The HARSH REALITIES of HR in Social Services with Lee Jin-Hwui

Rolling into Season 5, Episode 2 of the Rolling Stories podcast, we’re taking a deep dive into the unique and often overlooked challenges of HR in social services. This week, we’re joined by Lee Jin-Hwui, the esteemed Chief People Officer at THKMC, a leader with extensive experience in navigating the complexities of this critical sector. This episode is an essential listen for HR professionals, social sector leaders, and anyone passionate about purpose-driven work.

Our hosts, Adrian Tan and Manu Khetan, engage in a candid and insightful conversation with Lee Jin-Hwui. Together, they explore the difficult realities of managing talent in a sector plagued by high turnover and burnout. The discussion goes beyond surface-level issues, delving into the emotional and professional complexities that social service professionals face daily. Lee Jin-Hwui shares how he and his team at THKMC are not just reacting to these issues, but proactively transforming their workplace culture. Their mission is to empower their staff and demonstrate that these dedicated professionals are, in fact, the true nation builders of our society.

In this episode, we tackle some of the most pressing topics facing the social sector today:

• The delicate balance of purpose-driven work: We explore the powerful rewards that come from making a tangible difference in people’s lives, while also addressing the significant emotional toll and risk of burnout.
• Proven strategies for attracting and retaining talent: Lee Jin-Hwui shares his innovative and effective approaches for building a resilient, passionate, and dedicated workforce, even in a competitive talent market.
• How AI is reshaping social services in 2025: We demystify the role of technology in the sector, discussing how AI is being leveraged not to replace, but to support staff and enhance the quality of care and services provided.
• Busting common myths about careers in this field: This segment provides a refreshing and honest look at what it’s truly like to work in social services, challenging misconceptions and highlighting the diverse and rewarding career paths available.

This powerful episode offers actionable insights and a fresh perspective on a sector that is more important than ever. Whether you’re an HR leader looking for innovative retention strategies, a social sector professional seeking validation and new ideas, or simply an individual interested in the future of work, this podcast is for you.
Tune in now and join the conversation!

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