HR Director, Shanghai (CN)

Our client is a leading multinational company in the life sciences sector, recognised for its strong global performance and long-standing industry reputation. With a significant and well-established presence in China, the company continues to invest heavily in the region. China is considered one of its core markets worldwide, underscoring its strategic importance to the organisation’s long-term growth plans. The company remains deeply committed to delivering innovation, scientific excellence, and sustainable value in the markets it serves.

This HR Director role is a senior strategic business partner position reporting directly to the BU Head of HR at global headquarters. The role requires close collaboration with senior stakeholders across the country to shape and influence key people priorities. A major focus will be building a robust talent ecosystem that supports long-term capability development and organisational growth. The position will play a critical role in driving continuous development initiatives and ensuring HR strategy aligns with both global and local business needs.

We are seeking a strategic HR leader with proven depth in business partnering and the ability to influence at senior levels. The ideal candidate brings solid experience working within a global matrix organisation, demonstrating agility and confidence in navigating complexity. A strong background in the life sciences sector is essential, along with an understanding of its unique talent and organisational demands. Success in this role requires someone who thrives in a matrixed HR structure and can translate business priorities into impactful people strategies.

This opportunity offers a powerful platform to influence senior leaders and play a direct role in shaping business strategy. You will engage closely with top-level leadership, gaining exceptional visibility and exposure across the organisation. The role provides a meaningful chance to drive impact at the highest levels, contributing to decisions that shape the company’s direction and performance. It is an ideal position for someone who thrives in strategic, high-influence environments.

This role operates at the heart of a deeply matrixed organisation, where navigating diverse stakeholders will be essential. The HR landscape the individual will step into is fast-moving and highly complex, offering both challenge and excitement for the right individual. To succeed, the individual will need to lead change with a careful, considered approach, drawing on strong maturity and proven experience in managing sensitive transformations. It’s a role that demands finesse, resilience, and the ability to influence with credibility.