Head of HR Japan & APAC / 人事責任者

Head of HR Japan & APAC

Overview

Our client is seeking an Head of HR for Japan and the Asia Pacific region at a global software company expanding its presence in APAC. This role offers the opportunity to lead strategic HR initiatives, partner with business leaders, and influence people strategy across a dynamic, matrixed organization. Benefits include working in a global environment with a focus on compliance, leadership development, and employee engagement in Tokyo, Japan.

Key Responsibilities:

• Partner with leaders to align HR strategies with business goals
• Advise on organizational design, workforce planning, and change management
• Lead talent review, succession planning, and leadership development programs
• Coach managers on performance management and career development
• Ensure compliance with Japanese labor laws and employment regulations
• Manage employee relations, investigations, and disciplinary actions
• Implement regional HR programs aligned with global initiatives
• Drive employee engagement and promote inclusive workplace culture
• Utilize HR analytics to inform workforce decisions and improve effectiveness
• Serve as trusted advisor to senior leaders on talent and people strategies
• Lead organizational change and transformation initiatives across APAC
• Collaborate with legal and HR teams to mitigate workplace risks
• Maintain high standards of HR data integrity and governance

Requirements:

• 10+ years senior HR leadership experience
• Strong knowledge of Japanese labor laws and compliance
• Professional fluency in Japanese and business-level English
• Experience advising business leaders in global matrix organizations
• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
• Experience with talent management and succession planning
• Ability to lead organizational change and transformation initiatives
• Strong business acumen with strategic and operational balance
• Experience using HR analytics and workforce data for decision-making
• Familiarity with employee engagement and culture-building programs
• Skilled in coaching and influencing leaders at multiple organizational levels