My first encounter with HR happened when I was tasked to run the WIN (Work Induction) Secretariat, a combined effort of SNEF, NTUC and NPB some years back. As we were a small team of about ten to 12 persons, I also took care of the full spectrum of HR functions such as staff recruitment, training & welfare, payroll and leave systems.

Why a career in HR? If you weren’t in HR, what would you be doing?

HR is one of the many portfolios I have as a senior vice president for management services at PSB Academy. However after having a chance to experience the different facets of HR, I find that I enjoy interacting with the staff. It is fulfilling to be able to nurture someone to his fullest potential and most satisfying whenever I see staff learning and growing on their jobs.

What do you think will be the role of HR in five years from now?

Instead of being just an operational unit with specific functions, HR will start to take on a strategic role in companies. It will be essential to have HR grow in tune with the overall business strategies and objectives. Better synergies can be achieved when HR policies are formed and implemented to help boost business growth.

What if you can only have only personal item on the desk, what will it be?

My diary. It helps me keep track of my many meetings and appointments.

Which HR function do you like best?

I like the coaching and mentoring of staff best. I like the satisfaction when staff performs exceptionally when given the right opportunities and guidance.

How can HR be more strategic?

Yes HR can be more strategic. HR policies should be formed to aid in achieving company’s business objectives, long term and short term goals.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

It is most rewarding to see colleagues from different departments coming together, cooperate and work well as a team. This is how it should be for any company.

I’d like to think it is partly a result of HR recruiting the right people who can fit into the company culture and complement one another well to achieve results.

I can’t work without my tea to start the day off.

My most daring work decision was taking up and project managing the building and retrofitting the PSB Academy campus@Delta from nothing.

The one best thing HR can do for its employees is seeing to their career and personal growth.

Magdalene Chin

Senior vice president (management services)

PSB Academy