Human Resources Director

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