Client Overview

HID Global is a globally recognized American manufacturer of secure identity products. As an independent brand under Assa Abloy, HID Global specializes in physical and logical access control solutions including smart card readers, card printer/encoders, and software for secure identity management. The company also offers virtualization technology, cashless payment solutions, government IDs, RFID products, and professional services.

Challenge

In 2014, HID Global planned to establish a Research & Development (R&D) center in Chennai, India, to tap into local talent pools and accelerate innovation. They required a reliable talent acquisition partner to build a high-quality team across multiple levels in a relatively new market environment.

Objectives

  • Successfully set up the R&D center in India with a skilled workforce.
  • Quickly ramp up hiring to meet technology development needs.
  • Overcome initial communication and market understanding challenges.
  • Establish long-term recruitment support for sustainable growth.

Approach

Alp Consulting was chosen as the exclusive Talent Acquisition partner for HID Global India. Initial challenges included communication gaps and limited knowledge of the Indian talent market by the HID APAC HR lead, Mrs. Rachel Chuang.

In February 2014, Alp Consulting engaged the US-based technology leadership team for HID Global directly to deepen understanding of hiring challenges and expectations. Presenting a first batch of quality resumes demonstrated Alp's recruitment expertise, leading HID Global to award them a retainer contract for the initial hiring phase.

Solution Implementation

  • Hired the first 9-member core R&D team by May 2014.
  • Expanded the team to 50 members by the end of 2014.
  • Recruited key leadership: Mr. Manish Misra as Center Head India & Senior Director of Engineering, and Mr. Suresh Ramaswamy as Head of HR India.
  • Supported ongoing recruitment as HID Global grew rapidly in India.

Results

  • Established a solid foundation for the R&D center with expert hires.
  • Overcame initial cross-cultural and communication challenges effectively.
  • Created a talent pipeline that scaled to support HID Global’s growth from 50 to over 400 employees.
  • Built a longstanding partnership, with Alp Consulting remaining the exclusive talent acquisition partner and integrating extended staffing support onsite.

Client Testimonial

“Alp Consulting’s dedication and expertise played a crucial role in our successful expansion in India. They understood our unique hiring needs and adapted swiftly to market conditions, helping us build a world-class R&D team from scratch.”
— HID Global Leadership Team

Conclusion

Alp Consulting’s strategic recruitment partnership enabled HID Global to successfully establish and expand its R&D operations in India. The collaboration showcases Alp’s ability to navigate complex hiring challenges, deliver quality talent quickly, and cultivate enduring client relationships that support sustained business growth.