Deanna Yap

Deanna Yap has a diverse work experience spanning over two decades. Deanna currently holds the position of Chief People Officer, Southeast Asia at Smollan since August 2023. Prior to this, they worked at Lazada as the Senior Vice President of Leadership Development & Talent Management until August 2023, and also served as the Senior Vice President of HR Projects from July 2022 to November 2022.

Before their time at Lazada, Deanna had a long tenure at DKSH, where they held various roles including Head of Human Resources APAC DKSH Smollan Field Marketing, Director of Human Resources in Indonesia and the Philippines, and Director of Group HR Operational Excellence and Projects. Additionally, they worked as the General Manager of Talent, Organization & Performance and Deputy General Manager of Talent, Organization & Performance. Deanna'stime at DKSH spanned from December 2011 to June 2022.

Deanna also gained valuable experience at PwC Malaysia, where they worked as a Senior Manager, Manager, Assistant Manager, and Senior Executive, holding different positions between November 2005 and November 2011.

Deanna started their career at Kapient as a Research Consultant, responsible for business development activities and recruitment initiatives from June 2003 to May 2004.

Prior to that, Deanna worked as a PA to the Chief Operating Officer at Plato Solutions Sdn Bhd from May 2004 to October 2005. Overall, Deanna Yap's work history showcases their extensive experience in human resources and leadership development roles across a variety of industries.

Deanna Yap holds a Master's degree in Industrial Relations and Human Resource Management from Keele University, which they obtained in 2002. Prior to that, they completed their Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Human Resource Management from Keele University in 2001. Deanna is currently pursuing an MCIPD degree from The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development. Deanna has also obtained additional certifications in Design Thinking and Creativity for Business from INSEAD and Certified Digital Marketing Professional from the Digital Marketing Institute in 2019.