Director, HR Business Partner – APAC

At Barings, we are as invested in our associates as we are in our clients. We recognize those who work diligently for us and reward them for personal and professional integrity, communication skills, distinct competencies and expertise in specific strategies, ability to collaborate as a team member and true dedication to the interests of our clients.

We thank you for your interest in joining the Barings team, and invite you to explore our current employment opportunities.

Title: Director, HR Business Partner – APAC

Business Unit: Human Resources

Location: Sydney, Australia

Barings is a leading global financial services firm dedicated to meeting the evolving investment and capital needs of our clients and customers. Through active asset management and direct origination, we provide innovative solutions and access to differentiated opportunities across public and private capital markets. A subsidiary of MassMutual, Barings maintains a strong global presence with business and investment professionals located across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific.

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced and strategic HR Business Partner (HRBP) to join our global asset management firm, supporting the dynamic and growing APAC region. This Director-level role will serve as a trusted advisor to the Head of APAC/Head of APAC Real Estate, providing high-impact HR consultation and leadership across the region. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in strategic HR partnership, organizational development, and cross-cultural collaboration, with the ability to operate as the senior HR contact across APAC.

This role is pivotal in building and scaling the APAC business, with a strong focus on strategic hiring, maximizing shared services, and developing high-trust relationships across HR and business teams.

Primary Responsibilities

• Strategic HR Partnership:
  Act as a strategic advisor to senior APAC leadership, driving talent strategies that support business growth, transformation, and regional expansion.
• Business Building & Talent Strategy:
  Lead strategic hiring initiatives to attract top talent aligned with business goals. Partner with Talent Acquisition and business leaders to design workforce plans that support new market entry and business scaling. Actively work on succession plans and key talent development.
• Shared Services Optimization:
  Collaborate with global and regional HR teams to leverage shared services, ensuring efficient delivery of HR operations while maintaining a high-touch experience for business leaders.
• Regional Leadership:
  Serve as the senior HRBP contact across APAC, providing guidance and support to HR colleagues and business leaders throughout the region.
• Relationship Management:
  Build and maintain strong, influential relationships with senior stakeholders, HR peers, and cross-functional teams across geographies. Act as a connector and facilitator to drive alignment and collaboration.
• Collaboration & Influence:
  Foster strong relationships across global HR teams and business units, ensuring alignment and consistency in HR practices and policies.
• Talent & Culture:
  Champion initiatives that enhance employee engagement, leadership development, and a high-performance culture across diverse markets.
• Change Management:
  Lead and support change initiatives, including M&A integration, restructuring, and new market entry.
• Compliance & Risk:
  Ensure HR practices are compliant with local labor laws and global standards, mitigating risk and promoting ethical practices.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive HR experience, with at least 5 years in a senior HRBP role supporting executive leadership.
• Experience in financial services, asset management, or a similarly complex global organization.
• Proven success in building and scaling businesses in emerging or growth markets.
• Demonstrated ability to lead strategic hiring initiatives and optimize shared services models.
• Strong understanding of APAC labor laws, cultural nuances, and regional business dynamics.
• Exceptional communication, influence, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to navigate ambiguity and drive strategic outcomes in a fast-paced environment.
• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or HR certification preferred.

Requisite Skills

Additional Skills

Barings is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer; Minority/Female/Age/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Individual with Disability/Protected Veteran. We welcome all persons to apply.