Sirisha Palepu

About Sirisha Palepu

With over two decades of experience, I am an HR leader with a passion for social impact. I\'ve partnered with diverse organizations—from global corporations and GCCs to startups and social enterprises—to build inclusive cultures and develop talent. My expertise lies in designing strategies that drive business growth while advancing CSR and social impact goals.My working style is anchored in curiosity, adaptability, and connecting people and purpose. A lifelong learner, I\'ve recently completed a Women on Boards certification and the Indian Leaders for Social Change Program, which have strengthened my board readiness and ecosystem impact.I would like to continue this journey by exploring opportunities in HR leadership, CSR/social impact consulting, and board roles where I can contribute to a purpose-driven team. Outside of work, I believe great cultures are shaped by lived experiences, and I recharge through travel and reading.

Experience

1. Corporate Social Responsibilty Leadership

   Cisco

   Oct 2019 — Present · Bengaluru, IN

   CSR Board Leadership: Provide strategic review and oversight of Cisco’s flagship Cash Grants Program—supporting tech-enabled solutions and ensuring alignment with Cisco’s goal of positively impacting 50 million lives by 2025.HR Mentorship for Social Impact: Mentor social enterprises and NGOs across agriculture, education, climate, and livelihoods—advising on impact measurement, talent strategies, and scalable operating models to strengthen their effectiveness.Integrating CSR & HR for Inclusive Growth: Champion the integration of CSR and HR by co-creating frameworks that link social innovation with employee growth and community impact.

Education

• Indian Institute of Management Bangalore

  Tanmatra - Leadership Program

  2016 — 2016

• ILSS - India Leaders for Social Sector

  ILSS Leadership Program , Leadership in the Social Development Sector

• Avinashilingam Deemed University

  MBA, Human Resources

  1996 — 1998

• Meenakshi College ( Madras University)

  B.Com, Commerce

  1993 — 1996

• Indian School of Development Management (ISDM)

  Women of Boards Program, Social Sector Advisory Boards

Skills

• Employee Grievance
• Business Partner
• Shared Services
• Team Management
• Mergers & Acquisitions
• Business Transformation
• Business HR Function
• Employee Engagement
• Performance Management
• Overseas Assignments Programs
• Change Management
• Talent Acquisition
• HR Consulting
• Coaching & Mentoring
• Talent Management
• Managed Services Deals