The Evolving Role of HR in Boardroom Decision Making

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In this episode of the Vantage HR Influencers Podcast, we explore how HR is evolving from a traditional support function into a strategic voice in boardroom decision-making.

Host Riha is joined by Dr. Sarmistha Roychowdhury, HRO, Group Head HR, and Principal HR Advisor at Vform Tecnopacks Limited, to discuss how HR leaders can influence critical business decisions through workforce insights, people strategy, and a deeper understanding of organizational priorities. Together, they unpack how HR can balance employee advocacy with commercial objectives, anticipate workforce risks, contribute to conversations around technology and skills, and establish itself as a credible strategic partner to the board.

Guest Bio

Dr. Sarmistha Roychowdhury is a Board and CXO Advisor, former CHRO of NSE Group, and an IICA-Certified Independent Director with over 25 years of experience in strategic human resources leadership. She has partnered with boards and executive teams across listed, regulated, and high-growth organizations to shape enterprise-wide people strategies, strengthen governance, and lead organizational transformation.

A PhD in Human Resource Management from TISS, she specialises in talent strategy, succession planning, leadership development, people risk, DEI, HR analytics, and workforce transformation. She is also an award-winning HR leader, published thought leader, and frequent speaker on HR innovation, governance, leadership, and the future of work.

Timestamps

05:46- HR has traditionally been seen as a people function, but today we are seeing HR leaders entering more strategic boardroom conversations. What do you think has caused this shift?

11:27- What are the key business decisions today where HR’s voice is no longer optional?

15:41- Boards often discuss financial risk, operational risk, and market risk. Do you think talent and culture risk is now a board-level risk too?

19:23- Sometimes HR is expected to balance employee advocacy with business priorities. How can HR leaders manage that tension without losing credibility on either side?

23:28- As AI, hybrid work, skills shortages, and employee expectations continue to reshape work, how will HR’s role in board decision-making evolve further?

27:41- And finally, what advice would you give to HR leaders who want to move from being operational partners to strategic boardroom influencers?