Understanding Global Mobility: Insights from Pratik Karlekar of Tech Mahindra on Corporate Client Perspectives
In the fifth episode of the “xpath.Nexus” series, we delve into the intricacies of global mobility with Pratik Karlekar, the Head of UK and Europe Immigration at Tech Mahindra. This episode, hosted by Madalina Andrei from xpath.global, provides valuable insights into the global mobility sector, focusing on corporate client perspectives and emerging trends. Here’s a comprehensive summary of the key points discussed.
The xpath.Nexus series aims to be a premier platform for sharing best practices and industry insights in global mobility. Hosted by Madalina Andrei, a former global mobility coordinator turned service provider relationship manager, this series is dedicated to fostering industry learning and collaboration. Episode 5 is particularly significant as it shifts focus to understanding corporate client perspectives in global mobility.
Pratik Karlekar, a leading figure in global mobility, manages Tech Mahindra’s immigration operations across the UK and Europe. With extensive experience in service provider relations, vendor performance, and mobility cost efficiencies, Karlekar brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion. Tech Mahindra, recognized for its innovative HR technology and as one of India’s top employers, benefits from Karlekar’s strategic approach to global mobility.
Karlekar discusses the current challenges in global mobility, highlighting the industry’s fragmentation. He stresses the importance of a holistic approach that integrates various aspects such as immigration, taxation, social security, and labor law. Addressing these “knowledge fractures” can significantly enhance operational efficiency and compliance. This comprehensive approach is essential for overcoming the challenges posed by fragmented services and ensuring smooth global mobility processes.
The global mobility landscape is evolving, particularly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Karlekar observes a trend towards reduced short-term and business travel, with an increased reliance on virtual meetings and digital tools. This shift reflects broader changes in how businesses approach travel and remote work. Looking ahead, there is potential for global mobility to become a specialized academic field, offering formal education and training to meet the industry’s evolving needs.
According to Karlekar, the ideal global mobility professional should excel in communication, possess extensive field experience, and have a deep understanding of clients’ business models. Essential traits include the ability to provide clear, actionable solutions, maintain a comprehensive view of compliance and efficiency, and offer multiple options to address client needs. These attributes ensure that professionals can effectively manage the complexities of global mobility and deliver high-quality service.
The discussion with Pratik Karlekar sheds light on the dynamic nature of global mobility and the critical need for a unified approach to managing international employee movements. As the industry continues to adapt to new challenges and opportunities, understanding these insights can help organizations and professionals navigate the evolving landscape of global mobility.
For more insights on global mobility and industry best practices, stay tuned to the xpath.Nexus series and explore further discussions with leading professionals in the field.
To learn more about xpath.global’s global mobility management system, book a meeting here: Book a demo – Human Resource Professionals – xpath.global
