Manager, People & Organization (Japan)
Location: Japan
Reports to: Head of Corporate Office, Japan
Team: Supervises HR and office coordination staff
Role Overview
The Manager, People & Organization is responsible for leading the full scope of HR operations in Japan. This role ensures compliance with local labor regulations while fostering an engaged, collaborative, and high-performance workplace. Acting as both a strategic partner and hands-on operator, the Manager provides guidance to leaders and employees on HR matters including recruitment, employee relations, performance management, compensation, and organizational development.
Key Responsibilities
HR Operations
-
Manage end-to-end HR processes including hiring, onboarding, offboarding, payroll coordination, and benefits administration
-
Maintain accurate employee records and HR documentation
-
Ensure compliance with employment laws, tax regulations, and social insurance requirements
Employee Relations & Performance Management
-
Serve as a trusted advisor to managers and employees
-
Support performance cycles, coaching discussions, and development planning
-
Address employee concerns and facilitate resolution of workplace issues
Talent Acquisition & Employer Branding
-
Lead the recruitment process from job postings to offer negotiations
-
Collaborate with stakeholders to strengthen talent attraction initiatives
Culture & Engagement
-
Design and implement initiatives that support employee well-being and a positive workplace culture
-
Drive internal communication and engagement programs that reinforce organizational values
Leadership & Team Development
-
Supervise and mentor HR and administrative support staff
-
Provide direction, feedback, and coaching to support continuous improvement
Qualifications
Experience
-
5–7+ years of progressive HR experience, preferably in multinational or cross-cultural environments
-
Strong knowledge of Japanese labor law, payroll requirements, and statutory processes
-
Demonstrated ability to manage HR operations independently and lead small teams
-
Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills
-
High standards of integrity and confidentiality
Language Skills
-
Native-level Japanese
-
Business-level English (spoken and written)
Education
-
Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business Administration, or a related field
-
HR certifications (e.g., 社会保険労務士, SHRM) are beneficial
Career Path Opportunities
-
Advancement to senior HR leadership roles
-
Potential transition into regional HR responsibilities or related corporate functions