Role Overview
Ensure accurate and timely payroll processing across APAC countries, with a primary focus on Japan. This role manages outsourced payroll operations, maintains effective communication with internal stakeholders and vendors, and ensures full compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements.
Key Responsibilities
End-to-End Payroll Processing
- Manage the full-cycle payroll process for Japan (monthly and annual cycles)
- Provide support for additional APAC countries where required
Payroll Data & Record Management
- Maintain and update payroll records, including joiners, leavers, and master data changes
- Ensure accuracy and completeness of all payroll-related documentation
Employee & Stakeholder Support
- Act as the main point of contact for payroll-related queries from employees and management
- Deliver timely, accurate, and professional responses
Reporting & Reconciliation
- Prepare and deliver accurate monthly and annual payroll reports
- Support reporting to tax authorities, statutory bodies, and pension offices
- Provide General Ledger (GL) data and reconcile payroll accounts with the Finance team
Statutory Compliance
- Ensure timely submission of statutory filings and payments
- Maintain compliance with all local payroll regulations and legal deadlines
Payroll Operations & Controls
- Manage payroll vendor operations, including performance monitoring and issue resolution
- Maintain strong financial and operational controls aligned with SOX requirements
Payroll Processing Activities
- Process payroll components including:
- Allowances and deductions
- Bonuses and merit cycles
- Variable pay (e.g., overtime, leave, provisions)
- Employee stock options and expatriate shadow payroll
Systems & Interface Management
- Manage payroll system interfaces, including file imports/exports
- Troubleshoot and resolve data or system-related issues
Continuous Improvement
- Drive process improvements within payroll operations
- Implement employee-centric enhancements to improve efficiency and experience
Qualifications
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or equivalent
- Minimum 5 years of payroll experience, with a strong focus on Japan payroll
- Solid understanding of payroll legislation and processes
- Fluency in Japanese (spoken and written)
- Knowledge of expatriate payroll, including shadow payroll
- Strong attention to detail and numerical accuracy
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
- Experience in shared service environments
- Familiarity with systems such as Workday and ServiceNow
- Experience managing payroll vendor transitions or projects
Preferred Qualifications
- Strong commitment to continuous improvement and customer service
- Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
- Team-oriented mindset with excellent organizational skills
