meet the facilitator: Hitesh Chandra
Passionate HR Professional with 14 Years of Experience
I bring a wealth of experience in Human Resources Management, boasting a 14-year journey dedicated to People Management and Training. Self-motivation and unwavering enthusiasm drive my work, making me a reliable and effective contributor. Collaborative problem-solving is my forte, where my excellent communication and active listening skills prove invaluable.
I am known for my meticulous organization and a keen eye for detail, ensuring that all my work aligns with the right standards and adheres to the correct policies and procedures, particularly in HR-related matters.
My Key Skills in HRM
- Staffing and Recruitment: Proficient in talent acquisition and recruitment strategies.
- Performance Management: Skilled in optimizing employee performance and development.
- People Management: Experienced in fostering a productive and engaged workforce.
- Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional ability to build strong working relationships.
- Employment Laws: In-depth knowledge of employment regulations and compliance.
- Immigration Law: Proficient in navigating immigration-related matters.
- Conflict Management: Adept at resolving workplace conflicts effectively.
- Public Speaking: Strong presentation and communication skills.
- Communication and Organizational Skills: Excellent at conveying ideas and maintaining order.
- Prioritization and Time Management: Expertise in managing tasks efficiently and meeting deadlines.
My Educational Achievements
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Dates: 2019 – 2021
Institution: University of the South Pacific (USP)
Postgraduate in General Management
Dates: 2012
Institution: University of the South Pacific (USP)
Postgraduate in Human Resource Management
Date: 2011
Institution: University of the South Pacific (USP)
Double Degree in Management and Public Administration, and Information System
Dates: 2005 - 2007
Institution: University of the South Pacific (USP)
My Work Experience
SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT & ACCOMPLISHMENTS
New Zealand Immigration
- Acting Visa Operations Manager: Served as Acting Visa Operations Manager from December to January 2022 and again from April to May 2021, showcasing a strong track record in immigration management.
- Mana Aki Program Implementation: Played a pivotal role in implementing the Mana Aki Program, a testament to a commitment to upholding the core values of Immigration New Zealand (INZ).
Save the Children Fiji
- Rejuvenating Save the Children Fiji: Joined Save the Children Fiji (SCF) during a significant restructuring phase, embarking on a mission to revitalize its operations and human resources management.
- Inaugural HR Policies and Procedures: Took on the critical responsibility of drafting the organization's first-ever HR Policies and Procedures for Save the Children Fiji, a milestone achievement.
- Board Presentation: Presented the meticulously crafted HR policies and procedures to the Board, seeking approval and endorsement, a testament to a commitment to industry-best practices in HR management.
Pacific Centrecom Fiji Limited
- Setting up Pacific Centrecom Fiji Limited: Played a pivotal role in establishing Pacific Centrecom Fiji Limited in the Fiji market, which was a joint venture business of Fiji Airways. As the first employee, I contributed significantly to its foundation.
- Company Policies and Procedures Manual: Drafted the Company Policies and Procedures Manual for Pacific Centrecom Fiji Limited, presenting it for approval and endorsement by the Board.
- Innovative Programs: Introduced impactful initiatives such as Sick Leave encashment, Wellness Programs, and Corporate Social Responsibility endeavors.
- HR Survey and Grading Bands: Conducted an HR survey to evaluate wage satisfaction, providing data that informed the development of grading bands for future increments, a crucial step for workforce satisfaction.
- OHS Module Training: Trained Pacific Centrecom Fiji Limited staff in Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Module 1 & 2 in multiple instances, reinforcing a culture of safety and compliance.
- OHS and LMCCC Committee Formation: Established the first OHS and Labour Market Consultative Council (LMCCC) committee for Pacific Centrecom Fiji Limited, promoting workplace well-being and compliance.
- Project Coordinator of PayGlobal Software: Successfully coordinated the implementation of PayGlobal software for HR and Payroll, streamlining operations.
