Pradheepa Raman named CHRO of the Year

GlobalFoundries’ Chief People Officer and team honored for transformative leadership

On May 1 at the CHRO of the Year Awards, GF Chief People Officer Pradheepa Raman was recognized for her outstanding efforts in revolutionizing the semiconductor industry. Awarded by HRO Today, the 2025 Leader of Distinction, Large Market award is a testament to the collective dedication and hard work of the entire GF team.

Best-in-class benefits

Since Raman took the reins at GF two years ago, her team has revolutionized the approach to talent management, focusing on creating a culture that prioritizes the wellbeing of its people. One of the most impactful initiatives has been the Student Loan Repayment Program, a pioneering effort in the semiconductor industry. This program offers U.S.-based employees a tax-free benefit of up to $28,500, helping them alleviate student debt and empowering them to invest in their futures. In less than a year, 237 employees have enrolled, with the program already repaying over $100,000 in loans. Participants have reported newfound financial freedom, allowing them to focus on family planning, home buying, or retirement.

The team’s efforts have also led to other exceptional policies and benefits, like 20 weeks of paid parental leave and childcare credit. The holistic approach to employee wellbeing and career development has reshaped GF’s identity as a people-centric organization.

Employee engagement through ERGs

With Pradheepa’s leadership, GF has recommitted to a culture of inclusivity. Her team’s dedication to inclusivity and employee engagement is evident through GF’s ten Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and 22 chapters across the globe. Open to all employees, these groups are vital– they build community, boost engagement and ensure everyone feels seen and heard. In fact, 26% of GF employees are members. Notably, GF’s Early Tenure Professionals (ETP) ERG launched in Austin, TX, India, Germany and Singapore over the last two years and provide an instant community for new college and university graduates upon hire.  Our inclusive culture is built and sustained by our more than 13,000 global team members.

Building a strong talent pipeline

Recognizing the importance of a sustainable talent pipeline, GF’s team has spearheaded partnerships with institutions like Hudson Valley Community College, resulting in a $1 million donation to enhance workforce training and apprenticeship programs. Initiatives such as the Global Journey Re-Entry Program and the semiconductor industry’s first U.S. Registered Apprenticeship program have broadened the candidate pool, increased retention and advancement and ensured that employees from diverse backgrounds have opportunities to grow and succeed.

Congratulations to Pradheepa and the entire GlobalFoundries team on this well-deserved recognition. Their collective efforts and dedication to fostering a supportive and thriving workplace culture have truly set a new standard in the industry.

The award was announced at the 2025 HRO Today Forum, which annually brings together HR leaders, practitioners, technology experts, and innovators who are building the workforces and setting the policies that will be the future of North American and global business.