APAC Payroll Specialist

Argus is where smart people belong and where they can grow. We answer the challenge of illuminating markets and shaping new futures.

What were looking for

The APAC Payroll Specialist is responsible for managing and executing end-to-end payroll processes across multiple countries in the Asia-Pacific region. This role ensures compliance with local statutory regulations, manages vendor relationships, and supports continuous improvement initiatives in payroll operations. Reporting to the Global Payroll Manager and collaborating closely with HR, Benefits, Finance, and business stakeholders, the successful candidate will play a key role in global payroll delivery.

You will process accurate and timely payroll for 500+ employees across selected APAC countries, handle statutory filings, and support audits. Additionally, you will contribute to payroll system enhancements, automation projects, and regional process standardization. Strong knowledge of APAC payroll legislation, experience with global payroll platforms (e.g., iHROS, ADP, Workday), and a commitment to operational excellence are essential.

What will you be doing

• Manage end-to-end payroll for multiple APAC countries (e.g., Singapore, China, Japan), including monthly, off-cycle, and termination payrolls.
• Ensure that starters, leavers, leaves of absence, salary increases, bonuses, and transfers are processed accurately and on time, including preparation and submission of required employee data through flexi-forms and payroll provider portals.
• Validate payroll outputs, perform variance analysis, and resolve discrepancies before approval by the Global Payroll Manager.
• Adhere to strict payroll cut-off deadlines and obtain necessary approvals for manual payments.
• Ensure compliance with country-specific statutory regulations and company policies, and stay updated on legislative changes.
• Prepare and submit statutory filings (tax, social security, cpf, etc., and year-end reports).
• Maintain employee registrations/de-registrations and handle termination/ redundancy payments as per legislation.
• Reconcile payroll journals with the general ledger and assist Finance with month-end close.
• Post payroll-related accounting entries and assist Finance in reconciling payroll GL accounts.
• Prepare payroll reports for audits, budgeting, and forecasting.
• Partner with HR, Finance, and external vendors to ensure data integrity and process efficiency.
• Collaborate with payroll providers to optimize processes and implement legislative updates.
• Serve as the first point of contact for country-specific audits or inquiries in coordination with payroll providers.
• Address employee payroll queries professionally and promptly.

Skills and Experience

• Postgraduate qualification with a minimum of 5 years experience in end-to-end payroll processing across multiple APAC countries.
• Solid understanding of payroll regulations in APAC countries (e.g., Singapore, Malaysia, China, Japan).
• Excellent written & verbal communication skills with strong attention to detail and analytical skills.
• Proficient with Excel (Pivots, VLOOKUPs, etc.)
• Highly organized and adaptable with the ability to manage deadlines and work independently and collaboratively as part of the remote regional team.
• Strong customer service focus, with a proactive and flexible approach to problem-solving.
• Quick learner with a strong desire to develop expertise in new systems and technologies.
• Experience working in fast-paced, high-growth environments and across multiple time zones is preferred.
• Proficiency in English; knowledge of Mandarin or Japanese is a plus.
• Familiarity with Workday, ADP Streamline, iHROS, or other global payroll platforms is preferred.

Attributes

• Self-motivated, confident and results driven individual
• Highly organised to manage own workload and efficiently meet targets
• Courteous, friendly, and positive

Whats in it for you

Our rapidly growing, award-winning business offers a dynamic environment for talented, entrepreneurial professionals to achieve results and grow their careers. Argus recognizes and rewards successful performance and as an Investor in People, we promote professional development and retain a high-performing team committed to building our success.

• Competitive salary
• Hybrid Working Policy (3 days in Mumbai office/ 2 days WFH once fully inducted)
• Group healthcare scheme
• 18 days annual leave
• 8 days of casual leave
• Extensive internal and external training

Hours

This is a full-time position operating under a hybrid model, with three days in the office and two days working remotely. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 09:00 to 18:00, with a one-hour lunch break.