“Finding the right fit for our team mattered more than the type of employment.”
Finding the right fit for our team mattered more than the type of employment.
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When JinSan Kim, Senior Manager Business Development of Haemonetics, a global healthcare company specializing in blood-related medical devices, faced the challenge of recruiting in a highly specialized and culturally unique industry, the task was anything but straightforward. Over nearly two years of trial and error, Kim experienced firsthand the difficulties of finding talent who could truly align with the company’s values and operational style. Ultimately, the answer came through embracing temporary hiring — a strategic move that changed their hiring approach.
The decision to consider temporary hiring was prompted by the departure of a long-serving Sales Administrator who had held the role for nearly a decade. Given the position’s broad scope—spanning cross-functional collaboration and a wide range of responsibilities—Kim was hesitant to commit to a permanent hire without first ensuring the right fit. A contract-based approach offered a flexible and pragmatic solution.
For Kim, cultural fit and adaptability were just as important as technical skills. Operating in a highly specialized market with few global peers, Haemonetics rarely encounters candidates with direct industry experience. Instead, the company prioritized a growth mindset, strong communication skills, and the ability to navigate multicultural environments across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Flexibility and cross-cultural sensitivity were essential.
However, the initial attempt at temporary hiring through a major search firm proved disappointing. High turnover, last-minute resignations, and poor screening led to mismatched candidates and inefficient use of time. The lack of alignment between the firm and Haemonetics’ needs created more challenges than solutions.
Partnering with Robert Walters Korea significantly improved Haemonetics’ hiring experience. Kim highlights the firm’s ability to quickly and accurately match talent by thoroughly understanding the company’s needs and culture. What set Robert Walters apart was their responsiveness and ability to navigate complex contract processes with speed and precision—delivering a successful hire within just one month.
Kim also addresses common misconceptions around temporary staffing, noting that contract professionals are often undervalued. At Haemonetics, however, all employees are treated equally, regardless of employment type. This inclusive approach fosters better integration and performance.
Effective hiring starts with valuing people for their capabilities—not their contract status.
