Architect of An Environment Where Talent Can Flow & Flourish
Sharon Kern
Director- People & Culture
Mad Mobile Lk
Great HR leaders understand that managing people is not just about setting policies but nurturing healthy relationships. Sharon Kern, Director of People & Culture at Mad Mobile LK, proves this philosophy right by creating environments where people can dream big and work wholeheartedly to achieve them. In her career, which spans roles at Exilesoft, WSO2, Embla Software Innovation and ConceptVines, Sharon has been guided by the principle that–
“The strength of any company lies in the happiness of its people.”
From leading HR in top IT companies in Sri Lanka to serving as a General Council Member at SLASSCOM and heading its HR Forum, Sharon has been a driving force behind groundbreaking discussions on hybrid work models and employee engagement. Through each phase of her career, she has remained focused on one goal: creating cultures where talent and innovation flourish. Recently, TradeFlock had the pleasure of interviewing Sharon for the Best HR Leaders from Asia 2024 series. Her insights and vision for the future of HR were nothing short of inspiring. Continue reading as we dive deeper into her strategies and achievements, which set her apart among the best HR leaders.
What pivotal moment steered you toward HR leadership?
My career began as a customer support executive, which gave me valuable insight into how essential human connection is in the workplace. This was the moment I realised my passion for connecting people went beyond customer service—it was about building relationships and helping individuals grow. That’s what led me to transition into HR. From there, my dedication, consistency, and passion for this field propelled me forward.
Share a defining challenge in your HR career and its biggest lesson.
Every leader’s journey is shaped by challenges, but it’s how you navigate them that defines your growth. In my role, I’ve faced a variety of obstacles—talent acquisition, retention, and managing large-scale organisational change, to name a few. However, one of the most defining challenges has been balancing mental health and well-being in the workplace, especially during times of transformation.
“Success in HR isn't just about managing processes; it's about creating an environment where people and organisations can grow together in harmony.”
Through these experiences, the greatest lesson I’ve learned is the importance of truly understanding people. Employees are complex, each with their perceptions and opinions, and as HR professionals, we must keep our finger on the organisation’s pulse. This requires patience and empathy while always striving to align individual needs with business goals.
What’s your approach to managing culturally diverse teams in Asia?
Managing diverse teams across different cultural contexts requires more than just awareness—it’s about creating an environment where everyone’s unique perspectives are embraced. From the very start, I prioritise setting expectations through cultural awareness training, ensuring that employees understand and respect the differences they will encounter. This approach helps prevent potential misunderstandings and fosters a more inclusive workplace. Communication styles are another key consideration when working with diverse teams. While some cultures favour direct communication, others are more subtle, so it’s essential to tailor our approach based on these preferences. Empowering local leaders who truly understand the cultural dynamics of their region has proven to be an effective strategy, as they can better guide their teams through nuanced challenges. Involving diverse team members in decision-making also ensures that every voice is heard, enriching the outcomes with various perspectives.
In a global team, how do you embrace and celebrate cultural diversity?
Cultural differences in a multinational workforce are indeed a big challenge, but I see it as an opportunity to create a truly global, inclusive environment. My go-to strategies start with cultural awareness training to educate employees on the beauty of diversity, paired with inclusive leadership that encourages respect for every perspective. I also adapt global policies to fit local cultures, celebrate international holidays and events, and build diverse teams that thrive on cross-cultural learning.I’ve continued to thrive in HR, knowing that I can make a meaningful impact on people and organisations by fostering an environment where everyone can succeed.
How do you stay ahead in identifying and retaining top talent in tech?
Retention is a buzzword in HR, and it’s a challenge faced by professionals worldwide. I focus on succession planning to ensure business continuity, while recognizing that employees have their own career aspirations and may eventually move on. The key is creating an environment that encourages them to stay. People have different motivations— whether it’s career growth, compensation, leadership, or the opportunities available to them. My approach is to understand these needs and foster a culture that supports them, ensuring employees feel valued and connected to the company’s long-term vision.
How do you ensure your team is ready for future leadership roles?
Preparing future leaders starts with creating an environment where growth is integral to everyday work. I focus on building a feedbackrich culture, utilising both constructive feedback and 360-degree assessments to provide a comprehensive view of strengths and areas for improvement. Leadership training programs, seminars, and workshops further equip team members with the skills they need to advance. The most important aspect is giving team members ownership of projects and holding them accountable for results. This builds confidence and helps them develop the leadership qualities necessary for future roles.
What’s your secret to personal success and fulfilment beyond work?
Success, for me, begins with self-confidence. It’s been the driving force behind my journey in HR and every other aspect of my life. Beyond the workplace, I find fulfilment in nurturing that confidence, staying authentic, and striving to balance personal growth and professional ambitions.
