International HR Manager Vs Regional HR Manager

If you see a job advertisement for "International HR Manager" - please don't assume that it is similar to a "Regional HR Manager" job post. Read the job description carefully!

In most large MNC organization - "International HR Manager" job scope cover the following: -

• Support expat (full expat / semi expat) or overseas trainees (aka international assignee) who are on international assignment (IA);
• Co-ordinate with home country and host country HR team on HR matters related to an employee on IA;
• Responsible for record-keeping of an international assignee employment contract (compensation, tax, benefits, insurance coverage, entitlement, etc.)
• Organize orientation / assimilating training to prepare an employee who will be assigned to a foreign country;
• Preparing and up-date country orientation material;
• Actively participate in the company talent management procedure and processes e.g., succession plan, performance management records, etc.
• Subject Matter Expert (SME) for a particular group of country culture, religions & people; local country statutory law requirements; economic data; culture management training; etc.

On the other hand, a "Regional HR Manager" job scope may cover the full spectrum of a Human Resource "Generalist"  Manager but perform his / her job from a group or region (North American; Europe, Central Europe, Africa, Asia-Pacific, Oceania, etc.) perspective.

Note: In some European (especially Germans) organization, "Regional HR Manager" is also called "Area HR Manager".