MUMBAI: Breaking barriers and setting new benchmarks, Priyadarshini Gaddam has officially stepped into her role as director (personnel) at NMDC. Appointed as a functional director on the board by the Ministry of Steel, her ascent is not just another appointment—it’s a statement. In an industry where leadership roles for women are still rare gems, she has carved out a path that others can follow.

Before taking on this leadership mantle, Priyadarshini was the chief general manager (personnel & administration), overseeing NMDC’s corporate office in Hyderabad and NMDC Steel Ltd in Nagarnar. Her journey at NMDC began in 1992 as an executive trainee, and since then, she has climbed the ranks with sheer grit and a relentless drive for progress. If ever there was a masterclass in rising through the ranks, she’s the one teaching it.

Over her three-decade-long tenure, Priyadarshini has championed workplace safety for women, pushed for equal opportunities for marginalised communities, and set new benchmarks in employee welfare at NMDC. She has played a pivotal role in revolutionising industrial relations, recruitment, medical policies, and stakeholder management. Her ability to negotiate wage settlements and her representation of NMDC in the second pay revision commission led to milestone outcomes that shaped the company’s employee policies.

Her leadership took centre stage at NMDC Steel Limited (NSL), where she spearheaded the R&R policy, advocated skill development initiatives, and swiftly established crucial facilities like the fire department, occupational health centre, and primary health centre. The result? A safer, healthier, and more empowered workforce.

An alumna of Osmania University, Hyderabad, Priyadarshini holds a postgraduate degree in social work (personnel management and industrial relations) and an LLB. With her at the helm, NMDC is gearing up to aim higher, work smarter, and redefine leadership in the mining industry.