Human Resources Leader, Chief Executive of The Firm, Former Essar Group President & Coca-Cola HR Director
Adil Malia’s Biography:
Adil Malia has built a remarkable career as a human resources leader and business executive, currently serving as Chief Executive of The Firm in Mumbai. He is a sought-after keynote speaker specialising in strategic human resources, change transformation, leadership coaching and talent management. Among his most notable achievements is his tenure as Group President of HR at Essar Group, where he oversaw people operations for a workforce of over 70,000 employees in a $40 billion global conglomerate.
Adil’s journey began after completing a Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Laws at the University of Mumbai. He followed this with a Master’s in Personal Management, Industrial Relations and Organisational Development from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, a Doctorate in Philosophy from Chitkara University, and the Advanced Management Programme at The Wharton School. He started his corporate path as General Manager of HR at GE Appliances in India in 1990, handling the HR integration following a Godrej-GE partnership. In 1994 he moved to the Gulf region as Group General Manager at Al-Futtaim, driving HR and marketing across brands such as M&S, Hertz and Alcatel and integrating change in a family-owned group shifting to a professional structure. By 1998 he became Director for HR Operations South West Asia at The Coca-Cola Company, responsible for establishing HR systems across more than 40 bottling partners.
In 2006 he assumed the role of Group President of HR at Essar Group, leading global people management during a phase of expansion and transformation. In 2017 he became Chief Executive of The Firm, leading consulting services for turnaround and organisational change across sectors. In 2025 he added another milestone by being appointed as Chairman of the HR Forum India, bringing together senior HR leaders to address workforce transformation, talent readiness and AI-enabled people strategies. This role underscores his reputation as a thought leader in the future of work.
Why Hire Adil Malia?
Organisations should consider hiring Adil because he brings the rare combination of deep academic credentials, cross-industry leadership and real-world change expertise. He speaks on topics such as change management, business management, human resources and talent management, all of which are critical in today’s dynamic environment. His insight helps audiences not only understand strategic imperatives but also translate them into action. Engage him to inspire your leadership team, accelerate transformation and align your people strategy with business goals.
Adil Malia’s Career Highlights:
Below showcases Adil Malia’s inspirational career highlights throughout the world of business management:
- 2025 – Chairman of the HR Forum India
- 2017 – Chief Executive at The Firm
- 2006 – Group President of HR at Essar Group
- 2004 – Completed Advanced Management Programme at The Wharton School
- 1998 – Director for HR Operations South West Asia at The Coca-Cola Company
- 1994 – Group General Manager at Al-Futtaim
- 1990 – General Manager HR at GE Appliances
Videos
Adil Malia’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Adil delivers practical guidance with authority, clarity and warmth. His experience across global organisations helps every audience rethink their approach to people and change.” – Amelia Neate
Speaking Topics
Adil Malia’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Business Management
- Change Management
- Human Resources
- Talent Management
How Much Does Adil Malia Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Adil Malia?
The cost of hiring Adil Malia depends on event requirements such as format, location and length of appearance. For a precise and tailored quote, speak with a London Keynote Speakers Agency booking agent for expert guidance.