• The client has 3 Japanese expatriates managing operations.
• There is no local HR function yet – this will be the first HR hire.
• The role requires a generalist who can manage all areas of HR and General Affairs (GA), but is strong in labor relations, labor law, and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and manage the HR and GA functions from the ground up.
• Lead labor relations: ensure compliance with Philippine labor laws, manage employee relations, and handle government reporting.
• Oversee recruitment, employee onboarding, and training for both store staff and office staff.
• Manage payroll, compensation & benefits, attendance, and other HR operations.
• Support expatriates with work permits, visas, and government compliance.
• Develop HR policies, procedures, and employee handbook suitable for a startup/venture environment.
• Act as a bridge between Japanese management and local employees, promoting a positive workplace culture.

<NOTE>

If the candidate joins the company before October, they will likely start by outsourcing for the first 3 months as the Client is trying to build the company in the Philippines. Now, they have a partnership with another local company. They plan to build their company by Oct - Nov 2025.

• Bachelor’s degree in HR Management, Psychology, Business Administration, or related field.
• 5+ years of HR experience, with a strong background in Philippine labor relations and compliance.
• Solid understanding of DOLE regulations, government reporting (SSS, Pag-IBIG, PhilHealth, BIR), and handling employee cases.
• Generalist HR experience (recruitment, payroll, C&B, employee relations, training).
• Experience working in the retail or service industry is an advantage.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
• Proactive, independent, and adaptable to a fast-paced, startup-like environment.
• Business-level English is required. Japanese language is a plus, but not required.

Benefits: HMO, SL/VL, 13th month

Since they do not have their own entity yet, most of the benefits are TBD and can be negotiable.

Work schedule: Mon-Fri 8 am 5 pm

Interview process: 1. Online with Japanese expat 2. f2f with Japanese expat

<About expansion of the branch>

They have 8 branches in Metro Manila, and plan to expand to 15 branches within 2-3 years, 1 new branch every 3 months.

They plan to expand mostly in Metro Manila, so they will not go too far for a business trip. 

They also have a plan to expand in Cebu, but they aim for only 3 malls so far.