For Samuel Chen, talent acquisition is about more than filling roles; it’s about building teams that help advance safety, sustainability and trust around the world. As a senior talent acquisition advisor supporting the ASEAN and ANZ regions, Samuel brings a strategic, people-centered approach to hiring across diverse markets. In this interview, he reflects on his journey at UL Solutions, the colleagues who shape his experience and the purpose that drives his work.
“One of the most meaningful aspects of my work is contributing to business growth through thoughtful and strategic hiring.”
Tell us about your career at UL Solutions.
I joined UL Solutions in October 2021 as a contractor supporting Talent Acquisition across the ASEAN and ANZ region. In June 2022, I had the privilege of transitioning to a full‑time employee. This milestone affirmed the strong partnerships, collaboration and sense of purpose I had developed during my early time with the organization.
Today, as a senior talent acquisition advisor, I continue to support a diverse and dynamic region, working closely with leaders and teams to meet evolving talent needs.
Please describe what your day-to-day role looks like.
My role encompasses end‑to‑end talent acquisition for multiple countries, aligning hiring strategies with business priorities across varied markets. This includes providing workforce planning insights, advising on market competitiveness, driving sourcing strategies, partnering with leaders on talent decisions and ensuring a positive and consistent experience for candidates and stakeholders.
The regional scope of my work requires adaptability, cross‑cultural communication, and close collaboration with colleagues globally.
Why is creating a safer world important to you?
The UL Solutions mission holds significant meaning for me. Safety, sustainability and trust underpin the work we do, and the people we bring into our organization directly contribute to these outcomes.
Supporting the hiring of talent who advance safety in products, technologies and systems reinforces the larger impact of my purpose and strengthens my connection to the organization’s mission.
How do the people you work with shape your experience at UL Solutions?
The people I work with have been central to my experience at UL Solutions. I am fortunate to collaborate with supportive leaders, engaged hiring managers and dedicated colleagues across Talent Acquisition and HR.
Our regional and cross‑functional teamwork enables us to navigate diverse business needs while maintaining alignment, transparency and shared accountability. The trust and partnership within these teams make a significant difference in our ability to deliver effectively.
What has changed the most about you since you joined UL Solutions?
Since beginning my journey in 2021, I have developed greater resilience, strategic thinking and cross cultural agility. Working across varied markets has enhanced my stakeholder management and communication skills, while reinforcing the importance of adaptability in a fast changing business landscape. My experience at UL Solutions has also strengthened my appreciation for purpose driven work and the value of contributing to a global mission.
What aspect of your role gives you a real sense of meaning or purpose?
One of the most meaningful aspects of my work is contributing to business growth through thoughtful and strategic hiring. I value the opportunity to guide leaders, enhance hiring processes and support decisions that shape the long‑term success of our region.
Additionally, as a team player and people leader, I find great fulfillment in coaching and supporting colleagues, fostering continuous learning and contributing to the development of our Talent Acquisition function.
What are your future ambitions at UL Solutions?
Looking ahead, I aspire to further strengthen talent acquisition capabilities within the region through process improvements, strategic initiatives and capability building. I am committed to contributing to a high‑performing, collaborative TA culture and to taking on broader leadership responsibilities that support our company’s long‑term regional and global workforce priorities.