Head of HR China, Shanghai (CN)

Our client is a leading multinational company in the professional services sector, recognised for its strong global presence and industry reputation. The business has a substantial and long-established footprint in China, serving a diverse portfolio of international and local clients. Its operations remain stable, supported by a mature business model and solid governance. Despite market fluctuations, the company’s China performance continues to be resilient and strategically important to its global growth.

The Head of HR China will serve as the senior HR leader for the country, directly reporting to the China CEO with a dotted line to the Asia CHRO. This role oversees a sizable organisation, including a 20-person corporate HR team and large regional HR teams across China. It requires a strong strategic focus, providing robust business partnership to the China CEO and the leadership team on all people and organisational matters. The ideal leader must demonstrate high maturity to steer HR transformation, elevate HR capabilities, and ensure the function operates as a true strategic enabler for the business.

We are seeking a mature HR leader with extensive experience in the professional services industry and deep knowledge of the China market. The ideal candidate has a proven track record of driving strategic initiatives and leading transformational growth within complex organisations. They must be a trusted business partner to senior leaders, able to influence decisions and shape organisational priorities. Success in a global matrix environment, balancing global standards with local needs, is essential.

This is an excellent Country HR leadership role for an ambitious and up-and-coming HR professional. The environment is hands-on and entrepreneurial, so candidates should be ready to roll up their sleeves and drive impact. The role offers strong visibility, working closely with senior business leaders while shaping the people agenda for China. It is a rare opportunity to step into a high-profile, regionally connected position within a thriving, world-class organisation.

This opportunity sits within a highly matrixed global organisation, requiring exceptional stakeholder management and the ability to navigate complex decision-making environments. The HR function is in a stage of growth and evolution, so the role will demand a hands-on, practical approach to building processes, capabilities, and teams. It is well-suited for a leader who can balance strategic thinking with operational execution in a dynamic setting.