From humble beginnings to HR leadership: Rajesh's journey at AtkinsRéalis.

Some careers follow a carefully planned path. Others evolve through unexpected opportunities, continuous learning, and the courage to embrace challenges. 

For Rajesh, Group Lead– HR Operations, the journey has been one of transformation, growing from humble beginnings to leading critical HR operations within a global organization. 

It's a story that reflects the power of resilience, opportunity, and a workplace culture that believes in people. 

Making an impact where it matters most  

For Rajesh, the most rewarding part of his role is making things easier for employees. 

One project he’s particularly proud of is the Self‑Certification Automation Project, which transformed a manual process into a smoother, more efficient experience for employees, managers, and HR teams. 

"What made me proud wasn't just delivering the project, it was seeing the positive impact it had on people across the organization," he says. 

That experience reinforced a simple belief: even small process improvements can make a big difference when people are at the center of them. 

Today, whether he's supporting employees through processes, improving operations, or mentoring his team, his goal remains the same, helping people navigate important moments with confidence and support. 

Growing through trust and opportunity 

Since joining AtkinsRéalis as an HR Associate in 2019, Rajat has only grown to lead teams, drive improvements, and mentoring others. 

A key trning point came when he was trusted to support both Leave of Absence and UK Leavers as an SME. Balancing both responsibilities challenged him to grow, strengthening his leadership, stakeholder management, and problem‑solving skills. 

The confidence that leaders and colleagues placed in me made me feel valued, he says. 

That trust, combined with mentorship, stretch opportunities, and support for his PGCHRM program at XLRI, helped shape him into a more strategic and innovative professional. 

The investment in my development strengthened my HR expertise, confidence, and leadership capabilities. 

A career without boundaries 

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of his journey is that it wasn't the career he originally expected to build. 

"My professional journey began in office administration and later moved into sales and customer support roles," he says. "I never imagined I would build a career in HR, let alone lead teams and projects in a global organization." 

What began as a job soon became a passion, and AtkinsRéalis provided the opportunities needed to transform that passion into a meaningful and rewarding career. 

Over the years, he has expanded his expertise across multiple HR functions, including Leave of Absence, Leavers, Job Data Changes, Background Verification, Redundancy and TUPE 

Each experience broadened his perspective, strengthened his capabilities, and prepared him for the next stage of growth. 

Thriving together 

For Rajesh, AtkinsRéalis stands out for its culture of collaboration and support. 

"I've always been able to rely on my leadership team for guidance and encouragement," he says. 

That experience has shaped his leadership approach: creating an environment where people feel supported, empowered, and given opportunities to grow. 

A message for future talent 

For anyone wondering whether they belong at AtkinsRéalis, he says, “Your background does not define your potential." 

"I come from a small village and completed my schooling in Kannada medium. When I first arrived in Bengaluru, speaking English confidently was a challenge. Today, I lead HR operations in a global organization." 

His journey is proof that growth isn't determined by where you start, it's determined by your willingness to learn, adapt, and embrace opportunities. 

"AtkinsRéalis values capability, commitment, and a desire to grow. If you're willing to learn and challenge yourself, you'll find opportunities here." 

Growth has no boundaries 

For him, AtkinsRéalis has been more than a workplace. It has been a place where continuous learning, resilience, and opportunity came together to transform potential into achievement. 

And perhaps that's the most powerful message of all: when people are supported, trusted, and empowered to grow, there truly are no boundaries to what they can achieve. 

If you're looking for a place where you can learn, grow, and make a meaningful impact, explore opportunities at AtkinsRéalis and start your own journey with us.