How would you describe your current role to a HR outsider?
I work with platform/business unit leaders in the country (Indonesia) to ensure the associates can thrive - both as an individual and as a team.
What is a common misconception about the work you do?
This is a "HR representative" role that mostly acts as an extension of the HQ in London. Due to the size of the project and the need of local context understanding, this is similar to a "Country HR" role.
How did you get started in your HR career?
I started as a lecturer and psychologist, then decided to move to Jakarta and start working in startup. As it was a bootstrapped tech company, I didn't do "HR" role as everyone has to do a little bit of everything. After that I moved into a more established digital company and get more focus in HR.
Describe the most impactful HR project you've personally worked on.
Both the scaling up and the scaling down of Zenius. It was very meaningful as it helped pave the way for fundraising up to pre-series B, and also the other way around - the scaling down helped the company survive.
What is one HR/future of work trend or change you're not convinced will work for SEA startups?
The rise of purpose-driven organizations, the trust was broken when most tech startups did mass layoffs. I think it will take some time before HR can confidently say that to candidates again with full conviction.
What is one HR/future of work trend or change that you hope to see more of at SEA startups?
The evolving role of HR that gets closer to business functions. During the tech boom there is no business logic involved (whatever the candidate/employee asks just give it to them - that is why many companies have inflated salaries and headcounts). Now companies actually have to start making sense.
What is your favourite HR resource that you would recommend to this community?
Adam Grant's books and blog.
Lastly, where are you based, and where would you take friends visiting your city for the first time?
South Jakarta, just have them visit Kota Tua :)
