Kao Corporation Interview Questions
& Process

It was an unusual interview process because it seemed like they hadn't prepared, but they went ahead with it anyway, expecting me to jump through hoops. I did what they asked, but then they just kind of waited around, as if answering correctly wasn't enough. It was awkward because I didn't get any feedback or response at all.

I had a call scheduled with a recruiter from Kao, on the designated time she called for 10 seconds and then emailed saying she couldn't get through, I called back immediately (still in my allocated interview time) and couldn't get through. I asked for the call to be rescheduled which it was and the exact same thing happened - this time I called back immediately and no answer. I followed up with emails but have since heard nothing.

This was a 6-month process that felt like a waste of my time and expertise. After 6 interviews, a full strategic presentation, and positive reference checks, I was rejected over a degree question. I applied for a leadership role at Kao with 18 years of senior communications experience, including big tech. It turned out to be one of the most disrespectful and disorganized hiring experiences ever. Over 6 months, I did 6 interviews with internal and external people, a 23-slide strategic brand presentation (which got zero feedback), and live reference checks that my referees said went well. I even traveled to Frankfurt/Darmstadt and am still waiting for reimbursement as of July 2025! Then, out of nowhere, they asked if I had a university degree, something never mentioned before. I was rejected right after, with no feedback or explanation. I asked for written feedback directly and was ignored. If a degree is a must-have, ask upfront. Don't collect work, contact references, and make candidates travel if you're not serious. Reimbursing expenses is basic stuff. I expected better from a global company with Japanese heritage and German HQ, especially for a senior leadership role. Instead, it felt like real experience was ignored for basic checks. My advice: even if you're qualified, don't expect professionalism. Ask about non-negotiables early on. Don't assume they'll respect your time or follow through on promises like refunds or feedback. My advice to Kao: This process is bad. If you're not serious, don't waste people's time with months of interviews. Don't ghost candidates after reference checks. And if you ask for strategic work, at least acknowledge it.

It started with an email to set up a first phone call. Then, a phone interview, basically an intro call with the EMEA HR person who talked about the company, the job duties, and specific details. If they liked my profile, the next step was an interview with the manager in France. If that went well too, I had to prepare a business case within a few days and then present it in person to the managers at their offices.