Jobs & employment blogs

4 QUESTIONS WITH YOKE PEI ONG, COUNTRY MANAGER, HAYS THAILAND

Hays recently opened its door to the latest addition to its Asia offices, Hays Thailand. Yoke Pei Ong, fresh in her role as Country Manager, Hays Thailand, gives us the story behind this new Hays chapter and what it means to be leading a new business at a time when innovation and reinvention is at full force for the organisation globally.

Q. How did the story of Hays Thailand begin?

The story of Hays Thailand actually started further down south instead of in Thailand. The success we saw with Hays Malaysia certainly played a big part in getting the ball rolling. Since its inception, the Malaysia business quickly went to dominate the market and recently celebrated a huge ten-year milestone. With Thailand’s proximity to Malaysia and the large number of international and domestic companies with investments and operations in various industries in Thailand, the country has always been part of our regional expansion plan to grow our footprint in Asia.

Not only is Thailand a dynamic and steadily growing economy, with IMF data placing it the second largest economy in Southeast Asia, its strategic location and trade connections also makes it a gateway into the larger Asian market. Moreover, with the region entering a post-pandemic phase, Thailand is seeing rapid recovery as well as the rise of a qualified and skilled workforce with English language capabilities. Knowing this, we’re fully committed to helping our businesses and professionals within and outside of Thailand capitalise on the opportunities that are available to them in the market. 

Q. What are the key priorities of the Hays Thailand business?

First on the list is to build up our pioneering Hays Thailand team. We’re in the process of identifying and hiring a mix of experienced and fresh talent to join us in establishing a strong and dynamic team in Thailand. To do this, we’ve not only been interviewing potential candidates but have also kickstarted assessment centres in the country to pathways for talent acquisition. We have already onboarded ten recruiters and our priority will be to develop and empower the Thailand team to be a key part of the business, which will drive strategic business development and long-term partnerships.

Equally important are to meet our clients’ recruiting needs in Thailand and maximising our support to them so we continue to make an impact on their business. To achieve this, at the top of our to-do list is building a pool of high-calibre talent with skills to fit diverse roles. At the same time, we’ll also take steps to venture into new businesses and opportunities in Thailand. Key industries we’re keen to tap into and grow our expertise in include commercial, manufacturing, and technology, especially given the volume of new hybrid and niche roles that have been created in the latter.  

Q. What are some challenges you foresee within the first year of the new business?

The first year will undoubtedly be a year full of new learnings as we build the business and work on attracting top talent to embark on this new journey with us. We’re keen to expand our knowledge of and experience within the country, which means we’ll need to be agile and open to the ways of doing business in a new market. Additionally, people are at the heart of our business. Thus, it is paramount for us to strengthen our understanding of our clients and candidates and form real connections with them, so we can effectively differentiate ourselves and set a new standard in the industry.

Q. What excites you about this new role?

Hays Thailand came at the most opportune time. Hot on the heels of our recent brand refresh, it’s a clear indicator of our promise to our customers, to provide the tools, insights, and solutions to shape their careers and workforces, so we empower their success, tomorrow.

On a personal level, it’s a meaningful opportunity to be able to shape and create a sustainable future for a fledgling business. There will be many challenges, surprises, and ups and downs, but I believe they will help drive my thinking forward, both personally and professionally. But the most exciting thing about this move in my career is being able to relocate to an amazing place like Bangkok. I can’t wait to see what’s in store in this new chapter of my Hays story!

Discover about the latest job vacancies and hiring trends in Thailand on our expert website at www.hays.co.th. Find your next role here or get more insights at www.hays.co.th/advice-services. Recruiting? Get in touch. 

Keen to grow your career in recruitment? Start your own Hays story by sending us your CV at ThailandCareers@hays.co.th and our talent acquisition team will be in touch.