APAC Payroll Specialist

APAC Payroll Specialist The APAC Payroll Specialist is responsible for managing and executing end-to-end payroll processes across multiple countries in the Asia-Pacific region (e.g., Singapore, China, Japan). We usually respond within a week Location: Mumbai Looking for hands on experience in end-to-end payroll - Singapore, China, Japan 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 What's 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. Department Finance Locations Mumbai Remote status Hybrid Employment level First /Mid-Level Officials About Argus Media Argus is the leading independent provider of market intelligence to the global energy and commodity markets. We offer essential price assessments, news, analytics, consulting services, data science tools and industry conferences to illuminate complex and opaque commodity markets. Headquartered in London with 1,500 staff, Argus is an independent media organisation with 32 offices in the world’s principal commodity trading hubs. Companies, trading firms and governments in 160 countries around the world trust Argus data to make decisions, analyse situations, manage risk, facilitate trading and for long-term planning. Argus prices are used as trusted benchmarks around the world for pricing transportation, commodities and energy. Founded in 1970, Argus remains a privately held UK-registered company owned by employee shareholders and global growth equity firm General Atlantic.