Up the ranks: Smith appoints Winnie Wong as HR Director for APAC

Based in Hong Kong, Wong will spearhead all HR initiatives across the company's offices in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Seoul, Tokyo, Penang, and Bangalore.

Global distributor of electronic components and semiconductors Smith has recently appointed three new regional HR Directors to strengthen its global HR leadership.

Winnie Wong (pictured above) has been named Director of Human Resources for the APAC region. Based in Hong Kong, Wong will spearhead all human resources initiatives across the company's offices in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Seoul, Tokyo, Penang, and Bangalore, bringing a forward-looking vision rooted in collaboration and inclusivity across the region.

"Smith is a terrific company built on a foundation of excellence, a vibrant culture, and a team of committed individuals who drive our success every day," said Wong.

"I am excited to continue building agile teams, nurturing future leaders, and providing exceptional HR service to help our employees and business succeed."

Wong joined Smith in 2021 as Senior HR Manager, APAC, and has since helped grow the company's Asia-Pacific business through strategic talent acquisition, talent management, organisational development, and employee engagement initiatives.

Joining Wong in the global HR leadership team are Gabriela Anderson and Sandra Francoulon (pictured below, L-R), who have been appointed Directors of Human Resources for the Americas and EMEA regions, respectively.

Anderson joined Smith's HR department in 2021. In her new role, she will focus on driving sustainability and standardisation across the department, as well as building cross-functional and strategic partnerships throughout the region.

Francoulon, a Smith veteran since 2018 who has held various leadership roles, has built a strong HR team in EMEA and led improvements in payroll, compensation, and benefits systems.

Together, the three HR directors will work to enhance the employee experience in their respective regions and cultivate an inclusive culture that supports professional development and growth for the organisation.

"I am incredibly proud to see Sandra, Gabriela, and Winnie take on these well-earned leadership roles within our Human Resources team," said Denise Halaska, Chief People Officer at Smith.

"Each of them has played a pivotal role in shaping the capabilities of our HR function across their regions.

"Their unwavering dedication, insight, and commitment to our people have elevated and strengthened our organisation, and I am confident that we will continue to build a department that drives growth and empowers every Smith employee to thrive."

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Photos / Smith's website