Sarma Chillara has been elevated as the Group Head of Human Resources & Administration at ŠKODA AUTO Volkswagen India. Previously responsible for HR Operations, Sarma takes over the mandate for Human Resources & Administration for the Group in India. 

Gurpratap Boparai, Managing Director, ŠKODA AUTO Volkswagen India said, “I am delighted to have found a worthy successor for Jan Frydrych in Sarma Chillara. Sarma has an exceptional track record, a deep understanding of evolving HR trends and demonstrates an infectious passion and energy, that will continue to shape the culture and talent of the company. I would like to thank Jan Frydrych for his contribution in leading the Indian operations through a complex merger and embarking on a transformative digital journey for the HR function.”

Sarma replaces Jan Frydrych, as the latter takes over a new role at ŠKODA Headquarters as Head of Operative HR care, digitization and HR 4.0.

Sarma Chillara said, “Passionate and engaged employees are at the heart of any successful corporate strategy. I look forward to working closely with the leadership team and the larger family of employees to co-create an agile and productive work environment to steer the organization through the transformative process we have embarked on.” 

Sarma brings over 15 years of experience working across various roles within the HR domain. He joined Volkswagen Group in 2001 and has been associated with the Group for over 9 years in various leadership roles. He was previously associated with Citi, where he headed the HR department’s analytics unit, before moving to BCG. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce and an MBA in Human Resources from Welingkar Institute of Management.

In his new role, Sarma will be responsible for Human Resource strategy and execution, internal stakeholder management and talent management and will lead HR strategies for the Group within the framework of the India 2.0 project. With the company in the midst of its digital transformation journey, his specific focus  would be on enhanced employee experiences, diversity and inclusion and education and upskilling to make the organization future ready.