Reporting to the Regional HR Director, APAC, the HR Manager in Japan is responsible for leading and developing the local HR team to oversee all HR functions in alignment with organizational goals
Responsibilities
Manage the entire recruitment process for Japan, including requisition approval, job creation in HR systems (e.g., ICIMs), interview coordination, candidate selection, and offer management.
Lead employee onboarding and integration programs in collaboration with hiring managers to ensure smooth transitions and a positive experience for new hires.
Supervise payroll administration, taxation, and social insurance programs, ensuring accurate and timely processing in compliance with Japanese statutory requirements, and oversee the performance of relevant vendors.
Manage leave administration in accordance with statutory entitlements and company policy.
Oversee annual salary review processes to ensure compensation remains equitable and competitive within the market.
Advise line managers on employee relations matters, including performance development, workplace conflict resolution, and disciplinary actions.
Lead or support investigations of workplace matters, ensuring fairness and confidentiality throughout each case.
Conduct training needs analyses and source, develop, and deliver suitable courses and programs for staff development.
Drive the implementation and ongoing development of HR initiatives such as job architecture, succession planning, performance management systems, Dayforce, and job descriptions.
Promote the company’s vision, mission, and values within Cook Japan, fostering trust, credibility, and collaborative relationships at all levels.
Serve as a member of the Health Committee, overseeing Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) initiatives at Cook Japan. Collaborate closely with management to foster and sustain a safe, healthy workplace in full compliance with local regulations and aligned with industry best practices.
Facilitate workplace wellness initiatives, including mental health support and ergonomic assessments. Monitor employee morale and engagement through surveys, feedback sessions, and culture-building initiatives.
Ensure compliance with Japan’s disability employment laws by meeting statutory hiring quotas and promoting an inclusive workplace.
Support organizational initiatives in accordance with Japanese employment law and ethical standards. Ensure appropriate handling and protection of personal information in compliance with Japan’s Act on the Protection of Personal Information (APPI).
Liaise with external vendors, government agencies, and professional bodies as required for HR-related matters.
Partner with the local General Manager to support daily office operations, participate in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, and address ad hoc issues as they arise.
Other ad hoc duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
8–10 years of relevant experience, preferably within multinational companies and ideally in the medical industry.
Comprehensive knowledge of HR best practices and strong understanding of Japanese labor laws.
Hands-on experience across all HR functions is essential.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively across all organizational levels and cultural backgrounds.
Strong analytical skills, self-initiative, effective time management, and a results-oriented mindset. Proven ability to resolve conflicts and complex problems.
Exceptional presentation, negotiation, and written communication skills.
Highly organized, adaptable, and able to work independently under pressure.
Proficiency in English (spoken and written) is required.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint). Openness to learning and implementing new technologies, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), is highly valued.
Consistently reliable, punctual, and dependable, able to perform duties with minimal supervision.
Demonstrated track record of meeting deadlines by effectively balancing multiple priorities while maintaining high-quality standards.
Adopts an analytical and innovative approach to problem-solving.
Exceptionally organized with a keen attention to detail, approaching daily tasks with flexibility, initiative, and enthusiasm.
Proven ability to work collaboratively within diverse, multicultural teams.
Analytical thinker with excellent leadership skills, self-motivation, strong time management, and a results-driven approach to tasks and challenges.
Flexible to participate in virtual meetings outside regular working hours, with local travel required and international travel as needed.
