Talent & Tech Asia Summit 2024
Up the ranks: BW Group calls on Sophie Smith as Chief Human Resources Officer

Up the ranks: BW Group calls on Sophie Smith as Chief Human Resources Officer

Based in Singapore, Smith was most recently HR Director, Asia Pacific at Experian. In her new role, she will focus on developing a people and culture strategy to deliver a compelling employee experience, to attract, develop and retain the best talent in the maritime industry.

Effective 12 August 2021, Sophie Smith will take on the global role of Chief Human Resources Officer at maritime company BW Group, reporting in to Chairman Andreas Sohmen-Pao.

Based in Singapore, Smith was most recently HR Director, Asia Pacific at Experian, a global information services company.

As shared with Human Resources Online, in this new role, Smith will be "accountable for the people and culture strategy of BW Group, creating a workplace where people feel inspired, valued and fulfilled so that they deliver their best performance to help the company continue to grow." She will partner closely with the BW Group Executive Committee and Chairman on the strategic growth plans of the organisation.

When asked about her number priority in this role for the coming year, she said: "(It will be to) develop a people and culture strategy that ensures the organisation delivers a compelling employee experience, enabling it to attract, develop and retain the best talent in the maritime industry."

Further to sharing about her new role, Smith noted the number one talent concern faced in Singapore at the moment.

She shared: "There are several HR trends which have accelerated during the pandemic. Talent are increasingly seeking a working culture which embraces flexibility and a hybrid way of working, with time spent in both the workplace and at home.

"This requires adjustments to be made across people, technology and real estate strategies. There are notable cultural and commercial opportunities from a hybrid way of working."


Photo / Provided 

Follow us on Telegram and on Instagram @humanresourcesonline for all the latest HR and manpower news from around the region!

Follow us on Telegram and on Instagram @humanresourcesonline for all the latest HR and manpower news from around the region!

Free newsletter

Get the daily lowdown on Asia's top Human Resources stories.

We break down the big and messy topics of the day so you're updated on the most important developments in Asia's Human Resources development – for free.

subscribe now open in new window