In today’s fast-evolving corporate world, where systems often take precedence over sentiments, Mr. Sanal Pillai stands out as a human-first HR professional who brings empathy, connection, and purpose back into Human Resources. With over 18 years of rich experience across diverse industries, he has consistently demonstrated that HR is not just about policies and procedures—it’s about people, their journeys, and their growth.
Currently serving as Assistant General Manager – Human Resources at Ishan Technologies, Mr. Pillai has managed the complete employee lifecycle with passion and precision. From Talent Acquisition, HR Operations, Training & Development, to Strategic HR Planning, he has played pivotal roles across sectors including recruitment & consulting, water & wastewater management, automobile, ports, and ICT & telecommunications.
What sets Mr. Pillai apart is his deeply held belief that “a Human Resource is a Human first, not just an employee.” This philosophy guides his approach to maintaining meaningful connections even after an employee exits an organization—treating them as lasting brand ambassadors and part of a larger organizational family.
Throughout his career, Mr. Pillai has not only earned the respect of his peers but also a string of accolades. He has been recognized within his organizations with awards such as:
Consistent Performance & Best Client Handling
Special Contribution Award in Human Resource
Outstanding Performance of the Year
Emerging Manager Award
Significant Contribution in Human Resource Department
Beyond organizational recognition, his efforts have also been acknowledged by external platforms through awards like:
City Excellence Award in Human Resources & Operations
National Excellence Award in Human Resources – Recruitment & Development
A qualified MBA professional, Mr. Pillai continuously upgrades his expertise through certifications in various HR domains, staying ahead in a rapidly evolving field. His LinkedIn profile, with over 31,000 followers and numerous heartfelt recommendations from leaders, colleagues, and mentees, is a testament to the deep impact he has made within the HR community.
Outside of his professional journey, Mr. Pillai is passionate about bikes, pets, and plantation—reflecting his grounded and nurturing personality.He lives by the powerful mantra:
Limits, limit us if we allow them to limit us.
A principle that defines his career—bold, compassionate, and inspiring.
In every sense, Mr. Sanal Pillai is not just a seasoned HR professional—he is a people-first leader and a true torchbearer for the future of Human Resources.
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