The Mahindra Group has announced the launch of SOAR: Seamless Opportunity for Amazing Returnships, a pioneering programme aimed at creating full-time, meaningful career opportunities for women professionals returning to work after a career break. Designed to bridge the gap between professional hiatus and mainstream roles, SOAR offers a comprehensive framework of mentorship, skill development, and ongoing support, setting a new standard for reintegrating talent into the workforce.
Unlike many industry initiatives that confine returning talent to temporary or part-time roles, SOAR provides employment opportunities that are closely aligned with participants’ pre-break experience. This approach ensures that returning professionals are not only welcomed back but are equipped to thrive in roles that match their expertise. According to Mr Ruzbeh Irani, President of Group Human Resources at Mahindra Group, “Women returning to the workforce bring resilience, fresh perspectives, and invaluable experience. At Mahindra, we believe in nurturing this talent by offering not just a role but a journey—one enriched with guidance, upskilling, and long-term growth opportunities. SOAR reflects our promise to ensure that every returning professional feels supported, valued, and empowered to reach new heights.”
The programme targets women with a minimum of five years of professional experience and a career break ranging from six months to three years. Participants begin their journey with an induction at the Mahindra Leadership University (MLU), fostering networking, collaborative learning, and a sense of shared purpose. They are paired with both a dedicated mentor and a “buddy” to provide guidance and advocacy throughout their transition back into the workforce.
SOAR is designed with flexibility at its core, offering work arrangements such as job sharing and part-time engagements to help participants balance professional and personal commitments. Additionally, the programme incorporates regular feedback sessions, structured one-on-one check-ins, and leadership reviews to ensure continuous skill enhancement and alignment with organisational goals.
The initiative reflects the Mahindra Group’s overarching philosophy of Rise, which focuses on empowering individuals to drive positive change. By investing in women returning to work, the Group aims to foster inclusive workplaces that fuel resilience, innovation, and sustainable growth. SOAR is more than just a career programme; it is a commitment to building environments where women professionals can rediscover their professional identities and achieve long-term success.
With SOAR, Mahindra establishes itself as a leader in forward-thinking talent management, demonstrating how developmental opportunities coupled with a strong support network can redefine the future of work for returning women professionals.