In the traditionally male-dominated world of mining and heavy industry, a quiet yet powerful revolution is underway. At the forefront of this transformation is Priyadarshini Gaddam, Director (Personnel) at NMDC—India’s largest iron ore producer. In an exclusive conversation with ETHRWorld, Gaddam shared insights into her trailblazing leadership journey, the evolving role of women in industrial sectors, and the importance of purpose-led HR practices in shaping the future of work.
Redefining Leadership in Rugged Terrains
Heavy industries like mining, manufacturing, and engineering have long been considered “hard hat” domains, often synonymous with physical endurance, isolation, and harsh environments. But Gaddam is part of a growing movement proving that leadership is not about muscle—it’s about mindset, vision, and people-first strategies.
Her leadership path, rooted in resilience and a deep understanding of human capital, reflects a larger trend across India’s industrial landscape: the growing need for inclusive, agile, and culturally progressive workplaces. According to Gaddam, the challenge lies not only in diversifying the workforce but in creating systems that retain and grow diverse talent, especially in operational and remote roles.
The Shift Toward Purpose-Driven HR
For Gaddam, HR is not just a support function—it’s a strategic engine of transformation. At NMDC, she has championed policies that focus on inclusion, learning, and digital readiness, aligning people practices with the company’s long-term vision.
“In a rapidly changing industrial world, workforce expectations are shifting,” she noted. “Employees today seek more than a paycheck—they seek purpose, balance, and growth.”
This belief has led to the rollout of new learning platforms, mentorship programs for women, and initiatives that help employees adapt to automation and Industry 4.0 technologies. Gaddam emphasizes that future-proofing organisations means equipping people with the tools to navigate uncertainty with confidence.
Women in Industry: More Than a Seat at the Table
Gaddam’s presence in a senior leadership role is symbolic of the larger progress being made—but she is quick to point out that the journey is far from over. She believes that the real win comes when inclusion becomes systemic, not tokenistic.
She has actively worked on policies that encourage gender diversity in core roles, bringing more women into mines, operations, and field management positions. Through initiatives like flexible work models, skill-building programs, and leadership training, Gaddam is focused on making industrial work a sustainable and aspirational career path for women.
Driving Culture Change in Legacy Organisations
Transforming a legacy organisation like NMDC requires more than policy changes. It demands a culture shift—one that embraces collaboration, empathy, and continuous learning.
Gaddam has been instrumental in leading this cultural transition. By breaking down silos, promoting transparent communication, and integrating tech-savvy practices, she has helped redefine how success and leadership are measured across the company.
Her approach is rooted in compassionate leadership—a style that balances performance with empathy and nurtures the emotional well-being of employees. This human-centered lens has helped NMDC navigate the post-pandemic workplace landscape with confidence and clarity.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Industrial Work
Gaddam believes that the industrial sector is at a turning point. With digital transformation, sustainability mandates, and changing generational values shaping the future, HR leaders must become catalysts for meaningful change.
“Tomorrow’s industry leaders will be those who combine technical excellence with emotional intelligence and social impact,” she said. “We must not only build systems but also build belief.”
Under her leadership, NMDC is becoming a model for how legacy industries can stay relevant—not by clinging to tradition, but by embracing people-first innovation.
In a world where industrial sectors are often slow to change, Priyadarshini Gaddam stands out as a visionary force, breaking barriers and building futures with every step. Her journey is not just about personal success—it’s about creating a blueprint for inclusive leadership that the next generation can follow.
