We are currently supporting a search for a Senior HR & General Affairs Manager for a leading global group. As a key leader in their Tokyo operations, you will drive organizational excellence by harmonizing sophisticated European corporate standards with local Japanese market dynamics during a pivotal phase of leadership transition.

About the Role

Reporting to the Representative Director in Japan with a dotted line to Regional Headquarters, this is a "Playing Manager" mandate designed for a versatile leader who thrives on both strategic oversight and hands-on execution. You will lead a dedicated team to modernize HR infrastructure and ensure the smooth operation of General Affairs, acting as a vital bridge between the Japan office and global stakeholders to support a high-growth business unit within a global matrix.

Responsibilities

Strategic Personnel & Labor Management

• Lead headcount planning and workforce optimization in alignment with global growth targets.
• Oversee labor relations, including the modernization of work rules and ensuring strict compliance with local regulations.
• Manage personnel costs and provide sophisticated reporting/analytics to local management and Global HQ.

Talent Acquisition & Organizational Development

• Direct end-to-end recruitment strategies to attract top-tier technical and commercial talent.
• Optimize performance evaluation frameworks and compensation systems to drive a high-performance culture.
• Design and implement impactful L&D programs focused on leadership and technical skill mapping.

General Affairs & Governance

• Supervise comprehensive office management and external vendor relations (including payroll outsourcing).
• Ensure rigorous Occupational Health & Safety standards and corporate compliance.
• Serve as the primary liaison for local authorities and legal entities.

Requirements

• Experience: 5+ years of comprehensive experience in HR and Labor Relations, ideally within a global manufacturing or engineering environment.
• Expertise: Deep practical knowledge of Japanese labor laws, attendance management systems, and work rule implementation.
• Language: Business-level English (capable of presenting to and negotiating with Global HQ) and Native-level Japanese.
• Mindset: A "Builder" mentality with the executive presence to influence senior stakeholders while remaining hands-on with the team.

Why Apply?

• Global Visibility: High-impact role with direct exposure to European headquarters and regional leadership.
• Strategic Autonomy: Opportunity to shape and improve local HR/GA policies within a world-class industrial group.
• Stability & Growth: Join a market leader known for engineering excellence and long-term investment in the Japan market.
• Modern Work Culture: Flexible work environment including flex-time and work-from-home options.