Summary:
For over a decade, India's Global Capability Centers (GCCs) have been pillars of efficiency and scale. However, a profound transformation is underway. Our research, based on an analysis of 150+ GCCs and interviews with 100+ leaders, reveals a decisive shift: the strategic mandate is moving from cost arbitrage and operational support to owning global innovation, product development, and digital transformation. This report provides a data-backed blueprint for this new era. We examine the changing portfolio of GCCs, the emerging "mission-critical" roles, the evolving leadership profile, and the geographic redistribution of specialized talent.
Key Findings:
- 72% of new GCCs established in 2023-24 list “Product Innovation” or “Core R&D” as a primary objective.
- Demand for “Engineering Manager” and “Product Manager” roles within GCCs has grown by over 200% in three years.
- Hyderabad and Pune are emerging as primary destinations for pharma R&D and deep-tech engineering centers, respectively, challenging Bangalore’s dominance in certain niches.
- 65% of GCC Heads now report directly to a global Product or Technology Head, rather than a shared services or operations leader.