The Mahindra Group is proud to announce the launch of “SOAR: Seamless Opportunity for Amazing Returnships”, another step towards workplace inclusivity. SOAR offers mainstream full-time roles for women professionals returning to the workforce. This returnship program is open to women with at least five years of prior work experience and is valid across all Mahindra Group companies.

The SOAR program offers a platform for women returning from a break of 6 months to 3 years, helping them reconnect with their careers. Women employees returning after a career break value a mainstream full-time role where they have an opportunity to prove themselves again. By combining structured onboarding, mentorship, and long-term engagement, Mahindra aims to position itself as the top choice for women resuming their careers.

SOAR is tailored for women candidates who meet the following criteria:
Minimum work experience: At least five years of professional experience before the career break. Break duration: A career gap of more than 6 months and less than 3 years.
This broad eligibility ensures a diverse talent pool, allowing Mahindra Group to harness expertise from various industries.

SOAR offers mainstream full-time roles that align with participants’ previous experience, enabling them to contribute effectively from day one. Unlike many returnship programs that provide contractual roles, SOAR stands out by offering full-time opportunities for stability and career growth.

For roles that allow flexibility, SOAR provides part-time or job-sharing options. Participants can work half-days with prorated compensation, offering a balanced transition back into professional life.

Each sector within Mahindra Group hosts job opportunities on the dedicated SOAR webpage. Applications are shortlisted and finalized by respective sectors, with grades and compensation approved by the Talent Acquisition Head and CHRO.

The Mentorship program in SOAR is designed to guide participants through their transition, providing personalized support and targeted upskilling to help them regain confidence and stay updated with industry trends. This approach distinguishes SOAR from other returnship programs, which often lack such structured and dedicated support.

Buddy System: Every participant is assigned a buddy (a female colleague) for six months to provide on-ground support.

Mentorship: A senior mentor outside the reporting hierarchy, is assigned to guide participants for six months. Preference is given to female mentors to foster relatable connections.

Participants are grouped into cohorts for shared experiences and support. This collective structure fosters peer learning and camaraderie.

Governance is a critical part of the SOAR program. Regular feedback is sought at intervals of 30 days, 60 days, 90 days, 6 months, and 12 months to monitor progress and satisfaction. Sector CHROs also conduct periodic reviews for up to two years to ensure sustained growth.

Unlike other returnship programs, which often offer token roles or limited engagements, SOAR is structured to invest deeply in its participants. Key benefits include:
The bespoke MLU curriculum equips participants with relevant skills to bridge any knowledge gaps.

The program ensures participants are set up for long-term success through sustained mentorship and leadership reviews.

Many returning professionals leave within a year of rejoining because they feel disengaged or undervalued. With the help of SOAR, employees will be aligned deeply within Mahindra Group companies.

To ensure transparency and success, governance is a central pillar of the SOAR program: The CHRO, along with sector leaders, oversees the selection, engagement, and retention of participants.

MLU and the Global HR team handle program development and technology partnerships to streamline processes.

Regular performance check-ins by managers and HR ensure continuous development and address any challenges.

The SOAR initiative represents Mahindra Group's belief in inclusivity and empowering women. By addressing the unique challenges faced by women returning to work, Mahindra is setting a benchmark for corporate India.

For women seeking to restart their professional journey, SOAR is a movement to redefine workplace diversity and equality. With its structured approach, mainstream roles, and robust support, SOAR opens doors to new opportunities and renewed aspirations.