Noppong Pongpanichnukul, Director of Human Resources, shares the keys to building loyalty and increasing engagement levels at Jetts 24-Hour Fitness.
As one of the first group of companies to cease operations during the pandemic, Jets 24 Hour Fitness was significantly impacted by the crisis. But the team worked hard to protect the health of its employees, from providing vaccinations to employees to managing compensation should the company be unable to operate.
In recognition of this hard work, the organization received a bronze award for “Excellence in Recovery & Rebound Strategy” at the HR Excellence Awards 2024 in Thailand.
Noppong Pongpanichnukul, Director of Human Resources, shares the keys to building loyalty and increasing engagement levels at Jetts 24-Hour Fitness.
Q: What sparked your passion and business case for pursuing a talent strategy?
We believe that loving our staff is the first step towards becoming the most loved gym. When our team members feel valued and happy, we share that positivity through excellent service to our clients. This core mission resonates deeply with me and highlights the important role of HR in supporting the health and well-being of all employees throughout their tenure.
Our responsibility begins with hiring talented people who align with our vision. We also want to invest in the growth of our team by helping everyone develop their skills in different areas. This allows us to keep up with the fast-paced changes around us. We also ensure that compensation is fair and that rewards and recognition are key to building loyalty and increasing engagement levels.
Q Looking back, what challenges did you overcome in your pursuit of HR excellence? How did you win?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, we were one of the businesses that was significantly affected as our staff were required to have constant direct contact with customers. Therefore, we were the first group to shut down our operations during the pandemic and the last group allowed to reopen. Managing human resources in a business with locations across the country and being heavily impacted has become a major challenge for HR departments.
We worked diligently to provide our employees with access to the vaccine, manage compensation during the period when our company was unable to operate, and ensure effective and timely communication with all team members.
Q Beyond recognition, what impact do you hope the HR Excellence Awards feature will have on the HR community and talent landscape?
This award definitely brings direct and indirect benefits to the organization and all its employees. The immediate benefit is that employees feel proud to be part of a standards-driven organization recognized by a leading company. We’ve also seen a measurable reduction in turnover and an increase in employees referring friends and joining the team.
Additionally, the indirect benefits of this award include recognition from colleagues, partners and clients, as well as improving our HRM standards in line with the nation’s top companies.
Q What advice would you give to others aspiring to follow in your footsteps?
I believe in the role of human resources. Every year, I set work goals and work hard to improve myself. I always seek knowledge and welcome new projects whenever the opportunity arises. Because these experiences reflect my abilities and achievements.
Additionally, I am very happy and proud whenever I have the opportunity to share my HR knowledge and best practices with others, whether they are colleagues, supervisors, students, or anyone who is interested. Insights gained in HR can be effectively applied to everyday life.
Q Let’s talk about inspiration! Who has been the driving force behind your success?
My parents have contributed the most to my success. Then came the management team at Jets 24 Hour Fitness. They provided me with an opportunity to prove myself and showcase my work during the nearly four years I spent here. Finally, I cannot forget the wonderful team members in my department and across the company who have made HR’s work and my own contributions truly worthwhile.
Every organization faces talent challenges, but how these issues are addressed is what truly shows the strength of an HR professional.
Read more interviews about why organizations win trophies for HR practices. Visit our “Winning Tips” section.
Lead image / provided
