Eros Jezreel Gacutan-Ng, Certified Human Resource Professional, was already thriving in the HR space. With years of experience leading recruitment, building HR departments, and scaling operations across Southeast Asia, she wasn’t lacking in qualifications—or leadership responsibilities.
But in 2024, she felt the need for something different. Not another degree. Not a title. But a sharper edge to her practice.
“I was already doing the work. But I wanted to formalize my foundation—to deepen the frameworks behind the strategies I was implementing,” she told Financial Adviser PH. “That’s when I decided to pursue CHRP certification.”
At the time, Eros wasn’t chasing a new job or promotion. Her decision was driven by a desire to lead with more structure, more confidence, and more intention—especially as she stepped into more strategic roles in both corporate and consulting environments.
“It was a self-driven decision. I’ve always believed in lifelong learning. But this time, I wanted something that was local, accessible, and aligned with global HR standards,” she said.
The impact was immediate. Earning her CHRP gave her tools to strengthen performance management, align HR with business goals, and confidently lead change.
“It brought clarity and structure to what I was already doing instinctively. And it helped me earn trust faster when working with executive teams,” she added.
Her certification didn’t just stay on paper. It became a key that opened new doors—consulting projects, speaking engagements, and ultimately, her current role as Head of People & Talent Strategy at Annexion Partners.
Beyond technical knowledge, it gave her something just as powerful: presence.
“My confidence grew—not just in meetings, but in mentoring others. I started guiding younger HR professionals in ways I never thought I could,” she said.
What surprised her most, however, was the community that came with it. “Being part of the CHRP network gave me access to peers, mentors, and perspectives that expanded how I think about people strategy,” Eros said.
In a field evolving with AI, hybrid work, and cross-border compliance, Eros credits one decision with helping her stay ahead—one that didn’t require another degree, but gave her the structure, confidence, and voice to lead with impact.
