Deepika Jindal DistFHRNZ
What was your first role in HR, and what role do you currently have?
My first role in HR was at Trident Ltd, a large Indian manufacturing conglomerate. Over a decade at Trident, I transitioned from strategy into HR and worked across diverse projects and teams. I gained experience in multiple areas of HRM, such as recruitment, training, performance management, and rewards, and led large-scale employee engagement and organisational development initiatives. Currently, I am a Professional Teaching Fellow at the University of Auckland Business School, where I teach HRM and related courses. I also serve as Subject Group Lead for Management and Programme Director for the Master of Business Management (MBM).
What led you to a career in HR and the position that you are in currently?
My journey into HR began during my MBA, where I discovered a deep curiosity about people - what drives them, how they think, and how organisations can support their growth. That curiosity led me to a decade-long career at Trident Ltd. Later, my move to New Zealand and pursuit of a PhD in HRM opened doors to academia.
What do you enjoy about working in HR?
Work occupies a significant part of our lives and shapes our sense of identity and wellbeing. Having the opportunity to make a positive difference in people’s work experiences and help organisations create environments where people can thrive makes this work deeply meaningful to me.
Are there any specific highlights of your career that you wish to share?
There have been many meaningful milestones, from leading large-scale HR initiatives at Trident, to receiving HRNZ’s HR Person of the Year and Leadership Awards in 2025, and being honoured with university awards. But just as significant are the micro moments: the spontaneous conversations with students that spark new ideas, the quiet breakthroughs in the classroom, and the collaborative exchanges with industry partners that lead to real-world impact. I’ve found great fulfilment in leading innovative and future-focused projects within the university that bridge academia and industry, enhance student development, and foster ongoing learning. For me, it’s not just the big achievements, it’s the everyday moments of connection, learning, and shared purpose that truly define my journey.
What career advice would you give to someone early on in their career in HR?
Stay curious and open to learning. HR is not just about policies, it’s about people, purpose, and impact. Seek roles that align with your values, and don’t be afraid to craft your own path. Build strong relationships, stay connected with industry, and remember that meaningful work often comes from reflecting regularly, asking thoughtful questions, and listening deeply.
Please describe your journey towards becoming a Distinguished Fellow. How was the experience?
The journey has been both humbling and rewarding. For me, this milestone feels like an acknowledgment not just of my work, but of the incredible support I’ve received from mentors, colleagues, and students along the way. I never set out with the goal of becoming a Distinguished Fellow - I simply focused on doing meaningful work, staying curious, and contributing where I could. Over time, the path unfolded naturally. This experience reminds me that when you commit to your purpose and keep learning, recognition often follows as a byproduct, not as the destination.
Are there any goals or projects that you are currently working on that you wish to share?
I’m currently engaged in research projects exploring job crafting and career crafting, alongside delivering workshops on these topics to both industry and academia. Beyond research, I’m focused on strengthening the Master of Business Management (MBM) programme, which successfully pivoted to a fully online format in late 2025. I’m also leading initiatives to raise the profile and impact of HR education at the University, while deepening collaboration between academia and industry to create meaningful engagement and real-world impact.