Efren S. Pabaya, CHRP, stands as a testament to the power of adaptable HR leadership with over two decades of multinational experience spanning the Philippines, Middle East, Australia, and the United States. Currently serving as Senior Project Manager and HR Business Partner for a U.S.-based firm, Efren masterfully navigates cross-border HR initiatives in a fully remote environment, demonstrating exceptional skill in aligning global talent strategies with business objectives. His career journey reflects remarkable versatility, having contributed to diverse sectors including energy, financial services, manufacturing, and education across four continents.
Prior to his current role, Efren served as HR Business Partner and Recruitment Consultant for an Australian energy company, where he specialized in international hiring and performance management systems. His unique background includes financial planning administration in Sydney and a decade-long tenure with Almarai Company in Saudi Arabia, where he developed deep expertise in multicultural workforce management. “True HR leadership transcends borders—it’s about understanding the universal human element in every workplace,” Efren emphasizes. With academic credentials including a BSBA in Management, Certificate in Teacher Education, and ongoing MBA studies, Efren combines operational acumen with a genuine passion for people development.
The CHRP Certification: A Transformative Career Milestone
How He Discovered the CHRP Program
Efren first encountered the CHRP certification through “The Philippine HR Group” on Facebook, which ultimately facilitated his training. After years of international experience, he recognized the program as an ideal way to reconnect with and formalize his HR expertise within the Philippine context. The discovery came at a pivotal moment when, despite working in financial planning, he consistently found himself drawn back to HR responsibilities—a sign he couldn’t ignore.
Why He Pursued CHRP Certification
The decision to pursue CHRP certification was driven by Efren’s desire to validate his extensive experience and refresh his knowledge of Philippine HR practices after years abroad. “I wanted to formalize my HR experience and strengthen my professional credibility. It was also a way to catch up on current HR practices in the Philippines after working abroad for so long,” he recalls. He also added, ” I was previously focused on financial planning, but I kept getting tapped to help with recruitment tasks, even in my last Australian firm. That reminded me that HR is where I truly excel. Also, a seasoned HR told me that I have a heart of an HR which is my asset”. Though initially considering a career in Australian financial planning, the persistent pull toward HR convinced him to recommit to the field where he naturally excelled.
How CHRP Transformed His Professional Trajectory
“The moment I got certified, opportunities came. Even during the training, I received a job offer. CHRP helped bridge the gap between my overseas experience and the current HR scene in the Philippines.”
The CHRP certification served as a powerful career catalyst for Efren. Remarkably, he received a job offer even before completing the program, demonstrating the immediate value of the credential. The certification successfully bridged his international experience with current Philippine HR standards, opening doors to strategic roles including his current position. Additionally, it qualified him for opportunities in academia as a Senior High School Teacher (ABM).
Beyond career advancement, the CHRP designation significantly boosted Efren’s professional confidence and credibility. “The certification speaks volumes—it tells employers you’re not just experienced, but properly trained and certified,” he notes. The CHRP community has further enriched his practice through webinars and networking opportunities, keeping him connected to industry trends and best practices. Today, Efren continues to leverage his CHRP foundation to drive organizational success while mentoring the next generation of HR professionals.