Learning Boosts Staff Engagement at TVS Supply Chain

E-learning module, leadership development programmes help company keep employee satisfaction high.

-  NEVIN JOHN

IN EARLY 2014 when TVS Supply Chain Solutions (TVS SCS) was building its international network through acquisitions, E. Balaji was brought in as the chief human resources officer (CHRO) to integrate the entities that the company wanted to take over in North America, Europe and South East Asia. In the next eight years, TVS Supply Chain acquired 20 firms.

The TVS management wanted the acquisitions not to upset work cultures of acquired entities while using their potential to ramp up logistics and warehousing play outside the automobile sector. Balaji had to address the fear factor by ensuring job security and offering a mix of financial and non-financial incentives. Constant engagement with employees helped build trust. TVS SCS now has 6,000 employees in 25 countries outside India.

The logistics and warehousing company weathered a number of HR challenges, but Balaji's tough time came during the pandemic. Unlike companies in other sectors, 95% of TVS SCS' workforce was on the ground since transportation of medicines and FMCG products became the need of the hour. Balaji had the tough task of motivating the team. The company offered insurance, financial and medical help and counselling to employees and their families.