Join a purpose-driven global travel and hospitality organization as HR Director, leading people strategy for Japan in close partnership with global leadership. This senior role focuses on shaping culture, governance, and long-term people impact while empowering a high-performing local HR team. You will work directly with the Japan General Manager and international stakeholders to align people strategy with business priorities in a values-led, sustainability-focused environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Shape and lead Japan HR strategy in alignment with global direction, company values, and business priorities
- Partner closely with the Japan General Manager and leadership team on organizational design, workforce planning, and engagement strategy
- Empower and guide the local HR team by setting clear expectations, governance, and decision rights without owning execution
- Provide oversight on HR policies, labor compliance, and employee relations, acting as a trusted escalation point when required
- Establish recruitment principles and frameworks that support long-term talent needs and cultural alignment
- Champion performance management, leadership development, and employee experience initiatives
- Act as the primary HR representative for Japan, collaborating with global teams and localizing global initiatives
Required Skills and Qualifications
Experience:
- Extensive HR leadership experience in Japan, ideally in senior or director-level roles
- Strong track record operating in dynamic, growth-oriented organizations
- Deep understanding of Japanese labor law, HR governance, and best practices
- Proven experience advising senior leaders on people, culture, and organizational topics
- Experience working with international stakeholders and global HR teams
Soft Skills:
- Strong strategic judgment with the ability to influence through trust rather than control
- High emotional intelligence and confidence handling complex interpersonal situations
- Coaching-oriented leadership style that enables team autonomy and growth
- Ability to balance structure and flexibility in evolving environments
- Collaborative mindset with strong integrity and professionalism
Language Requirements:
- Japanese: Fluent or native level
- English: Intermediate to Business level
Preferred Skills & Qualifications
- Background in travel, tourism, hospitality, or other people-centric industries
- Experience in purpose-led, sustainability-focused, or B-Corp-aligned organizations
- Exposure to scaling people practices in entrepreneurial or high-growth environments
- Experience supporting regional or global People & Culture initiatives
- Familiarity with hybrid and flexible working models
About the Company
Our client is a purpose-driven international travel organization committed to responsible growth and sustainability. With a strong focus on people, culture, and long-term employee experience, the company operates globally while maintaining a collaborative, people-first culture in Japan.
Why You'll Love Working Here
- Purpose-driven organization with strong sustainability values
- Highly engaged team in a collaborative, people-first culture
- High levels of trust, autonomy, and minimal bureaucracy
- Opportunity to meaningfully shape people strategy and organizational culture
- Hybrid and flexible working environment supporting work-life balance
Don't Miss Out - Apply Now!