HR Business Partner - Shanghai

MAISON POLENE

Founded in 2016, the French leather goods brand Polène stands out for its exceptional artisanal craftsmanship, creating timeless pieces with organic designs directly inspired by nature.

In a context of strong growth and international expansion, we are structuring our operations in 2025 and surrounding ourselves with top talent to develop deep expertise at every level of our organization. Our distinctly artistic positioning supports the elevation of our handbag and jewelry collections, backed by 800 artisans in our workshops located in Ubrique, Spain.

The story of Polène can be written with you: join us and take part in this journey behind the scenes at our Paris headquarters, already home to more than a hundred people driven by our shared passion for craftsmanship.

As a part of the People and Culture Team

As we continue to structure and strengthen our function, we aim to support managers in shaping and scaling their teams. Within this context, we are looking for a highly collaborative and proactive Human Resources Business Partner to support our retail operations in China. Based in our Shanghai office and reporting to the HQ HR Manager in Paris, you will be responsible for managing day-to-day HR matters, as well as leading local HR strategies and initiatives.

As the primary HR contact for our Chinese store teams, you will play a key role in attracting top talent, supporting the teams in our existing boutiques, and contributing to the successful opening of new locations across the region. This role is pivotal in anchoring our HR presence locally and driving a people-first approach as we continue to grow.

Main responsabilities

Talent Acquisition :

• Manage end-to-end recruitment processes for office and retail positions.

• Partner with HQ Talent Acquisition Manager and store leadership to understand hiring needs and identify candidates aligned with our brand values.

• Implement sourcing strategies to attract diverse and qualified talent.

Onboarding & Retention :

• Oversee onboarding processes to ensure a smooth integration for new hires.

• Develop initiatives to enhance employee engagement and retention.

Payroll Management and HR Administration :

• Coordinate payroll processes with external payroll providers to ensure accuracy and compliance.

• Validate payroll data, including timesheets, bonuses, and deductions.

• Address payroll-related inquiries and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.

• Manage employee records, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality of personal and professional information.- Oversee employment documentation, including contracts, amendments, and terminations.

• Support visa and work authorization processes when required.

HR Partnership :

• Act as the primary HR point of contact for employees, providing guidance and support on HR policies, procedures, and employee relations.

• Collaborate with managers to foster a positive workplace culture and ensure alignment with company values.

• Address employee concerns and mediate conflicts as needed.

Performance Management :

• Support managers in performance reviews, goal setting, and development plans.

• Provide coaching and feedback to managers on HR-related matters.

Compliance & Reporting :

• Ensure compliance with local labor laws and company policies.

• Maintain accurate HR records and generate reports as needed.

Office Management & Events :

• Oversee day-to-day office management and general services, ensuring a seamless and efficient working environment.Plan and execute events and initiatives to foster collaboration, celebrate milestones, and enhance the employee experience.

• You have at least 7 yers of HR experience in China.  Experience in the luxury/high-end retail sector is preferred

• You hold a Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business administration or other related field

• You understand payroll systems and external provider coordination

• You have a demonstrated knowledge of employment law, employee relations best-practices, presentation skills, and recruiting practices

• You are able to multi-task, work in ambiguity and adapt to competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

• You have strong relationship-building skills, as well as analytical and problem-solving skills.

• You are OK with traveling domestically when needed.

• You are fluent in english and chinese

Application Process

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and cover letter outlining their qualifications and relevant experience in english.

Polène is committed to ensuring inclusive recruitment processes and to selecting and promoting each candidate in an ethical and fair manner.