- Employee Handbook Creation: Authored the Employee Handbook for Pacific Centrecom Fiji Limited, providing employees with essential guidelines.
- Disaster Recovery Plan Success: Executed a comprehensive Disaster Recovery Plan during Cyclone Winston, ensuring the safety of 25 staff members and the uninterrupted service to Fiji Airways customers during the crisis.
- Global Recruitment Forums: Represented Pacific Centrecom Fiji Limited at recruitment forums at the University of Singapore (NUS) in Singapore and Hong Kong Polytechnic University in Hong Kong, expanding business exposure.
- Profit Milestone: Contributed to Pacific Centrecom Fiji Limited achieving a record-breaking profit of 1.1 million in 2017 within only four years of operations in Fiji.
- Acting Operation Manager: Undertook the role of Acting Operation Manager from November 2017 to February 2018, demonstrating leadership and management skills.
- Diverse Recruitment: Successfully recruited local Chinese, Japanese, and French speakers for Pacific Centrecom Fiji Limited in line with business and client requirements and deadlines.
- FNU Grant Levy Doubling: Doubled the FNU Grant Levy, elevating it from $4,447.40 to $8,528.70 between 2017 and 2018.
- Balance Score System Development: Designed a balanced score system for Centrecom, enhancing performance measurement and management.
- Business Continuity During COVID-19: Effectively implemented and executed a Business Continuity Plan for COVID-19 as Business Continuity Manager during the global outbreak, ensuring seamless operations.
- Disaster Recovery and Reporting: Activated Disaster Recovery (DR) and expertly coordinated the overall Disaster Recovery Plan, providing hourly reports to management throughout the DR activation.
This rich portfolio of accomplishments underscores my expertise and contributions to the success and growth of Pacific Centrecom Fiji Limited.
Vinod Patel & Company Limited
- ER Promulgation Implementation: As a pivotal member of Vinod Patel since February 2008, I played a crucial role in ensuring the seamless implementation and adoption of the Employment Relations Promulgation. I effectively reviewed HR policies, integrating new regulations, and facilitated communication of these changes across all branches of Vinod Patel, aligning the organization with the ER Promulgation which came into effect on 2nd April 2008.
- PayGlobal (HRIS) Project Coordination: In the capacity of project coordinator for PayGlobal, an HR Information System (HRIS), I ensured that all HR modules were in compliance with the Employment Relations Promulgation. The software was successfully leveraged for HR reporting, contributing to operational efficiency.
- HR Policy Review and Handbook Creation: I conducted a comprehensive review of HR policies, leading to the creation of Vinod Patel's official HR Employee Handbook, a significant milestone for the organization.
- OHS Management System Implementation: I spearheaded the successful implementation of the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) management system at Vinod Patel, prioritizing employee safety and compliance.
- Collaboration with Hay Group: I collaborated with the renowned Hay Group and its consultants for a comprehensive salary review of Vinod Patel, ensuring competitive compensation structures and equity.
- Job Evaluation and Job Descriptions: I conducted a comprehensive job evaluation exercise and drafted updated job descriptions for all roles within the organization. This process contributed to defining clear role responsibilities and enhancing organizational clarity.
My contributions at Vinod Patel & Company Limited demonstrate a commitment to HR excellence and alignment with legal regulations, fostering an environment of compliance and efficiency.
More About Hitesh Chandra
Other Achievements
- Justice of Peace: I hold the esteemed position of Justice of the Peace, demonstrating a commitment to upholding justice and legal principles.
- Leadership Role at USP Pacific TAFE: I serve as the Chairperson of the Programme Advisory Committee (PAC) for the Diploma in Human Resource Management (DHRM) at the University of the South Pacific's Pacific Technical and Further Education (USP Pacific TAFE), contributing to educational excellence.
- Outstanding Graduate: I earned recognition as an Outstanding Graduate in Certificate 3 in Community Development from USP, underscoring my dedication to community advancement.
