Mentorship, innovations and empowerment are the hallmarks of this leader’s career
Mathai is a true exemplar of leadership, innovation, and excellence in human resources, as evidenced by her “Women Worth Watching in Leadership Award.” Her influence extends far beyond her immediate team, impacting the wider community through dedicated mentorship and involvement in community initiatives. She fosters a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, empowering individuals to contribute their best through her contagious optimism, confidence, and humor. Her mentorship, particularly impactful for women like myself, demonstrates that resilience, inclusivity, and empathy are not mere buzzwords, but essential principles for success. By sharing her experiences, offering guidance, and advocating for women’s advancement, Mathai underscores the power of diversity and creating opportunities for all. Her impact resonates deeply with those fortunate enough to work alongside her.
Mathai’s distinguished career is marked by outstanding achievements and significant contributions to the HR field. Her extensive expertise and unwavering commitment to excellence have enabled her to shape organizations and drive positive change at companies like Synack, Upwork, and Globality, where she built and scaled global recruiting and HR functions. She possesses a deep understanding of HR’s vital role in organizational success, strategically aligning HR initiatives with business objectives to enhance productivity, employee satisfaction, and overall performance.
A hallmark of Mathai’s career is innovation. She consistently pushes boundaries by leveraging emerging technologies and data analytics to drive informed decision-making. By implementing advanced HR systems, she streamlines processes, enhances the employee experience, and optimizes HR operations with data-driven insights. This innovative approach has positioned her organizations as pioneers in HR practices, earning recognition for their forward-thinking initiatives. Her commitment to inclusivity creates a safe and thriving environment for individuals from all backgrounds, catalyzing positive change within her organizations and the broader industry. In the male-dominated tech sector, she tirelessly champions women’s voices, ensuring they feel valued and heard. As a proactive leader, she pioneers the use of AI and other technologies, enabling HR teams to focus on the “human” element – listening to employees and supporting their well-being – a win-win for everyone.
Beyond her executive responsibilities, Mathai actively contributes to industry associations and thought leadership forums. A sought-after speaker, she shares her expertise on HR trends, leadership, and organizational development at conferences and in publications, advancing global HR practices. She also regularly guest lectures at colleges and universities across the US, participating in panels on the future of HR and women’s roles in the industry. Her numerous accolades, including the Ragan Award for her work supporting women in technology, workplace positivity, and employee wellness, are a testament to her exceptional achievements. Mathai’s success and impact serve as an inspiration to women aspiring to executive leadership.


