Henry Seals

Manager People & Culture

Philip Morris International |

Any random thoughts you`d like to share about the Japan TA/Recruitment market?

Companies are always hiring because there are always problems that forward-looking companies need solved. The more you can present yourself as a solver of problems, the more opportunities you will find. Know the pain points of the person or company you are interviewing with.

Years in HR & People

12 Years non-Recruitment HR

Industries Covered/Worked

Software, Manufacturing, Insurance, Fintech

Specialties / Skills

Executive Coaching, Project Management, Training

Years Experience Managing

22 Years

Career Path to Your Current Position

I’m not in TA space, but as a P & C Manager I work closely with TA to find, evaluate, and onboard talent.

What You Enjoy Most About People & Culture?

I enjoy helping people find a career that speaks both to their professional needs, but also their personal drive and passion.

What You Enjoy Most About People Management?

Helping people grow into the leaders they did not even think they could be.

What is the most important attribute you typically look for in a candidate when hiring for your team/company?

Openness to feedback and desire to learn. On top of that if they are empathetic, it makes them a better teammate during a time where people are working in isolation and anxious.

What are the biggest issues/challenges for enterprises when it comes to hiring globally?

The mindset match of the candidate and the organization.

Achievement/s You`re Most Proud of

Professionally, I am proud to have been elected as the first foreign born Japan Human Rights Commissioner. Personally, seeing one of my children graduate college. 1 down 4 to go:-)

Any Pet Peeves?

Bullying or selfish behavior. If someone doesn’t seem to value people, I find it difficult to work with or for them.

If you hadn`t gone into HR what would you likely have ended up doing?

I would probably be a corporate coach or trainer, or would have gotten involved in public service much earlier.

Tell us one change you would be very happy to see happen related to recruitment in Japan

Companies should also post roles from other companies in the market. This would illustrate to employees that their company is trying to help build them and have the affect of increasing engagement and retention.