Japanese Speaking HR & Office Manager

Location: London, United Kingdom
Employment Type: Full-time (6-month probation period)
Visa Requirement: Valid UK work visa required

3. Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all HR functions, including recruitment, onboarding/offboarding, payroll administration, performance management, and employee engagement initiatives.
• Act as the primary liaison between the UK office and Japan Headquarters on HR matters, expatriate administration, and corporate governance topics.
• Review, develop, and implement HR policies and procedures to ensure alignment with company objectives and statutory requirements.
• Oversee employee relations and ensure full compliance with ACAS guidelines, UK employment laws, and local HR best practices.
• Manage expatriate-related matters such as work visa support, tax coordination, relocation arrangements, and housing.
• Provide strategic advice to senior management on HR strategy, organizational structure, and talent development.
• Coordinate communication and relationships with external HR, legal, and compliance partners.
• Plan and execute internal engagement events including annual gatherings, anniversary celebrations, and company trips.
• Oversee insurance renewals, ISO / J-SOX / internal audits, and other HR compliance documentation.
• Maintain accurate HR records, documentation, and reporting.
• Supervise and support the HR & Administration team to ensure smooth and efficient office operations.
• Handle additional ad-hoc duties and projects assigned by senior management.

4. Required Experience & Qualifications

Must-Have Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent qualification) in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of progressive HR experience, preferably within a multinational company or Japanese organization.
• Experience managing or supervising a team of at least 1–2 members.
• Strong understanding of UK labour laws, HR compliance, and ACAS regulations.
• Hands-on experience in payroll administration, HR policy implementation, and employee relations.
• Business-level Japanese proficiency (JLPT N1–N2 or equivalent) for communication with Japan Headquarters.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Nice-to-Have Qualifications

• Experience working in a small company or start-up environment.
• Interest in Japanese entertainment, animation, or film industries, with willingness for long-term commitment.
• Knowledge of ISO standards or J-SOX compliance.
• Positive, flexible mindset with the ability to build strong cross-functional and cross-cultural relationships.