The Evolution of Global Capability Centres: Insights from Meenakshi Thakar of TRANSEARCH India

In an exclusive interview with CXOToday, Meenakshi Thakar, Partner at TRANSEARCH India, shared her insights on the transformative journey of Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in India. With a focus on professional services, BPO, and analytics, Thakar’s observations shed light on the significant shifts in the GCC sector, the evolving landscape of talent recruitment, and the impact of technological advancements on leadership hiring and talent management.

Significant Shifts in the GCC Sector

Over the past few years, the GCC landscape in India has undergone a remarkable transformation. Initially established as cost-saving hubs for multinational companies, GCCs have evolved into strategic assets that drive innovation and digital transformation. Thakar notes that this shift has been characterized by a transition from being mere cost centers to becoming integral partners in essential business functions such as product development, research and development (R&D), and decision-making.

The adoption of advanced technologies has been a key driver of this change. Tools like generative AI, machine learning, cloud computing, and robotic process automation have not only enhanced operational efficiency but have also positioned GCCs as centers of excellence in digital transformation. This evolution has redefined the perception of GCCs within global enterprises, highlighting their role in creating substantial business value.

Moreover, the talent landscape within GCCs is also evolving. As the demand for specialized skills in areas like AI, cybersecurity, and data science grows, there is an increasing emphasis on continuous learning and upskilling. The rise of hybrid and remote work models has further contributed to attracting and retaining top talent, ensuring that GCCs remain at the forefront of innovation.

Talent Recruitment in the GCC Sector

With the growing presence of GCCs in India, the competition for top talent has intensified. According to Thakar, the number of GCCs in India has surged by 31% from 2023 to 2024, reaching nearly 2,100 centers. To sustain this growth, GCCs are adopting a Workforce Strategy Model that focuses on four key methods:

1. Build: Hiring and developing talent from reputed institutes.
2. Bridge: Upskilling employees to close skill gaps.
3. Buy: Recruiting senior-level talent for niche roles in emerging technologies.
4. Borrow: Leveraging external partnerships for short-term projects.

To address the talent shortage, many GCCs are investing in in-house training programs and forming partnerships with finishing schools to cultivate specialists for critical roles. This proactive approach not only helps in bridging skill gaps but also ensures that GCCs remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

Staying Ahead in Leadership Hiring and Talent Management

Thakar emphasizes that GCCs effectively mirror the culture and work environment of their parent companies, which fosters productivity and engagement. To excel in leadership hiring and talent management, businesses should focus on several key areas:

• Proactive Leadership Hiring: Seeking adaptable leaders skilled in emerging technologies and building diverse leadership teams to drive innovation.
• Strategic Talent Management: Offering continuous learning and development opportunities, enhancing employee experience to boost retention, and leveraging data-driven approaches for informed decision-making.
• Employer Branding: Crafting a compelling Employer Value Proposition (EVP) that highlights corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability efforts.
• Cross-Cultural Competence: Promoting collaboration within global teams to effectively integrate diverse talent.

By prioritizing these areas, businesses can create a robust framework for leadership hiring and talent management that aligns with their strategic goals.

The Impact of Technological Advancements

Technological advancements have fundamentally reshaped the GCC industry, particularly in the post-2020 era. The digital revolution has accelerated remote work capabilities, transforming GCCs into strategic transformation hubs closely aligned with enterprise strategies. Thakar notes that this shift is not merely about technology; it’s about harnessing progress to empower organizations and drive global innovation.

The integration of digital ecosystems within GCCs has revolutionized workflows, enhancing efficiency and fostering stronger collaboration with parent companies, clients, and partners. By embracing cutting-edge technologies like AI, edge computing, and synthetic biology, GCCs are streamlining service delivery and positioning themselves as leaders in research and development.

However, these technological strides also present challenges. The rapid pace of change has created a talent shortage, particularly in specialized areas like AI and cybersecurity. Additionally, navigating complex global data protection regulations remains a critical challenge that organizations must address.

Emerging Trends in Leadership Hiring and Talent Management

As the business environment continues to evolve, Thakar anticipates significant shifts in leadership hiring and talent management. The demand for leaders who can navigate complexity and drive organizational growth is intensifying, particularly in areas such as digital transformation, data-driven decision-making, and diversity.

Companies are recognizing that effective leadership today requires more than just experience; it demands adaptability, cross-functional expertise, and the ability to lead through change. Talent management strategies are increasingly focused on identifying and nurturing leaders who can manage current challenges while anticipating future opportunities.

This shift is driving organizations to rethink their approach to leadership development, emphasizing the creation of agile, inclusive, and innovative leadership teams capable of thriving in a rapidly changing landscape.

Conclusion

The insights shared by Meenakshi Thakar highlight the dynamic evolution of GCCs in India, reflecting their journey from cost-saving centers to strategic enablers of business growth and innovation. As the sector continues to evolve, Indian GCCs are poised to enhance their capabilities, embrace new technologies, and expand their roles in the global marketplace, solidifying India’s position as a leading destination for global business operations. By focusing on talent recruitment, leadership hiring, and technological advancements, GCCs can navigate the complexities of the modern business landscape and drive sustainable growth.