The May 15, 2025 session of The Weekly with JC (WWJC) Leadership and HR Series focused on the timely topic, “The Talent Compass: Aligning Recruitment with Global Trends.” Featured as speaker was Mike Macapagal, Director of People and Culture at JT International Madrid. A seasoned HR executive, Mike brings over 20 years of experience in global companies such as Nestlé, Philips Electronics, Avon, and Standard Chartered Bank. He is widely recognized for his expertise in HR consulting, labor relations, and compensation and benefits strategies. Mike holds degrees from San Beda College, the Philippine Military Academy, and the University of the Philippines’ School of Labor and Industrial Relations.
The Role of Technology in Recruitment
Mike emphasized that the Philippines is not far behind when it comes to global recruitment trends. He highlighted how AI contributes to the process through system-generated job ads and descriptions, resume screening, pre-qualification assessments, and business case evaluations. However, he also pointed out several challenges, such as the need for human interaction, the risks of inaccurate input (“garbage in, garbage out”), and decision-making limitations.
He also discussed other evolving practices such as focusing more on skills than formal qualifications, the rise of TA shared services, recruitment process outsourcing (RPO), and the use of headhunters. Mike stressed the importance of including relevant job ad information, such as salary range, remote or hybrid work options, and the company’s stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), to attract top talent.
Balancing AI with Human Connection
Mike stated that while AI can handle administrative tasks, human connection remains essential. Interviews should still blend evidence and perception, especially in assessing motivation and cultural fit. To remain competitive, he advised embracing 100% work-from-home arrangements in shared service centers, as seen in their Madrid hub, which hires globally.
He encouraged companies to shift away from outdated recruitment practices, such as favoring graduates only from top local universities, and instead focus on relevant skills. This approach aligns more closely with European recruitment standards.
Mike also introduced their “Silver Talent Program,” which engages employees aged 55 and above (Spain’s retirement age is 67) to propose initiatives that leverage their experience. He underscored the importance of inclusivity across all age groups in developing a well-rounded workforce.
Panelists’ Insights on Global Talent Trends
The panelists included Dearden Santiago, Head of Talent Acquisition, PH and Recruitment Enablement at ANZ, and Aleth Delas Armas, Global Talent Leader and Personal Development Coach at EY GDS Philippines, Inc.
Dearden is a seasoned HR and talent acquisition leader with over 15 years of experience. He champions diverse hiring and recruitment enablement across APAC, advocating for persons with disabilities and driving impactful initiatives. He is an expert in strategic recruitment, stakeholder management, and process improvement across shared services, manufacturing, and the banking industry. Dearden has received multiple awards for his contributions to global resourcing.
Aleth brings more than two decades of experience in recruitment, employer branding, process standardization, DEI, and people development from various industries. She led a high-impact human capital project for the Philippines IT-BPM Roadmap for 2022. At her current employer, she received the Leadership Excellence Luminary award. Academically, she completed her MBA with honors and holds certifications in NLP in Human-Centered Design and Generative AI Learning.
Building Relationships and Embracing Diversity
Dearden emphasized the importance of relationship-building with both internal and external talent. He noted that talent acquisition professionals should develop commercial acumen and understand client needs to build influence within the business. While AI tools can support processes, such as in applicant tracking systems (ATS), they are not a standalone solution. Dearden highlighted that his company, in the conservative banking sector, applies rigorous risk assessment before adopting automation. He also noted that talent now evaluates companies based on values and culture, and generational diversity is key to attraction. With an increased focus on transferable skills and workforce upskilling, they strive to move employees to roles matching their capabilities and provide outplacement support when needed.
Aleth echoed similar sentiments, stating that while AI supports recruitment, it depends on the quality of human input. She shared that the system can “remember” how past hiring decisions were made even without interviews. She also spoke on the significance of recognizing six different talent generations, each with unique values and expectations. Today’s job seekers are drawn to organizations with positive cultures, inspiring leadership, and family-oriented opportunities. To become globally competitive, companies must align with global trends while remaining aware of local regulations. Aleth stressed the importance of reading resumes thoroughly, identifying cross-functional competencies, and nurturing relationships, even with unsuccessful candidates. She advised treating AI tools with respect and specificity, like a support staff.
Moderation and Final Thoughts
Moderator Dawnie Maputi, Director for Global People Operations and People Partner Lead (EAST) at Time Doctor, skillfully facilitated the session. Dawnie is a People and Culture leader with deep expertise in HR strategy, remote team performance, and leadership development. He also serves as a Principal Consultant at Partson Human Resources Consultancy, offering tailored HR solutions for SMEs. He shared that his company supports the use of AI, offers 100% remote roles, and does not discriminate based on age or gender.
A Timely and Relevant Discussion
This WWJC session offered timely insights on aligning recruitment practices with global trends. The exchange of perspectives among experts highlights how Philippine organizations can evolve their talent acquisition strategies to compete in the global market while maintaining the human aspect at the core of HR.
Stay Ahead with Smart Recruitment Strategies
Looking to align your hiring practices with global recruitment trends? John Clements Consultants specializes in talent acquisition solutions that blend innovation with a human touch.
Let’s work together to future-proof your workforce. Contact us today.