- Fiji Human Resources Award Evaluator: I had the privilege of evaluating the Fiji Human Resources Award for the 2018/2019 cycle, contributing to recognizing excellence in HR practices.
- FHRI Human Resource Practitioner Awards: I received the prestigious Human Resource Practitioner Award during the inaugural ceremony hosted by the Fiji Human Resources Institute (FHRI) in 2011.
- Fiji Business Excellence Awards Evaluator: I participated as an evaluator for the 2017 Fiji Business Excellence Awards, contributing to identifying and celebrating business excellence.
- Training and OHS Accreditation: I am a Registered and Accredited Training Instructor with Fiji National University, an Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Accredited Trainer for the National OHS Service of the Ministry of Employment, Productivity & Industrial Relations in Fiji, and a Consultant Facilitator for USP TAFE in Human Resource Management (HRM).
- Leadership Fiji Fellowship: I was honored with a Certificate of Fellowship for Leadership FIJI Program, recognizing my outstanding contributions to community initiatives.
- Youth Fiji Involvement: As a Trustee and Board member of Youth Fiji, I actively participate in initiatives that empower and support the youth.
- National Volunteer Recognition: My volunteer efforts were acknowledged when I was named Volunteer of the Year 2015 by the National Volunteer Steering Committee.
- Rotary Club Leadership: I served as President of the Rotary Club of Suva North for the 2018/2019 and 2019-2020 terms, contributing to the club's mission of community service.
- Youth Empowerment Webinar: I conducted an online webinar for Youth Fiji, addressing the vital topic of "Reinvigorating Job Search Techniques," sharing valuable insights to empower the youth in their career journeys.
Professional Memberships
- Member of Rotary Club of Suva North: Active participation in the Rotary Club of Suva North.
- Member of Rotary “e club” of Fiji: Involvement with the Rotary "e club" of Fiji.
- External Member of College of Health, Research and Ethics Committee of FNU: Contributing as an external member to the College of Health, Research, and Ethics Committee at FNU.
- Community Member of Sinu Millennium Festival: Actively engaging with the Sinu Millennium Festival community.
- Professional Member of Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation (FCEF): Membership in the Fiji Commerce & Employers Federation.
- Professional Member of Fiji Human Resource Institute (FHRI): Affiliation with the Fiji Human Resource Institute.
- Professional Member of Australian Human Resource Institute (AHRI): Membership in the Australian Human Resource Institute.
- Member of Prevention of Blindness Committee: Participation in the Prevention of Blindness Committee.
- Mentor and Ambassador of Youth Fiji: Fulfilling a role as a mentor and ambassador for Youth Fiji.
- Member and Mentor of Climate Science Fiji: Membership in and mentoring for Climate Science Fiji.
- Treasurer of Kabir Panth Maha Sammlean (Religious NGO): Serving as the treasurer for Kabir Panth Maha Sammlean, a religious NGO.
- Global Peace Ambassador for the years 2021–2023 under the UN Sustainable Development Goals: Acknowledging the role as a Global Peace Ambassador, working towards UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Certifications
2023
- ISO 45001: 2018 Health & Safety Training Management Perspective: Demonstrating proficiency in health and safety training management from a global perspective.
- Certificate 3 in Community Development (USP): Highlighting expertise in community development from the University of the South Pacific.
- International Skills Trainer Course Certificate (APTC): Acknowledging advanced training skills.
- Certificate of Participation for attending Mediation/Employment Grievance and Labour Enforcement: Recognizing participation in mediation, employment grievance, and labor enforcement.
2019
- Cambridge English Level 2 Certificate in ESOL International Advanced English: Showcasing language proficiency.
- National Trainers Convention 2019 – Navigating Transformation through Training: Attending a vital training industry convention.
- Certificate of Appreciation – 2019 Fiji Human Resources Evaluator: Acknowledging contributions as an evaluator in the field of HR.
- National Convention on Occupational Health and Safety 2019: Participation in a significant OHS event.
2018
- National Trainers Convention 2018 – Focused Training – The Global Scope: Attending a convention highlighting global training perspectives.
