People of TAL

Hazel Chew

Senior Assistant Director, Human Resources

TAL

1. Tell us more about your job.

I lead the HR team at TAL. We develop and implement strategies for all aspects of HR, such as manpower planning, compensation and benefits, performance management, learning and development, and staff or union engagement.

We work in partnership with MOM to check on selected employers whom we assess may not have fairly considered local job seekers.

2. Can you describe a typical day at work?

Black coffee with less sugar is a must for me to start my workday! A typical workday involves meetings with my staff and bosses to plan and discuss HR issues, and clearing submissions and emails.

3. What is something surprising or unusual about your work that most people are unlikely to know?

Most people think HR work is glamorous when they see us at engagement events. But behind every comms, event, and policy are many hours of hard work and deliberation. Many also think HR folks must be extroverts but actually this is not true! Most of my team members are actually “trained” extroverts due to the nature of our work.

Another truth is I don’t control the quantum of bonuses that we receive! :)

4. What keeps you going? What is one guiding principle you live by?

HR is the engine behind TAL. We primarily serve our internal customers, the staff at TAL. It motivates me when staff thank HR for the work that we do. The most rewarding part of my work is seeing individuals grow and thrive in their roles and reflect positive vibes about the work culture. There is no one-size-fits-all strategy in nurturing and developing individuals when they are with TAL. After all, all of us are unique and talented in our own right. Understanding and harnessing one another’s strengths is key to creating a positive TAL culture.

I live by this personal mission statement and share it with all new hires: “Only one Life. Make it count. Live it well.”

5. Tell us how your work made a real difference in someone’s life, and why?

I find it very fulfilling to be able to journey together with new hires, from interviewing them at the start, to observing their growth, both in their personal and work lives.

Don’t undermine how a simple “How are you” can open up a door to a great conversation. I am thankful for this trust built up over the years.

6. What support or help have you received from your co-workers or supervisors to carry out your work?

In mid-2023, I had to juggle between work and taking care of my dad who had multiple chronic health conditions. At the same time, I also had to coach my daughter for her PSLE, amidst other domestic responsibilities.

I had to take a step back and requested to work part-time for a few months. My director readily agreed and even covered some of my duties! My team also chipped in where they could and kept reminding me to log off when it was time for me to do so.

7. Which of the TAL values resonates the most with you?

1. Professionalism
2. People Centredness
3. Passion for Progress
4. Teamwork

Teamwork. An organisation is like a body that is made up of many parts. Every part is important, and the head can’t say to the feet, “I don’t need you!”. For TAL to continue to thrive and carry out our mission effectively, every staff (from the lowest rank to senior management) has a role to play.