in HR and social responsibility, making him a role model for aspiring professionals and a catalyst for positive change. Nathan’s impact resonates across industries and communities, underscoring the profound influence of his work on both the corporate sector and society at large.

S V Nathan, currently the CEO of Visara Partners, has been a pioneering force in the field of HR, leading strategic initiatives that have transformed industries. In his previous role as the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) of Deloitte – South Asia, Nathan was a key figure on both the India Leadership Team and the Global Talent Executive Leadership. His career spans over forty years across multiple industries, including manufacturing, telecom, IT, professional services, and more. His leadership in companies like ICI, Philips Software Centre, Reliance Communication, Sterling Holiday, and Microland reflects his ability to scale and transform organisations.

A trained behavioural scientist, Nathan’s approach to HR has always focused on aligning human resources strategy with overarching business goals. He firmly believes that an organisation’s success is driven by the integration of HR policies with its objectives, and his work has had a profound impact on the companies he has served. Beyond the corporate world, Nathan is committed to social upliftment, advocating for education and skills development as fundamental pillars for societal progress.

Nathan’s contributions to the HR profession extend beyond his corporate roles. As a former President of the National Human Resources Development Network and Chairman of Sumedhas, an academy for human context, Nathan has played a significant role in shaping the next generation of HR leaders. He is a respected voice in the HR community, having been recognised as a ‘Distinguished Alumnus’ by XLRI, his alma mater, and receiving accolades such as the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ from Economic Times and Business People.

An accomplished author, Nathan’s book, The Heart of Work, has gained national acclaim for its insights into workplace dynamics. Additionally, his #OfficeTruths series on LinkedIn and Twitter has garnered significant attention, positioning him as a social media influencer and thought leader in HR.

In awarding the Doctor of Literature (Honoris Causa) to S V Nathan, Chitkara University acknowledges his visionary leadership, his pivotal role in shaping HR practices, and his dedication to social and educational causes. This honorary degree is a testament to his enduring legacy as a leader, mentor, and storyteller in the field of human resources and beyond.

Chitkara University, through this honour, reiterates its commitment to celebrating individuals who have made a significant impact on society. Nathan’s influence in the realms of HR and social progress will continue to inspire generations to come, ensuring that his contributions resonate well into the future.