A Trailblazer in the Employability and Education Sector: Neeti Sharma, CEO of TeamLease

In the realm of education and employability, few names stand as tall as Neeti Sharma's. With a career spanning over three decades, Neeti has carved out an impressive niche, becoming a stalwart in the sector. Her grounded personality and unwavering dedication to improving employability and education have earned her a revered place among industry leaders.

Currently serving as the CEO of TeamLease Digital, Neeti has been instrumental in hiring over 80,000 technology professionals, positioning the company as a preferred partner across various sectors. Her strategic leadership and innovative approach have significantly contributed to the company's growth and success.

Previously, as the President and Co-Founder of TeamLease Edtech, Neeti led the integration of multiple learning businesses, driving the company's growth and setting the stage for its potential IPO. Her efforts in business transformation resulted in an impressive annual growth rate of 20-25%.

Neeti's journey with TeamLease Services is particularly noteworthy. Starting as the Vice President, she was pivotal in developing partnerships with corporate and governmental organizations, launching extensive upskilling and reskilling initiatives. She played a crucial role in establishing India's first Vocational Skills University and pioneering Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Employment Exchanges. Additionally, Neeti is an integral part of TeamLease Skills University, contributing to its mission of providing high-quality vocational education and training.

Her earlier roles include being the General Manager at Aptech, where she managed IT learning and development operations, and a Software Developer & EDP Manager at Mittal Group, where she developed and maintained software systems supporting the company's operational needs.

With her exceptional talent in team management, talent acquisition, and business development, Neeti continues to inspire and lead in the education and employability sector. Her story is not just one of professional success but also of a deep commitment to making a meaningful impact on society.

In this exclusive interview, Dr Anand Wadadekar delves into Neeti Sharma's journey, her insights on the future of education and employability, and her advice for aspiring professionals in the field.

Neeti can be reached at neeti@teamlease.com | Her LinkedInProfile

1. Can you tell us about your school and college life in terms of your studies, exams, scoring marks and extra-curricular activities? Are you still connected with your school and college friends?

I had the privilege of studying in two convent schools from nursery to class 10th, which set a solid foundation for my education. When I started college for class 11th, my father’s transfer took us to Chennai, where I completed my 11th and 12th grades. Returning to Mumbai, I pursued an undergraduate degree in Statistics, and that's when things really took off. I scored an internship with a shipping company right after college, immersing myself in the essentials of corporate life.

But I didn't stop there. Alongside my internship, I dove into a master's in Economics and a software development/e-commerce course, eager to expand my horizons. The values of discipline, integrity, and empathy, ingrained in me from my school days, have been my guiding principles throughout my journey. My school years were an exciting blend of fun and valuable lessons, and I was an enthusiastic member of the volleyball, handball, and basketball teams.

Public speaking was a hurdle for me, but I tackled it head-on, overcoming my fears step by step. Today, I cherish the vibrant connections with my school and college peers, thanks to the wonders of social media. Those years were filled with energy, growth, and unforgettable memories, laying the groundwork for the person I am today.

2. You have had a remarkable career spanning over three decades. What were some of the pivotal moments in your journey from Aptech to your current role as CEO of TeamLease Digital?

I've had the incredible privilege of working with amazing managers and colleagues, each contributing invaluable lessons that have shaped my journey. From mastering the basics of the corporate world to expertly managing stakeholders across private and public institutions, every experience has fueled my growth. My time at Aptech was particularly transformative, offering global travel and the chance to engage with people from diverse nationalities. Every interaction was a unique learning experience, deepening my understanding of different languages, cultures, and business styles. From the early days at Teamlease to today – being a staffing company that shaped the staffing industry in India, to going public and to now, this journey has been an exhilarating adventure, and I'm immensely grateful for the life lessons that continue to guide me.

3. As the President and Co-Founder of TeamLease Edtech, what were the key challenges you faced while integrating multiple learning businesses, and how did you overcome them?

Integrating two businesses, teams, and cultures was a remarkable journey filled with exciting opportunities. Our first endeavor was to ensure that our team members fully understood the necessity of this integration, the myriad advantages it brought, and the personalized roadmaps for each individual. We dedicated significant time to engaging with both teams, conducting group sessions and numerous one-on-one meetings to address any concerns and foster a sense of unity. Next, we collaboratively created a compelling vision that would serve as our shared purpose and drive our collective efforts. Finally, we developed an aligned business roadmap, guiding us toward a prosperous and unified future. This dynamic integration process not only brought us closer but also positioned us for unprecedented growth and success.

4. Your role in establishing India’s first Vocational Skills University is commendable. Can you share the vision and mission behind TeamLease Skills University and your involvement in it?

The establishment of Teamlease Skills University, India's first skills university, was driven by the vision of integrating the signaling value of a degree with practical skills. This vision came to life through programs like BSc in Mechatronics, BCom in Financial Services, and BA in Hospitality and Tourism, among others. Our students benefit from a unique learning experience across diverse environments: on-campus, on-the-job, and online and getting multiple on and off ramps with exit corridors of a Certificate, Diploma, Advanced Diploma and Degree. This holistic approach equips them with the skills needed to secure employment immediately upon graduation

5. In your current role as CEO of TeamLease Digital, what are the major initiatives you have undertaken to drive growth and innovation?

