My (HR) Highlights of the year

We all know that 2016 was a “annus horribilis”, from many angles. Despite the political insanity which has characterized 2016, and the premature deaths of so many legends, there have been some great moments, HR and otherwise. Here are my highlights:

Making it work from 5000 miles away.
I spent most of 2016 working remotely. And by remote, I mean half way round the globe.  I’d moved back to the UK at the end of 2015 thanks to my Dad’s ill health, and decided in typical stubborn fashion to continue to lead HR for the company, long distance. Before this experience, I actually thought I was a pretty good multi-tasker, but I soon discovered what it is to truly juggle many roles – Chief Talent Officer, Mother of 2, Driver, Cook, Cleaner … and all without the help we take for granted in Mumbai. Thanks to the company’s supportive and progressive stance, I managed to pull it off, just about.

Realising that Mumbai is “my” place.
It’s never easy to uproot yourself and live in another country. Although I’ve been an “expat” for over 16 years now, 13 of them in India, Mumbai has its own particular set of challenges. Spending some time away from my adopted home made me realize how much I love the energy, vibe and “can do” attitude of Mumbai. Returning from a year in the UK really made me appreciate the life I have here (especially the sunshine!).

The first anniversary of our new office
Although our Notan Heights office in Bandra was a legendary space for many reasons, it had become extremely cramped. We were growing fast, and running out of desk space.  Our “new” office, in comparison, is divine, space and vibe-wise. It took us all a while to adjust to being in Matunga, or “Bandra South” as we liked to refer to it, but once we’d discovered the benefits of being under one spacious roof, and tasted some of the neighbourhood’s culinary delights, there was no turning back.

Those who came and those who went
People come and go from every company, and we lost a few good ones this year. We also gained some great new talent across all of our verticals. We have two fantastic new leaders in the form of Kaizad and Anita, and I’m looking forward to attracting more talented folks in 2017 (and possibly also rehire some who left us!).

Celebrating our 10 year anniversary
September 1, 2006, was the day that Bang Bang Films became official. In the 10 years that have followed, the company has gone from strength to strength, and now occupies a truly unique position in the market, both locally and internationally. Here’s to the next 10 years!

Personal growth and development
It’s never too late to learn, and this year I started my journey to become an ICF (International Coaching Federation) trained Business Coach. I completed a fabulous course in the UK and have begun coaching employees within the company, building on a personal passion to help others grow and develop. I’ll be completing part 2 in June 2017, and I can’t wait to continue on this exciting journey.

And, in a nod to vanity …

Finally losing the baby weight!
I gained 23 kgs during both of my pregnancies, and the last 6 kgs had stubbornly remained, despite every diet I tried. In February 2016 I discovered a low carb diet which together with a renewed interest in the gym and running around after my kids during my months in the UK, finally helped me shift those stubborn chubby bits!