Hong Lee Lau started her career in IT, never expecting to transition to a new function several years on. She also never expected that career switch to lead to a storied career in Human Resources that would include various assignments around the world. After a six-year assignment in Taiwan, Hong Lee headed home, intending to leave HR behind for a fresh chapter. Little did she know that another unexpected twist for her career that was about to come her way.

Upon returning to Malaysia, Hong Lee was exploring industries like real estate when Dinie, Manager at Robert Walters Malaysia, came knocking with an enticing opportunity: a HR Director role for a leading hygiene company.

Hong Lee wasn’t sure about returning to HR again, and furthermore, she also didn’t have experience in some of the Southeast Asian countries that this role would be responsible for. But Dinie’s encouragement prompted her to mull it over.

I’m grateful I had that conversation with Dinie about pursuing this opportunity in a function I’m still passionate about.

“I realised that I was still deeply passionate about HR. I enjoy collaborating and interacting with people across different levels and seniorities. Seeing people grow and helping them stay engaged and motivated brings me a great sense of achievement and happiness,” she reflects. “So, I decided to follow my heart.”

Dinie’s in-depth knowledge about the HR function showed through his interactions with Hong Lee. “He provided sharp insights into the role and the company, guiding me through every step of the hiring process,” she says. He had also felt that Hong Lee’s past experience working across diverse cultures would be a great asset for the role. Those instincts were proven to be right as the company quickly marked Hong Lee as their candidate of choice and made her an offer.

The support from Robert Walters didn’t end there. Dinie still checks in with Hong Lee to hear how she’s getting along, knowing that she has a lot to adapt to after six years away from home and 15 years at her previous company.

While she sees that these challenges are stepping stones for her personal growth, Hong Lee also credits the Robert Walters team for being a wonderful source of support. “The consultants are all so friendly and professional. They truly seek to build lasting connections with the clients and candidates – evident from how Dinie continues to keep in touch even beyond my placement into this role.”

“Just as I’ve told young people who are early on in their careers to explore and try new things, I’m glad I encouraged myself to be open-minded,” Hong Lee concludes. “I’m grateful I had that conversation with Dinie about pursuing this opportunity in a function I’m still passionate about.”