TeamLease Digital is at the right place and is poised for growth. We continue to review our strategy comprehensively identify areas for growth and improvement, set our priorities and adjust existing ones to create an enabling environment for scale. They may also focus on building or strengthening the leadership team, ensuring the right talent is in place to drive the company's objectives. Additionally, we have increased our focus on enhancing customer and stakeholder relationships, as well as implementing operational efficiencies and digitilization to improve profitability.

6. As a leader who has witnessed significant industry changes, what is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned, and how has it shaped your approach to leadership?

The most valuable lesson I’ve learned as a leader in an evolving industry is the importance of adaptability. Change is inevitable, and the ability to not only embrace it but to lead through it has been crucial. I have seen that teams and businesses that are agile, open to new ideas, and willing to pivot when necessary, thrive.

This lesson has shaped my approach to leadership by instilling in me the need to foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation. I encourage my teams to stay curious, to challenge the status quo, and to view challenges as opportunities for growth. It's not just about reacting to change, but proactively seeking out ways to improve and evolve.

Also, communication is key in times of change. Being transparent about the reasons behind decisions, listening to concerns, and involving the team in the process fosters trust and collaboration. It’s this combination of adaptability and communication that has defined my leadership style and helped me steer my teams successfully through the complexities of our industry.

7. Having worked for three decades in domains of employment, technology, education what major trends have you observed? Also, what keeps you passionate about these all these years?

A lot has changed from the time I started work. While the basic principles of organizations remain the same, digital transformation and changing workforce expectations. In technology, the rise of artificial intelligence, automation, and data-driven decision-making has revolutionized industries, offering both opportunities and challenges. Education has increasingly embraced online learning, with a focus on skills along with traditional degrees, as the demand for continuous learning grows. The constant evolution of these fields and the opportunity to help shape the future, empowering individuals and organizations to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing landscape, keeps me going.

8. What advice would you give to freshers who are just starting their careers in today's competitive market? For experienced professionals looking to stay relevant, what skills and qualities do you think are essential for continued success?

For freshers entering the labour market today, it's crucial to focus on continuous learning and adaptability. Developing a strong foundation in relevant technical skills, staying updated with industry trends, and nurturing soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving are essential. Networking and seeking mentorship can also provide valuable guidance and opportunities.

For experienced professionals aiming to stay relevant, embracing lifelong learning is key. This includes upskilling in emerging technologies, honing leadership abilities, and maintaining a flexible mindset to adapt to evolving industry demands. Staying connected with industry peers and contributing to professional communities can also help sustain career growth and relevance.

9. What are your thoughts on the current state of women’s participation in the workforce in India, and what measures can be taken to overcome gender bias and create a more inclusive work environment?

Women in India make up 48% of the population, however, they contribute only 17% to the GDP of the country. In the tech industry, only 36% of the entry workforce is women.  In order to make India a developed nation by 2047, we need to create a balanced workforce that can withstand any force majeure changes that are likely to occur in the future. This can only be achieved by investment in bringing women to the workforce by investing in them, across all sectors of the economy. Our economy will massively benefit by creating an inclusive strategy and a gender balanced workforce participation. 

10. Technology is rapidly changing the world of work. What are the key technological trends that you believe will have the most significant impact on education and employability in the near future?

Technology is transforming education and the workforce rather quickly. Among the most influential trends are Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML), which are personalizing learning experiences and automating tasks, thus redefining roles, reducing few redundant roles and creating new jobs. Online learning platforms and MOOCs are making education more accessible and flexible, enabling lifelong learning and upskilling. Additionally, the rise of the gig economy and remote work, facilitated by digital collaboration tools, is altering traditional employment models. These trends collectively demand a shift in educational curricula to focus on digital literacy, critical thinking, and adaptability, ensuring that the workforce is prepared for the evolving job market.

11. If you could have a superpower at the office for one day, what would it be and how would you use it?

If I had a superpower at the office for one day, I'd choose the ability to get all our wish-list customers on board with large and long-term partnerships. And just for fun, I’d throw in the power to make them all say, “We should’ve done this sooner!” in unison during the kick-off meeting.

12. How has your family supported your career, and how do you balance your professional commitments with family time? Outside of work, what hobbies and interests do you pursue? How do they contribute to your overall well-being?

My family has been a tremendous source of support throughout my life. Their understanding and encouragement have allowed me to focus on my personal & professional growth. Balancing time between family and work is very important and I try my best to bring this balance in my life.

Outside of work, I enjoy activities that help me recharge and stay grounded. I’m passionate about animal welfare, reading and travelling, which not only provide a break from work but also contribute to my mental and physical well-being. These interests allow me to maintain a healthy balance, ensuring that I am refreshed and energized both in my personal life and professional commitments.

© Dr. Anand Wadadekar