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Event Report: Discussing HRBP at the HR Library

On November 26, 2025, Trustyyle, led by CEO Yosuke Yoshida, hosted the event titled "Exploring HRBP: Lessons from Real Cases" at the HR Library located in Nihonbashi, Tokyo. This event fostered an engaging exchange of insights among HR professionals focused on the vital role of HR Business Partners (HRBPs). The event's primary aim was to illuminate the nuanced reality of HRBPs, which often varies significantly across different organizations depending on their culture and stage of development.

Background and Purpose

As strategic personnel management gains prominence, the role of HRBP has come into the spotlight. However, the actual practices and expectations surrounding HRBPs can often be inconsistent, leading to complications in establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) and maintaining proximity to business operations. The HR Library, which serves as a community for HR professionals, designed this study session to address these challenges by facilitating discussions on the real situations that may not be captured in textbooks or general discussions.

Highlights from the Event

During the event, participants delved into eight critical themes regarding the role of HRBPs, sparking vibrant discussions. Here are some key points:

The Reality on the Ground: Building Trust through Engagement

One particularly lively discussion centered on maintaining proximity to employees. Participants shared experiences of physically visiting different departments, referring to this practice as "walking around." They acknowledged the challenges faced, including occasionally being met with curiosity or wariness, as attendees resonated with these real-life anecdotes.

KPIs and Role Distribution of HRBPs

Participants presented concrete examples of using metrics such as "business alignment" and "engagement surveys." They openly discussed past missteps involving friction with recruiting teams and Centers of Excellence (CoE), leading to the conclusion that establishing a foundation of trust among HR colleagues is vital for the success of HRBPs.

Essential Attitudes and Mindsets for HRBPs

Discussions emphasized the importance of viewing business metrics from the perspective of the operational team rather than solely adopting an HR-centric approach. Furthermore, participants noted the necessity of dedicating time to engage with employees actively, emphasizing the significance of planning "walking time" into their schedules despite competing administrative duties. Resources should be allocated toward relationship building, thereby fostering an environment where HRBPs are viewed as credible voices within their organizations.

Recommended Readings

1. "What HR Professionals Do to Propel Business Growth" by Yosuke Yoshida (Director of the HR Library)
2. "The Current Ideal Shape of HR Departments" published by Recruit Works Institute

Feedback from Participants

Post-event surveys reflected a positive reception, with many attendees expressing that their understanding of HRBP complexities had deepened. Here are a few of the participant quotes:

• - "I've come to realize that no role varies as much as HRBP depending on the company. I learned how crucial collaboration is."
• - "Beyond mere textbook definitions, I gained a broader understanding of HRBP through the diverse insights shared."
• - "I found the discussion on knowledge-sharing among BP experts particularly enlightening."

Main Outcomes and Future Directions

The event reinforced the idea that the HRBP role transcends job titles; it encapsulates the essence of building relationships between operations and management. The HR Library will continue providing a platform for practitioners to share real-world challenges and victories, enhancing the professional community.

About the HR Library

Established on April 1, 2024, the HR Library is a coworking and community space in Ningyocho, Tokyo, for HR professionals. Boasting over 2,500 HR-related books and more than 700 members, its mission is captured in its tagline, "Learning with peers to forge ahead into the future."

Location: 1-12-7 Nihonbashikakigaracho, Chuoku, Tokyo 6F, WACROSS NINGYOCHO
Website: hr-library.jp
Official X: x.com/hr_library0401
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hr-library