Celebrating People, Ideas, and Impact at HR Smile 2025

Written by: Muhammad Andhika Ferdiansyah - Employer Branding & Engagement

HR Smile 2025 (image source: TechConnect)

As organizations continue accelerating their digital transformation journeys, the role of HR has evolved into a strategic driver of innovation, culture, and organizational resilience. This spirit came to life at HR Smile 2025, held on October 30, 2025 at The Grand Mansion Menteng, Jakarta, where leaders, practitioners, and innovators gathered to exchange insights and explore how AI and people-centric strategies are shaping the future of work.

Inspiring Keynote Insights from Industry Leaders

Keynote Speech of “The Why” by Dilip Mistry, CEO of SRX (Dian Swastatika Sentosa) (image source: TechConnect)

HR Smile 2025 brought together influential speakers who shared transformative perspectives on leadership, technology, and the evolving workforce. Their sessions highlighted how AI is accelerating decision-making, enabling smarter HR operations, and strengthening the employee experience.

Keynote Speech of “The How” by Irvan Bastian Arief, VP of Data Science & Machine Learning Engineering at tiket.com (image source: TechConnect)

These keynote insights sparked meaningful conversations and inspired participants to rethink how HR can continue driving value through innovation and empathy.

Speakers & Moderator of AI Talkshow Session from left to right, Levina Herwanto (Head of Business Intelligence & Research at S-Quantum Engine), Bonifasius (President Director, Golden Energy Mines), Swasono Satyo (CHRO Digital Technology Business, Sinar Mas Multiartha & Mining Group), Frenky Tritowijoyo (President Director Bank Sinarmas), Marcus Budimulia (CHRO, Golden Agri-Resources), and Jeremia Ratadhi (Director & Chief People Officer, XLSMART)

The event also featured the AI Talkshow “How Sinar Mas Way”, which explored how AI is being embedded into business practices across the Sinar Mas ecosystem. Through real cases and forward-looking strategies, the session showcased how data, technology, and people come together to drive stronger organizational outcomes.

TechConnect Excellence Award 2025: Celebrating Outstanding Achievements

The Winner of HR Manager of The Year, from left to right Isdar Marwan (President Director at Mercer Indonesia and Indonesia Market Leader for Mercer), Johlizaan Ferdinandez (HRBP Manager - SMART), Felix Andres Panggabean (Manager, HRBP Paper Mill - APP), Happy Sola Gracia (Learning Solution Manager - SMART), and Rina Faqih (HRGA Director at Great Giant Foods (image source: TechConnect)

One of the most anticipated moments of the event was the TechConnect Excellence Award 2025, recognizing exceptional accomplishments across the TechConnect ecosystem. The award ceremony showcased the dedication, creativity, and collaborative spirit of teams who continue pushing boundaries and championing positive change.

The celebration brought energy and excitement to the room, highlighting how excellence thrives when innovation and teamwork come together.

A Day Filled with Connection, Energy, and Shared Experiences

Beyond the sessions and awards, HR Smile 2025 was also about the people, their stories, reflections, and enthusiasm. Participants engaged in conversations, shared learnings, enjoyed performances, and created meaningful connections that strengthened the community.

Exclusive activities such as interactive games, goodie bags, and a free mini MCU added extra fun, making the event both insightful and memorable.

Sinar Mas Agribusiness and Food will be hosting HR Smile 2026, from left to right, Marcus Budimulia (CHRO, Golden Agri-Resources) and Swasono Satyo (CHRO Digital Technology Business, Sinar Mas Multiartha & Mining Group)

The journey doesn’t stop here. As we reflect on the success of this year’s celebration, we are excited to announce that Sinar Mas Agribusiness and Food will proudly host HR Smile 2026. With greater innovation, deeper collaboration, and even stronger community engagement, next year promises to be another remarkable milestone.

See you at HR Smile 2026!