From local roots to global reach: Kaushal Mendis’s HR leadership at Daraz

In the dynamic and ever-evolving world of e-commerce, where change is constant and the stakes are exceptionally high, Kaushal Mendis stands out as a transformative force in Human Resources. As the Chief Human Resources Officer for Daraz Sri Lanka and Pakistan, Kaushal merges over two decades of HR experience with a forward-thinking approach to people management.

His journey from his formative years in Colombo to his impactful leadership at Daraz demonstrates a blend of strategic insight, innovative thinking, and a commitment to fostering people-centric practices. In this feature, we explore his perspectives on the shifting landscape of HR, the challenges the industry faces, and the visionary strategies he employs to drive excellence and inspire his teams.

Life Before Daraz

Born and raised in Kalutara, Kaushal’s educational journey began with his primary education in his hometown. He then progressed to Ananda College, Colombo, from Grade 6 onwards.
His mother, a dedicated mathematics teacher, harbored hopes for him to pursue engineering, reflecting a typical parental aspiration for a stable and prestigious career. Rather than confining himself to the conventional path, he gravitated towards people and leadership, immersing himself in various extracurricular activities and spending more time on the grounds than in the classroom.

A period of self-discovery led him to ponder a crucial question: “Am I suited for a desk job, or do I thrive in environments where I interact with people?”

Kaushal chose to pursue a career in Human Resources, aligning his passion for leadership and people with his professional aspirations. His professional journey started at Diamond Cutters Ltd. in Panadura, where he took on his first leadership role in operational HR. Kaushal then progressed to Phoenix Industries as an Assistant Manager, followed by a challenging role at Brandix.

At Brandix, he managed HR in a male-dominated factory environment and was thrust into a significant leadership role when the HR Manager left shortly after his arrival. Reflecting on this period, Kaushal still marvels at how he managed the responsibilities at the young age of 23. His tenure at Brandix lasted until 2011, during which he also contributed to operations in Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

He then moved to Ceylon Tobacco Company (CTC), where he gained extensive experience in supply chain management and collective agreements, skills that would serve him well throughout his career. His next role was as National Resource Manager at DSL Xpress, a Hong Kong-led organization known for its learning-oriented and systematic approach.

Subsequent roles included heading HR at LAUGFS Holdings Limited, and directing people and culture at Pizza Hut Sri Lanka. Each of these roles added layers of expertise to his HR acumen, preparing him for his current position at Daraz Pakistan.

Kaushal’s educational qualifications further complemented his career trajectory. He pursued CIMA and earned a National Diploma in Human Resources Management from the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM). He completed his MBA in HRM from Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology (SMU) and later obtained a Master’s Degree in Labour Relations and Human Resources Management from the University of Colombo. Currently, he is working towards a Doctorate in Business Administration at the University of Kelaniya.

Motivation for joining Daraz

Two major inspirations guided Kaushal’s career decisions: the vision of the leadership at Daraz and his commitment to building local capacity. Since joining Daraz in January 2023, Kaushal has been steering the company’s HR strategy, aligning it with organizational goals to ensure growth and operational excellence.

Kaushal is particularly motivated by the dynamic and fast-paced nature of e-commerce. “E-commerce calls for assertive, prompt, and innovative employees who can meet the efficiency demands of this industry,” he says. His leadership at Daraz focuses on creating an environment where employees thrive, contributing to the company’s rapid growth and market leadership.

Kaushal’s approach to HR

Kaushal’s approach to HR is grounded in respect, empathy, and continuous learning. He believes that HR is a core function that drives organizational success by aligning people’s strategies with business goals. “HR professionals should be marketers,” he asserts.

“We need to create a brand for ourselves and our organizations, ensuring our strategies resonate emotionally with employees.”

However, Kaushal acknowledges that managing HR comes with its unique challenges. One significant challenge is retaining talent in a rapidly changing industry where flexibility and remote work are increasingly valued by younger employees. “In e-commerce, where speed and adaptability are crucial, retaining top talent involves offering meaningful work, growth opportunities, and a supportive work environment,” he notes.

Therefore, Kaushal emphasizes the importance of managing organizational culture, which he defines as fostering an environment where employees feel valued and supported. “Culture is about care,” he explains. “HR must drive the organization’s culture while supporting its strategic goals.”At Daraz, Kaushal has implemented strategies to align the company’s people strategy with its organizational strategy. His focus on adaptability is crucial in the diverse and evolving business landscape. “Pure love towards the work can bridge differences and drive positive change,” he says.

In conclusion, Kaushal advises HR professionals to:

1. Focus on creating a strong personal and professional brand for yourself and your company.
2. Embrace determination and courage to overcome obstacles. Instead of focusing on what you lack, value and make the most of your existing resources and opportunities.
3. Invest time and energy in building a strong network.
4. Continuously update your qualifications and skills to stay ahead and excel in your field.
5. Approach your work with respect, empathy, and integrity