Sonata Software Reappoints Balaji Kumar as CHRO to Lead Global Talent Strategy

Sonata Software has brought back Balaji Kumar as Chief Human Resources Officer, reinforcing its leadership team as the company continues to evolve in a fast-changing digital landscape.

Based out of Bengaluru, Kumar will lead the company’s global people and talent strategy, overseeing key areas such as workforce planning, capability building and organisational development.

This marks his second stint with Sonata Software, having previously served as CHRO from April 2022 to May 2025. His return highlights the company’s focus on continuity and experienced leadership as it aligns its people strategy with long-term business goals.

With over 30 years of experience, Kumar brings a diverse background spanning technology, financial services and manufacturing sectors. Before rejoining Sonata, he was CHRO at One97 Communications (Paytm), where he played a key role in managing HR strategy during a phase of organisational change.

Over the course of his career, he has held senior HR positions at leading organisations including L&T Infotech, Larsen & Toubro, Microsoft, Murugappa Group, Citibank, Coca-Cola and Unilever, building expertise in managing large-scale talent ecosystems across global and India-focused businesses.

His appointment comes at a time when IT services companies are navigating rapid shifts in talent dynamics, driven by digital transformation, automation and evolving client expectations. For Sonata, strengthening its HR leadership is crucial as it continues to position itself as a digital engineering and transformation partner.

In today’s competitive technology landscape, the role of HR leaders has expanded significantly, with a growing focus on workforce agility, reskilling and aligning talent strategies with business outcomes. Kumar’s experience is expected to play a key role in enabling these priorities.

Academically, he holds a master’s degree in Personnel Management and Industrial Relations from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, along with a law degree from Osmania University.

The move signals Sonata Software’s commitment to strengthening its people agenda, ensuring it remains well-equipped to attract, develop and retain talent while driving the next phase of growth.