Google, Tata, Godrej, GE woo former women staff

NEW DELHI: Veena Verma has always been passionate about education of the underprivileged. She quit her job at Godrej, where she was working as a corporate human resource executive, to join a non-profit organisation. After her stint with the NGO, Verma got an unexpected offer — from Godrej itself.

Sabbaticals were once viewed as taboo for working women, and reduced their chances of getting back into the mainstream. No longer.

Companies such as Google India, GE, Axis Bank, Tata Group and Godrej Group are among those that are rehiring female executives.

Women like Verma, who want to return to their careers after a break, taken for fulfilment of personal aspirations or due to family responsibilities, may now find companies more sensitive.

Axis Bank, for example, recently launched “Re-connect”— a programme offering jobs to former women staff who have left the bank in last 10 years. “The initiative is a pure business decision based on professional values and merits of having women workforce,” said HR head Rajesh Dahiya. The bank has got 200 applications.

Google India is also re-hiring former women staff. “A break in a career should not mean the end,” said Sharad Goyal, head of people operations, Google India.

“Ex-employees are considered for rehire as long as the separation was not due to performance or ethical grounds,” said R Nanda, HR, head, Tata Chemicals.