Best HR Leaders from Asia 2024
In a world where talent drives success and innovation, human resource leaders are the unsung heroes behind the scenes, crafting environments where creativity flourishes and potential knows no bounds. TradeFlock is thrilled to unveil its latest edition, Best HR Leaders from Asia 2024, a captivating exploration of the visionary minds shaping the future of work across the continent. This edition features exclusive conversations with Asia’s leading HR leaders from diverse corporate organisations, offering readers a rare glimpse into their strategic thinking, insights, and invaluable leadership lessons. But that’s not all! Beyond the enlightening discussions, this issue is packed with thought-provoking industry insights, engaging articles on sports, history, geopolitics, and other human interest topics that reflect the multifaceted lives of these Leading HR leaders from Asia. Join us on this journey as we celebrate the dynamic landscape of human resources in Asia and the remarkable leaders who are redefining what it means to be at the forefront of people management.
Dr. Murugappan believes that “true leadership begins by understanding the human behind the role.” With over 30 years of experience, he creates environments where employees feel valued and empowered. His innovative initiatives, like the MetaHRise metaverse onboarding experience, redefine HR practices in Asia and inspire employees to embrace change confidently.
Aileen Tan is revolutionising human resources in the Asian insurance industry, tackling talent shortages and an ageing workforce head-on. As a leader at AIA Singapore, her strategic initiatives and inclusive leadership have significantly boosted employee engagement and positioned AIA as a frontrunner in talent development.
As the Senior Vice President and Chief People & Sustainability Officer at TDK Corporation, Andreas Keller stands at the forefront of a crucial shift in HR—transforming sustainability from a mere concept into an essential practice. He champions a human-centred approach that integrates purpose-driven incentives, skill development, and enhanced employee experiences.
As Chief People Officer at Bumrungrad International Hospital, Chutarat Natongbaw is committed to creating a nurturing environment where compassion meets competence. In an industry facing burnout and looming workforce shortages, she focuses on cultivating resilience among healthcare professionals, ensuring they are equipped to handle the emotional and physical demands of their roles.
Karen Lim, Head of HR for Asia Pacific at Skyworks Solutions, combines her IT background and HR expertise to drive strategic initiatives and enhance employee well-being. She has successfully expanded the company’s presence in Asia while championing diversity and inclusion efforts. Recognized as one of the 50 Influential Women in IP in 2023, Karen continues to shape the future of HR in the region.
Lynn blends empathy with strategic execution to foster a people-first culture across diverse markets. Drawing from her experiences as a refugee, she emphasises the importance of belonging and inclusion in the workplace. At Snap, she has implemented mental health initiatives, flexible work policies, and DEI frameworks, significantly enhancing employee engagement and retention.
Rajesh is a key architect of organisational success in Asia’s evolving workplace. With over 15 years of experience in HR roles at major firms like Samsung Engineering and Americana Restaurants, he focuses on blending employee engagement with organisational growth. At GCC Contracting, Rajesh fosters open communication and cross-generational knowledge sharing, ensuring that employees from all backgrounds thrive.
Sharon Kern, Director of People & Culture at Mad Mobile LK, exemplifies the belief that effective HR is about nurturing relationships rather than just enforcing policies. With experience in leading HR at top IT firms in Sri Lanka, she champions a culture where employees can dream big and thrive. Her career reflects a commitment to fostering environments where talent and innovation can flourish.
Subhankar Roy Chowdhury blends innovation with empathy, transforming HR strategies through data analytics and promoting diversity and inclusion. His leadership during the shift to hybrid work post-COVID-19 emphasised flexibility and employee empowerment, earning him recognition for his significant contributions to the HR landscape
Thilan Perera emphasises the role of empathy in fostering inclusive cultures that empower individual contributions and drive organisational success. His impactful career includes navigating complex corporate restructures in Sri Lanka and implementing innovative wellness programs during the pandemic, as well as a holistic compensation scheme to support employees amid the economic crisis.