Labor Relations Head for Japanese eyewear brand BGC

Background of the Role

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.

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

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.