2017
- Certificate of Appreciation – Fiji Human Resources Awards Evaluator: Acknowledging contributions as an evaluator in the field of HR.
- Innovate – Empower – Global Perspective Training: Embracing innovation and empowerment in a global context.
- Certificate of Participation - Employee Relations Workshop (ERP, LMCC, OHS, HR Policies, SOPs, Law, and People): Active participation in HR-related workshops.
- Certificate of Participation in Employment Relations Accredited Training Course Labor Management Consultation & Cooperation Committee (LMCCC) members: Recognizing participation in accredited training courses.
2016
- Certificate in Graphic Designing: Proficiency in graphic design.
2015
- Certificate of Participation of Leadership Fiji Alumni Summit: Recognition for participation in a leadership-focused summit.
- Certificate of Membership of Rotary Club of Suva North: Membership acknowledgment in the Rotary Club.
2012
- Certificate of participant for the Fiji Human Resource Institute 6th National Convention 2012 – HR empowering the Nation: Participation in a significant HR convention.
2011
- Certificate of Completion in Supervisory Development: Achievement in supervisory development training.
- Training Certificate of Participation for Fire Warden Course: Acknowledging participation in fire warden training.
- Certificate of Completion Knowledge Management: Recognizing expertise in knowledge management.
2010
- Certificate of Completion of Basic First Aid Course: Proficiency in basic first aid.
- Certificate of Participation – “What is Risk Management” Training Course Certificate of Completion in Leading and Managing People: Acknowledging expertise in risk management, leadership, and people management.
- Certificate of Completion in Finance For Managers Certificate of Attainment in Human Resource Training: Demonstrating proficiency in finance for managers and HR training.
2009
- Certificate in Human Resource Negotiation Skill: Proficiency in HR negotiation.
Certificate of Completion of Occupational Health & Safety
- Module 1 & 2 - Safety for Representatives and Committee Members: Proficiency in ensuring safety for representatives and committee members.
- Module 3 - Effective OHS Management for General Workplace Conditions: Demonstrating expertise in the effective management of OHS in general workplace conditions.
- Module 4 - Chemical Management System Plus, Safe Operation Procedures (SOP): Proficiency in managing chemical systems and implementing safe operation procedures.
- Module 5 - OHS Auditing Training – Competency Based (Integrated Safety Map/AS18001/AS4801): Expertise in conducting competency-based OHS audits, aligned with integrated safety standards.
- Module 6 - Drafting, Developing, and Implementing an OHS Management System: Proficiency in creating, developing, and implementing effective OHS management systems.
- Module 7 - OHS Audit Implementations and Implications Achievement: Mastery in implementing OHS audits and understanding their implications.
Certificate of Completion of Trainers of Trainers Program (TOT)
- Certificate of Completion in Training of Trainers (TOT) Module I (Instructional Skills Workshop): Proficiency in instructional skills for effective training.
- Certificate of Completion in Training of Trainers (TOT) Module II (Systematic Approach to Training): Expertise in applying a systematic approach to training.
- Certificate of Completion in Training of Trainers (TOT) Module III (Training Systems in Fiji): Mastery in understanding training systems in Fiji.
- Training of Trainers - Training of Trainers Module IV: Evaluation of Training: Proficiency in evaluating training programs effectively.
Achievement in Human Resource Training Course for Pay Global Software
- Phase 1: Induction, Position Management, Contract Management, Termination: Mastery in HR training covering induction, position management, contract management, and termination.
- Phase 2: Recruitment, OHS, Dispute Management: Expertise in HR training related to recruitment, OHS, and dispute management.
- Phase 3: Training & Development, Performance Management: Proficiency in HR training focusing on training and development and performance management.
- Refresher Training for PayGlobal for Implementation for Pacific Centrecom Fiji Limited: Proven ability to provide refresher training for the implementation of PayGlobal software at Pacific Centrecom Fiji Limited.