We are currently supporting a search for a Head of People to lead the Japan operations of a major player in the manufacturing sector. This pivotal role is designed for a strategic leader who can harmonize global corporate strategies with the nuances of the Japanese market to drive organizational excellence.

About the Role

As the Head of People Japan, you will serve as a key member of the local leadership team, acting as a bridge between global headquarters and the domestic workforce. Reporting into the regional People structure, you will lead a dedicated local team to deliver high-quality HR services within a complex, matrixed multinational environment. Your focus will be on fostering an environment of engagement, performance, and long-term growth while ensuring the organization remains agile and compliant.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Advisory

• Set the long-term strategic direction for the People function in Japan, ensuring it aligns with overarching global business objectives.
• Partner closely with country leadership and key stakeholders to drive business success through impactful people initiatives.
• Monitor regional market dynamics and workforce needs to proactively adjust talent strategies.

Operational Excellence & Compliance

• Translate global policies into locally compliant practices, ensuring full adherence to Japanese labor legislation and regulations.
• Govern the delivery of HR programs and processes to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and a high-quality experience for all employees.
• Manage collaboration with global Centers of Expertise (CoE) and external service providers to optimize service delivery.

Team Empowerment & Organizational Culture

• Lead, develop, and empower the Japan People team to maintain high standards of service and professional growth.
• Champion the organization’s core values and culture, adapting them to be locally relevant while maintaining global consistency.
• Drive change management and transformation initiatives to support the company’s evolution in the Japan market.

Requirements

Experience: Extensive background in senior HR leadership roles, specifically within the Japanese market.

• Expertise: Deep knowledge of Japanese labor law, compliance, and employee relations.
• Leadership: Proven ability to influence senior business leaders and lead high-performing teams.
• Industry: Experience in the semiconductor, manufacturing, industrial, or advanced technology sectors is highly preferred.
• Language: Native-level Japanese and business-level English (written and spoken) are essential.

Why Apply?

• Strategic Impact: Opportunity to shape the People agenda for a global industry leader at the country level.
• Global Visibility: Work closely with regional and global HQs, offering significant exposure to international leadership.
• Leadership Autonomy: Direct mandate to lead and develop a professional team and modernize local HR practices.
• Cultural Agility: A role that rewards the ability to balance global corporate standards with local cultural nuances.
• Innovation-Driven Environment: Join a company at the forefront of technological advancement and industrial growth.