Introduction: SHRM Tech 2.0 2025 Sets the Stage for GCCs in India

The SHRM Tech 2.0 2025 conference in Mumbai has emerged as a pivotal event for the HR and technology landscape, particularly for Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in India. This year, the event made headlines as SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) and LinkedIn jointly launched a comprehensive Talent Playbook, signaling a new era for talent management and strategic workforce planning in India’s burgeoning GCC sector. This article delves into the key takeaways from the event, the significance of the Talent Playbook, and how professional services companies can leverage these insights for establishing and scaling their GCCs in India. We also explore the unique role of Han Digital in shaping talent strategies for global organizations.

SHRM Tech 2.0 2025 Mumbai: A Confluence of HR Innovation and Technology

The SHRM Tech 2.0 2025 conference brought together global HR leaders, technology innovators, and business strategists to discuss the future of work. The highlight was the unveiling of the Talent Playbook by SHRM and LinkedIn, specifically tailored for the evolving needs of GCCs in India. This move underscores the increasing importance of India as a global hub for innovation, digital transformation, and talent development.

The Talent Playbook: A Blueprint for GCC Success

The Talent Playbook is designed as a strategic guide for organizations establishing or expanding their GCCs in India. It addresses critical aspects such as talent acquisition, retention, upskilling, diversity and inclusion, and the integration of digital technologies in HR processes. According to ET CISO’s coverage, the Playbook leverages LinkedIn’s vast talent data and SHRM’s expertise in HR best practices, offering actionable insights for HR leaders and business heads.

Why India? The Rise of GCCs and the Talent Advantage

India has rapidly evolved into a preferred destination for Global Capability Centres. As per a recent NASSCOM report (2023), India hosts over 1,580 GCCs, employing more than 1.66 million professionals. The country’s robust talent pool, cost advantages, and digital-first mindset make it an attractive location for multinational corporations (MNCs) seeking to drive innovation and operational excellence.

Key drivers for GCC growth in India include:

• Access to Skilled Talent: India produces over 1.5 million engineering graduates annually, with a growing focus on digital and emerging technologies.
• Cost Efficiency: Operational costs in India are significantly lower compared to Western markets, without compromising on quality.
• Innovation Ecosystem: India’s startup culture and government initiatives like Digital India foster a conducive environment for R&D and digital transformation.
• Strategic Location: Proximity to APAC, EMEA, and US time zones enables seamless global operations.

Latest Research: Trends Shaping GCCs in 2025 and Beyond

Recent research from EY’s India GCC Pulse Survey 2023 and NASSCOM highlights several trends that are set to define the future of GCCs in India:

• Digital Transformation: Over 70% of GCCs are investing in AI, automation, and cloud technologies to enhance business agility and innovation.
• Talent Upskilling: Continuous learning and upskilling are top priorities, with 65% of GCCs increasing their L&D budgets in 2024-25.
• Diversity & Inclusion: There is a marked increase in D&I initiatives, with a focus on gender diversity and inclusive leadership.
• Hybrid Work Models: The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of flexible and hybrid work arrangements, making India a leader in remote workforce management.
• Leadership Development: GCCs are investing in leadership pipelines to ensure future-ready management teams.

These trends align closely with the recommendations in the SHRM-LinkedIn Talent Playbook, making it a timely resource for organizations looking to establish or expand their GCCs in India.

Professional Services Companies: Leveraging the Talent Playbook for GCC Excellence

For professional services companies—including IT consulting, legal, finance, and engineering firms—India’s GCC landscape offers immense opportunities. The Talent Playbook provides a roadmap for navigating the complexities of talent acquisition, compliance, and cultural integration. Key strategies for success include:

• Strategic Workforce Planning: Use data-driven insights to forecast talent needs and build agile teams.
• Employer Branding: Position your GCC as an employer of choice through compelling EVP (Employee Value Proposition) initiatives.
• Digital HR Transformation: Implement HR tech solutions for seamless onboarding, performance management, and employee engagement.
• Compliance & Risk Management: Stay updated on labor laws and regulatory requirements to ensure smooth operations.
• Partnerships with Talent Experts: Collaborate with talent advisory firms like Han Digital for market intelligence and leadership hiring.

Han Digital: Your Partner in Navigating India’s Talent Market

Han Digital stands out as a trusted partner for organizations seeking to establish or scale their GCCs in India. With over two decades of experience, Han Digital has developed a unique understanding of India’s talent landscape, particularly in technology, consulting, and professional services sectors.

What Sets Han Digital Apart?

• Deep Market Intelligence: Han Digital leverages proprietary research and analytics to provide real-time insights on talent availability, compensation trends, and skill gaps across Indian cities.
• Senior Leadership Connections: Their strong relationships with CXOs and senior HR leaders enable access to top-tier talent and strategic advisory on leadership hiring.
• Customized Talent Solutions: From executive search to talent mapping and employer branding, Han Digital offers end-to-end solutions tailored to GCC needs.
• Proven Track Record: Han Digital has successfully partnered with Fortune 500 companies, helping them build high-performing teams and future-ready GCCs in India.

As GCCs face increased competition for niche skills and leadership talent, partnering with experts like Han Digital ensures a competitive edge in the dynamic Indian talent market.

Case Study: How Han Digital Enabled a Fortune 500 Company’s GCC Success

In 2023, a leading Fortune 500 professional services firm partnered with Han Digital to establish its technology GCC in Bangalore. Han Digital conducted a comprehensive talent market analysis, identified leadership candidates, and designed a robust employer branding strategy. Within 12 months, the GCC onboarded over 500 skilled professionals and built a strong leadership pipeline, setting a benchmark for operational excellence and innovation.

Future Outlook: GCCs in India and the Road Ahead

The future of GCCs in India is bright, with industry experts projecting a 10-12% CAGR in the sector over the next five years (Deloitte, 2023). As organizations embrace digital transformation and global talent strategies, India will continue to play a pivotal role in driving business growth and innovation.

The SHRM-LinkedIn Talent Playbook, combined with expert guidance from talent partners like Han Digital, provides a winning formula for professional services companies looking to establish or expand their GCCs in India. By focusing on strategic workforce planning, leadership development, and digital HR transformation, organizations can unlock the full potential of India’s talent ecosystem.

Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Work with SHRM Tech 2.0 and Han Digital

The SHRM Tech 2.0 2025 conference in Mumbai has set a new benchmark for HR innovation, particularly for GCCs in India. The launch of the Talent Playbook by SHRM and LinkedIn offers actionable insights for organizations navigating the complexities of talent management in a rapidly changing world. For professional services companies, India’s GCC landscape presents unparalleled opportunities for growth, innovation, and value creation.

Han Digital