Introduction

Our client is seeking an experienced and strategic HR Director to lead and manage all Human Resources functions across both office and retail operations in Japan. This position plays a critical role in shaping the HR landscape of the organization by fostering a strong connection with the executive leadership, local teams, and global HR counterparts. This is a key leadership role for a hands-on professional who thrives in dynamic, multi-stakeholder environments and has a passion for people and culture.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the CEO Japan, the HR Director will serve as a trusted HR Business Partner across all levels of the organization. The role is responsible for leading core HR functions including recruitment, employee relations, labor compliance, HR administration, learning & development, and HR cost management. The position will also act as the key liaison with global HR to ensure alignment on corporate policies and cultural values.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Business Partnership
• Act as a strategic partner to the CEO and leadership team to align HR initiatives with business goals
• Promote and embed company culture and values across both office and retail teams
• Employee Relations & Talent Management
• Lead initiatives to retain and develop key talent
• Foster strong relationships with retail and office staff, acting as a visible and approachable HR leader
• Manage performance-related matters, including disciplinary actions and conflict resolution
• Recruitment & Onboarding
• Lead corporate and retail recruitment activities directly and via recruitment agencies
• Ensure seamless hiring and onboarding processes in line with business requirements
• HR Operations & Compliance
• Oversee payroll, compensation and benefits, and all statutory HR administrative tasks
• Maintain up-to-date employment contracts, salary increase letters, and other official documentation
• Ensure compliance with local labor laws and corporate HR policies
• Budgeting & Cost Control
• Manage annual HR budgets and monthly forecasts
• Ensure efficient cost control across HR functions
• Learning & Development
• Lead training and development initiatives in coordination with global HR
• Promote a culture of continuous learning and upskilling
• HR Systems & Processes
• Implement and maintain human capital management systems (HRIS)
• Drive process improvements and digitalization in HR operations

Requirements

• Proven experience in a senior HR leadership role, ideally within retail and/or consumer-facing industries
• Solid background in HR operations and labor law compliance
• Strong expertise in learning and development, talent management, and employee engagement
• Demonstrated success in HR budgeting, payroll, and cost control
• Hands-on and proactive mindset with the ability to balance strategic thinking and operational execution
• Skilled in project management, problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Fluency in Japanese; proficiency in English is highly preferred



Why Apply

• Strategic leadership role with influence across office and retail HR operations in Japan
• Opportunity to work closely with the Japan CEO and global HR leadership
• High-impact position in a well-established and culturally-driven organization
• Diverse scope of responsibilities with room for innovation and process ownership
• Competitive compensation and the chance to shape the HR future of a key regional market