Exploring the Real Connection Between Business and HR in Japan's Corporate World

Event Report: The Dialogue for HRBP

On September 20, 2025, Trustyyle, a company headquartered in Chuo-ku, Tokyo, organized a gathering titled "Exploring the Role of HRBP: Bridging Business and HR" at their community space known as the HR Library. The event aimed to facilitate discussions surrounding the HR Business Partner (HRBP) role, focusing on the real challenges and opportunities in connecting human resources with business strategies.

Background and Purpose

HRBPs have a vital role in fostering both business growth and individual development within organizations. Yet, the understanding and implementation of this role can vary widely across companies. Many HR professionals often feel confused about their responsibilities, expressing sentiments like, "I don't know what I'm supposed to do" or "I'm caught in between management and operational teams."

To address these issues, the HR Library—created as a supportive community for HR professionals—invited active HRBPs to facilitate meaningful dialogues among participants. The goal was to gain a clearer understanding of how HRBPs can effectively fit into their respective organizational structures and inspire actionable strategies for the future.

Event Details

- Date: September 20, 2025 (Saturday)
- Time: 14:00 - 16:30
- Location: HR Library, 6F WACROSS NINGYOCHO, 1-12-7, Kakigaracho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo

Participant Feedback

The event concluded on a high note, with numerous participants sharing their satisfaction through post-event surveys. Here are some of the comments received:

- "This event helped clarify the previously ambiguous concept of HRBP. The discussion on the 9-matrix model and organizational types was incredibly actionable."
- "The warm and relaxed atmosphere made it easy to share thoughts and feelings. It was refreshing to hear everyone else’s challenges and solutions—it energized me!"
- "Hearing perspectives from HRBPs aligned with both HR departments and business divisions provided invaluable learning opportunities about differing concerns and viewpoints."
- "The candid remarks about HRBP challenges, such as being seen as a 'punching bag,' resonated deeply. I felt inspired to take on new challenges post-event."

Key Outcomes and Future Directions

This event proved to be pivotal in enhancing participants' understanding of the HRBP role. Many left equipped with concrete insights to implement in their own organizations. Additionally, the gathering fostered networking opportunities among HR professionals facing similar challenges, creating a supportive community.

The HR Library, with the tagline "Learn with Friends to Unlock the Future," plans to continue offering practical learning and networking opportunities in various HR-related themes. Upcoming events will be announced through the official website and social media channels, encouraging ongoing engagement among professionals in the field.

Facilitators

Shugo Horiguchi

HR Business Partner at Kansai Airport
group. Shugo has successfully promoted hiring, talent development, and organizational growth. He connects management strategies with workforce planning to ensure sustainable company growth, integrating hands-on experience with strategic insight.

Yamachan (HR Library CET)

With 13 years of experience across various sectors, including manufacturing and telecommunications, Yamachan actively strives to connect business and HR strategies for organizational success.

Kurumin (HR Library Event Planning)

Kurumin transitioned from a career in sales and customer success in an IT venture to human resources. Currently, she focuses on talent and organizational development while also working as a professional coach.

About the HR Library

The HR Library opened on April 1, 2024, in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, offering a coworking space and community for HR-related professionals. With over 2,500 HR-related books and more than 600 members, it operates under the motto "Learn with Friends to Unlock the Future."