TAFEP Hero 2026 Sep
Faces of HR: Mark Hernandez on balancing compassion with high expectations in HR

Faces of HR: Mark Hernandez on balancing compassion with high expectations in HR

"SLAs and KPIs still matter but creating HR impact is how you bring value to the organisation," says the Head of Human Resources - South Luzon, International Container Terminal Services.

A great day in HR for Mark Hernandez (pictured above) is one where customer needs are met, and practical solutions are mapped out to help the business move forward.

As Head of Human Resources – South Luzon at International Container Terminal Services, Hernandez brings close to 30 years of HR leadership experience across oil & gas, FMCG, telecommunications, automotive, financing, shipping, and logistics. He has led HR and shared services functions across diverse organisations, helping drive employee development, organisational effectiveness, team performance, and business-aligned people priorities.

Ahead of his session at Transform Talent 2026 – Philippines, Hernandez catches up with Mary Ann Bundukin on why transparency is central to engagement, how he balances compassion with high expectations, and why HR must look beyond service measures to create meaningful value for the organisation.

Read the full interview below

Q What does a great day at work look like for you, and how does it remind you why you love HR?

A great day would mean meeting the needs of our customers, and being able to map out solutions to their needs.

Q What's one strategy you've found most effective in keeping employees engaged and committed?

Transparency - they deserve to know what is going on within the organisation, understanding where the company wants to be and how they can contribute in achieving it.

Q In three words, how would you describe your leadership philosophy?

"Compassionate but Demanding!"

Could you tell us one thing about you that people might be surprised to know?

That I was doing ultramarathons and I don't like snakes.

Q As a speaker at #TransformTalentPH, what is the #1 call to action you hope for attendees to take away from your session?

SLAs and KPIs still matter but creating HR impact is how you bring value to the organisation.


I want to attend the conference: If you're keen to attend this closed-door conference, kindly register your interest hereFor speaking opportunities, please write in to Mary Ann Bundukin. We look forward to welcoming you!

I want to sponsor: 
Engage in meaningful dialogue through dedicated speaking slots, roundtable discussions, and at your booths! If your organisation provides any talent solutions and products that you'd like to showcase, you’ll fit right into this event. To learn how you can sponsor, please reach out to a member of our team now!


Photo / Provided

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