Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Senior Talent Management Specialist / Lead to serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for US Talent programs, supporting end-to-end execution of Talent cycles, Workday configuration, and operational governance. This role ensures seamless execution of performance management, succession planning, talent data integrity, and recruitment support processes.
The Lead will additionally oversee candidate screening and background verification (BGV) workflows, ensuring compliance, accuracy, and professional handling of sensitive information. This role also requires mentoring junior specialists, managing escalations, and driving continuous improvement initiatives across Talent Operations.
This position supports US time zones, requires night shift work with rotational weekly offs, and is based in our Chennai office.

Key Responsibilities

Talent Management Operations & SME Support
• Act as SME for escalations related to performance review administration, goal alignment, talent assessments, and succession data quality.
• Lead the operational execution of annual Talent Management cycles, including performance evaluations, goal setting, succession reviews, and calibration workflows.
• Ensure accuracy and timeliness of cycle reporting, dashboards, and compliance documentation.
• Liaise with the US Talent & Culture COE to interpret policy changes and operationalize them into streamlined processes.

Workday Expertise & Process Optimization
• Drive process improvements and optimize Talent workflows by leveraging Workday capabilities (Talent, Performance, Succession Planning).




• Partner with HRIS teams to troubleshoot issues, validate configurations, support UAT, and maintain data integrity.
• Ensure accurate talent data across Workday, including goals, ratings, succession plans, development actions, and learning completions.

Screening & Background Verification (BGV) Support
• Screen profiles and rsums for alignment with job requirements; shortlist qualified candidates for next steps.
• Track and coordinate BGV activities, including drug test scheduling, candidate communication, and follow-ups.
• Receive, analyze, and share BGV results with the client, ensuring adherence to compliance and turnaround standards.
• Maintain accurate recruitment and verification documentation, trackers, and compliance files.
Employee & Candidate Support
• Act as a point of contact for candidate or employee queries related to Talent processes, Workday access, documentation, or BGV status.
• Ensure timely resolution of all queries while maintaining a high-quality service delivery experience.

Leadership & Quality Governance (Lead Role)
• Mentor junior specialists, manage workload distribution, and provide training on complex Talent or BGV scenarios.
• Conduct RCA for errors,



implement corrective actions, and drive quality improvements.
• Strengthen knowledge base content, SOP updates, and operational playbooks for Talent and BGV processes.

Qualifications
• 3–6 years of experience in Talent Management Operations, HR Analytics, HRIS support, or related HRSS functions with a US geography focus.
• Advanced functional expertise in Workday Talent, Performance, and Succession Planning, with solid command of Workday HCM.
• Experience with ATS systems, sourcing tools, and screening platforms.
• Bachelor’s degree in HR, Organizational Development, Psychology, Business, or related field; Master’s preferred.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Strong understanding of US employment laws, compliance requirements, and talent governance practices.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Core Competencies
• Expert-level understanding of talent management methodologies, frameworks, and best practices.
• Strong analytical ability and skill in generating and interpreting talent and recruitment metrics.
• Ability to influence and collaborate with cross-functional teams, COEs, and client stakeholders.
• High accountability and ownership of sensitive processes involving confidential employee and candidate data.
• Strong documentation, compliance, and governance discipline.
• Service-oriented mindset with the ability to resolve queries professionally and effectively.

📌 Talent Management Specialist (Chennai)
🏢 Sutherland
📍 Chennai