interview
First job: The Aga Khan University Hospital
Childhood ambition: To become an international cricket player
Best boss and why: Faisal Al Suwaidi, Ex-chairperson, Chairman
of the Board, Qatar Petroleum, because he was an outstanding
listener. You felt like the most important person in the world while
talking to him.
Current source of inspiration: Imran Khan, cricket player turned
politician. I admire his determination and will to be successful
despite heavy odds.
Best piece of advice I ever got: “Be the best in what you do
and be passionate about it.”
Favourite music: Old Indian and Pakistani music, Celine Dion,
Stevie Wonder
Last book you read: How to be Exceptional: Drive Leadership
Success By Magnifying Your Strengths, by John Zenger, Joseph R.
Folkman, Robert H. Sherwin and Barbara Steel
How you spend your time away from work: I travel a lot, so
it’s important to spend time with family when I’m home. I also like
to read, play Scrabble and watch cricket.
IN A
NUTSHELL
HRP: What’s key to leading HR during a difficult time for
a client organization?
BK: It’s about sharing expectations with the client organization’s
leadership about the work to be done and challenges at hand. We
must also see that a regular follow-up process is in place to ensure
that expectations are met and any fine-tuning is done well in time.
HRP: What skills are important for success in HR?
BK: In-depth business knowledge, excellent technical knowledge,
relationship building skills, empathy and passion for your work.
The HR profession is becoming increasingly competitive. We
need to ensure that we are in the process of continually improving
our knowledge and skills.
HRP: What tips do you have for new grads or those in
entry-level HR jobs who want to move up the ladder?
BK: Be the best. Be a finisher. Develop credibility and trust by
delivering on time and according to promises. Be passionate about
what you do.
HRP: What’s the future of HR?
BK: HR will become a closer ally to business and a key player
in the success of organizations. A growing number of CEOs now
have an HR background, which is a testament to the growing importance
of HR in the organization.
Photo by Comstock / Photos.com
50 ❚ JANUARY 2014 ❚ HR PROFESSIONAL