Suneela Uppala

Joined in November 2023 with a mandate to update HR processes and systems, and support the team in implementing GDPR compliance and Dutch legal requirements.

• Focused on process improvements related to data privacy, accuracy, and functional efficiency.
• Partnered cross-functionally with IT and tech teams to align HR systems with regulatory standards and organizational needs.

Led the setup of the IKEA Tech Hub in Bangalore, managing a team of recruiters and onboarding specialists, while collaborating with stakeholders across the Netherlands and Sweden.

• Built the recruitment function from the ground up—defining team structure, designing hiring processes, and establishing operational workflows.
• Facilitated hiring manager training on unconscious bias and cross-cultural awareness to bridge collaboration between India and Europe.
• HR operations transformation by implementing SAP SuccessFactors, streamlining the entire employee lifecycle from recruitment to offboarding.
• Promoted a people-first culture with a strong focus on engagement, inclusion, and workplace experience.
• Improved gender diversity at the Hub from 37% to 45% through inclusive hiring and retention initiatives.
• Reduced time-to-hire by 40% through process improvements and sourcing innovations.
• Designed and implemented performance management framework, with adherence improving from 50% to 87% over three years.

Led the brand launch in Northern India with a strong focus on embedding organizational culture and values. Oversaw the nationwide implementation of SAP SuccessFactors, aligning technology with HR strategy. Served as an HR generalist, managing end-to-end HR processes across recruitment, onboarding, performance, and employee engagement.

My career began straight from campus, offering me incredible learning opportunities over seven years across diverse roles such as SAP HR Lead, Regional HR Manager, and Training Manager. This period marked my first exposure to the intersection of HR and technology, leading me to earn a SAP HR certification and successfully drive a full-cycle SAP HR implementation—from planning to stabilization—for the organization.