Startek®, a global customer experience solutions provider, has received the prestigious ‘Excellence in Change Transformation’ award at the Economic Times Human Capital Awards 2026. This recognition, awarded on February 19, 2026, highlights Startek’s commitment to advancing hybrid work and leadership transformation in the business process outsourcing (BPO) sector.
The award ceremony took place in Mumbai, India, and was organized by The Economic Times, a leading financial publication known for acknowledging organizations that prioritize human capital. Startek stood out as the only BPO honored in this category, a testament to its innovative approaches in employee engagement and organizational development.
The selection process for the awards involved a comprehensive three-step evaluation. Initially, organizations submitted detailed reports on their people practices. This was followed by a preliminary assessment conducted by official tabulators and culminated in a presentation to a grand jury composed of industry leaders. The evaluation criteria included strategy and innovation, execution and implementation, measurable business impact, and talent experience outcomes.
Startek was recognized for its extensive initiatives aimed at transforming workplace management and enhancing employee experience. These efforts encompass hybrid workplace strategies, leadership capability development, transparent communication, career progression opportunities, inclusivity, and employee wellbeing. The results have not only strengthened Startek’s organizational agility but also improved measurable performance metrics.
“Our transformation journey is continuous and purposeful,” stated SM Gupta, Chief People Officer at Startek. “We aim to build a resilient, future-ready organization by aligning our culture, leadership, and capabilities with our business strategy. This recognition affirms our belief that sustainable growth starts with investing in our people and fostering an environment where they can thrive.”
Startek operates in 12 countries and employs a workforce of approximately 38,000 associates. The company is committed to advancing its hybrid work framework and enhancing its people strategy to drive long-term value for both clients and employees.
The Economic Times Human Capital Awards celebrate organizations that make significant investments in their workforce, processes, and culture. This initiative by The Economic Times aims to foster a dynamic HR landscape in India, providing a platform for HR leaders to connect, learn, and explore opportunities.
As a leader in customer experience management, Startek continues to innovate and deliver comprehensive digital transformation solutions. With over 35 years of industry expertise, the company focuses on creating memorable customer interactions, leveraging empathy and operational excellence. More information about Startek can be found at their official website, www.startek.com, and on LinkedIn at @Startek.
