- Seasoned HR leader to steer people strategy as Automotive business enters next growth phase
- Appointment effective January 1, 2026, reinforces SKF’s focus on inclusive, performance-driven culture
- Over 18 years of HR expertise to drive talent, leadership and organisational excellence
NE BUSINESS BUREAU
PUNE, JAN 2
SKF India Ltd. (Automotive) has announced the appointment of Bhavna Panigrahi as its new Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO), effective January 1, 2026, marking a significant step in strengthening the company’s leadership team as it accelerates its growth journey.
In her new role, Bhavna will lead SKF India’s people and organisational strategy, overseeing talent management, HR operations, industrial relations, leadership development and organisational effectiveness. She will work closely with the leadership team to align people priorities with business objectives, enable long-term growth, and foster a culture centred on inclusion, performance and innovation.
Bhavna brings with her over 18 years of extensive Human Resources experience, having worked with several leading organisations. She joined SKF India in 2022 as HR Head – Technology Development and subsequently took on the role of Head HR for the Automotive business. During her tenure, she led key strategic initiatives across people experience, talent acquisition and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI), delivering impactful outcomes and strengthening business performance.
Sharing her vision, Bhavna said, “Calm leadership and inclusive innovation unlock creativity and resilience. As SKF India enters its next phase of growth, I am committed to building people strategies that are closely aligned with business goals, strengthen leadership capability, and foster an inclusive environment where individuals and teams can thrive. At SKF, we move people further and I look forward to contributing to sustainable value creation for people, business, and society.”
Bhavna’s appointment underscores SKF India’s commitment to empowering its people and driving progress that benefits employees, customers and communities alike.
