Meet Rachel Foo 👋
Rachel Foo is a seasoned regional Human Resources leader with more than 25 years of experience across APAC and different industry segments. Currently, she is the Country HR Head and HRBP SEATW. She is passionate about creating an inclusive and trusted environment where collaboration and empathy thrive.
Insights from Rachel Foo
1) On Culture: What’s one thing you or your team does regularly to build a strong, positive workplace culture?
Fostering collaboration and open communication like regular check-ins, exchange of ideas and perspectives, informal social gatherings, and celebrating small wins helps to build a strong, supportive, and positive workplace culture.
2) On Impact: What’s one HR initiative you led or supported that made a clear impact on your team or company? What changed because of it?
Merck is a long-standing market leader in fertility. Most recently, we are proud to launch our new Fertility Benefit globally to our employees as we understand the tremendous emotional and financial burden infertility can have on individuals and families. This is an example of how Merck prioritizes employee well-being and fosters a culture where all can belong, grow, and thrive! To me, this is an impactful initiative that impact lives.
3) On the Future: What’s one key skill or mindset you think every HR professional in Singapore will need in the next 5 years - and why?
A mindset focused on agility and adaptability will be crucial. As the workplace evolves at an unprecedented pace, HR professionals must be able to pivot and respond to changing market conditions, employee needs, and technological advancements. Take courage and step up to lead change and drive transformation.
4) What’s one HR initiative or practice you believe more companies should adopt to build stronger teams or workplaces — and why?
Mentorship program can foster stronger relationships between employees, enhance professional development, and create a culture of knowledge sharing. Such guidance, support, and insights can accelerate an individual’s career growth, empower individuals to reach their full potential and promote a thriving workplace.
5) What’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone just starting their career in HR or people leadership?
I would say to embrace continuous learning and adaptability. The HR landscape is constantly evolving due to changes in technology, workforce dynamics, and organizational needs. Staying curious and open to new ideas will help us navigate these changes effectively. Always think people first and see them as whole persons.
6) What’s one workplace trend you’re excited about — and one you’re cautious of?
One trend that is exciting is the increased focus on employees’ well-being and mental health. More companies are recognizing the importance of supporting their employees holistically. This trend not only enhances employee satisfaction but also fosters a supportive and empathetic workplace culture.
A trend to be cautious of is the over-reliance on technology and automation in HR processes. While technology can streamline operations and improve efficiency, there is a risk that it may lead to a de-humanized employee experience. Machines cannot replicate the creativity and problem-solving skills of humans. It is vital to strike a balance between leveraging technology and maintaining meaningful human interactions. Hence, we must ensure employees still feel valued and connected, even as organizations adopt more automated solutions.
Connect with Rachel Foo
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As Singapore marks 60 years of progress, SG60: 60 People Leaders Shaping Workplaces honours the people leaders building cultures where people thrive.
Each spotlight captures authentic experiences and actionable wisdom from HR professionals making a difference in Singapore’s evolving world of work.