Roselin Lee, Shiseido Asia Pacific’s VP of HR, on championing growth and diversity

The Her World Mentorship Programme returns with a focus on supporting women re-entering the workforce. This year’s mentors share what inspired them to take part.

When Roselin Lee joined Shiseido Asia Pacific in 2016, she was the first non-Japanese female executive on the regional executive team.

“I felt a mix of excitement and responsibility. It was an honour to break new ground, but I also knew that I had to prove myself and pave the way for future leaders from diverse backgrounds,” she says.

With over 34 years of experience in HR, Roselin is no stranger to the importance of cultivating a supportive work environment that fosters diversity and talent development. Organisations should strive to create a robust culture by fostering an environment characterised by trust, open communication and continuous learning.

Building such a culture involves encouraging employees to freely share their knowledge and experiences, thereby enriching the collective expertise of the organisation, she adds.

When asked about the most valuable piece of advice she has received, Roselin stands by the ethos of always staying curious, embracing the process of unlearning and relearning, and to never stop learning.

“This mindset has been instrumental in my continuous growth and adaptation throughout my career. I look forward to learning from my mentees, gaining fresh perspectives and growing together,” says Roselin.

What inspired you to volunteer as a mentor for the Her World mentorship programme?

I’m passionate about ensuring that individuals are placed in roles where they can thrive, and are provided with opportunities for growth and development. Volunteering as a mentor for the Her World Mentorship Programme allows me to share my experiences and insights, while helping individuals navigate their professional paths.

Has mentorship influenced your personal or professional growth?

When I first entered the beauty cosmetics industry, I was unfamiliar with its intricacies, and faced numerous challenges in navigating a highly matrixed and fast-paced work environment. I decided to approach a respected business leader, despite being warned that she was intimidating, and asked if she could be my sounding board when I felt stuck or uncertain.

Without hesitation, she responded, “Sweetie, don’t be shy to ask [me] questions anytime.”

In addition to my regular monthly updates on HR matters with her, I dedicated time during these meetings for mentoring. Since then, mentorship has been instrumental in my personal and professional growth, offering invaluable guidance and support during challenging times.

How does one make the most of a mentorship opportunity?

Investing time, being proactive, and remaining open to feedback are essential components of a successful mentorship experience. It is crucial to approach mentorship with a willingness to learn and grow.

Actively seeking advice and building a strong, trusting relationship with your mentor can significantly enhance the benefits that you receive.

By doing so, you can fully leverage the guidance and support offered, ultimately maximising the positive impact on your personal and professional development

PHOTOGRAPHY Angela Guo
ART DIRECTION Ray Ticsay & Adeline Eng
STYLING Donson Chan
HAIR Angel Gwee, using Davines & Marc Teng
MAKEUP Benedict Choo & Nicole Ang / Suburbs, both using Cle de Peau Beaute
COORDINATION Chelsia Tan & Syed Zulfahdli

Special thanks to SCWO and Boardagender for their help and support with the Her World Mentorship Programme 2025.