Job Title: (Assistant) Human Resources Manager – Japan
Industry: Luxury / Premium Retail
Company Overview
The organization is a globally recognized premium retail brand with a long heritage and a strong commitment to creativity, innovation, and sustainability. It fosters an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and where employees are encouraged to grow, contribute, and thrive. The company places strong emphasis on responsible business practices and long-term value creation for people, customers, and communities.
Role Purpose
This position is a broad HR generalist role with a strong focus on HR Business Partnering (approximately 70%) and hands-on responsibility for frontline recruitment (approximately 30%). The role partners closely with Retail Operations across Japan, as well as selected Head Office functions, while leading recruitment activities for all store-based roles.
Key Responsibilities
HR Business Partnering (70%)
Act as the main HR contact for Retail Operations across all stores in Japan
Partner with retail leadership and store managers to understand business priorities and deliver effective HR solutions
Lead workforce planning and attrition analysis, including headcount budgeting, hiring forecasts, and retention initiatives to balance cost and talent needs
Drive employee engagement, succession planning, and talent development for frontline and mid-level employees
Manage performance management processes, including goal setting, performance reviews, and calibration sessions
Handle employee relations matters such as disciplinary actions, grievances, performance improvement plans, and exit processes
Support organizational change initiatives, including restructuring and change management
Ensure compliance with Japanese labor laws and internal global HR policies
Support annual compensation, benefits, and promotion review cycles
Frontline Recruitment (30%)
Take full ownership of recruitment for all store-based positions
Partner with Retail Operations to align workforce planning with hiring strategies
Source candidates directly through recruitment platforms and external agencies
Conduct interviews, manage assessments, and coordinate final hiring decisions with stakeholders
Build and maintain talent pipelines for key frontline roles
Manage offer processes, background checks, and onboarding coordination
Continuously enhance candidate experience and employer branding for retail roles
Qualifications & Requirements
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
5–7 years of experience in HR generalist or HR Business Partner roles, preferably within luxury, fashion, premium retail, or hospitality environments
Demonstrated experience in strategic HR partnering and high-volume frontline recruitment
Strong knowledge of Japanese labor laws and HR practices
Native-level Japanese and business-level English proficiency
Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills across multiple levels
Analytical and data-driven approach to problem solving
Hands-on mindset with the ability to work in a fast-paced retail environment
Willingness to travel domestically to store locations as required
Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with applicant tracking systems is an advantage