Assistant Manager, HR Services (Payroll)

Job Overview

The Assistant Manager in HR Services is tasked with overseeing accurate, timely payroll processing across both internal and external payroll functions for multiple countries. This role emphasizes continuous enhancements via process simplification, automation, and integration of AI and digital tools to boost operational efficiency and service quality. The position functions as an individual contributor closely coordinating with payroll team members.

Key Duties

• Administer monthly payroll across all entities including in-house payroll for Singapore and Malaysia and outsourced payroll for regions like the UK, Ireland, US, Indonesia, and Thailand.
• Validate payroll elements such as salaries, overtime, commissions, bonuses, and applicable deductions.
• Manage and monitor outsourced payroll vendors to ensure adherence to service levels, compliance, and operational protocols.
• Collaborate with Finance teams to enhance payroll reconciliation and general ledger integration.
• Lead year-end payroll activities encompassing reconciliation, tax reporting, statutory filings, and distribution of employee tax documents.
• Continuously identify and implement improvements by automating repetitive payroll tasks and applying digital tools including AI to streamline payroll processes.
• Utilize AI to enhance payroll quality assurance by detecting anomalies and exceptions before payroll finalization.
• Work alongside HRIS and IT departments to deploy compliant, efficient automation and AI-driven payroll solutions for multi-national operations.
• Maintain and update payroll standard operating procedures, incorporating new automated and AI-assisted workflows.
• Ensure compliance with statutory and tax regulations across all jurisdictions, adjusting processes as regulatory requirements evolve.
• Coordinate payroll audits by preparing necessary documentation, assessing controls, and engaging with relevant stakeholders.
• Act as primary point of contact for payroll-related inquiries from HR, Finance, business units, and employees.
• Develop and sustain robust working relationships with payroll vendors and benefits providers.
• Communicate pay policies, statutory changes, and procedural updates proactively and clearly.
• Manage statutory survey submissions for Singapore entities within the Group.
• Support HR transactional duties such as onboarding, employee lifecycle changes, and exits as needed.

Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Accounting, Finance, or related fields is required.
• Minimum eight years’ payroll experience, including regional payroll management and vendor handling.
• In-depth understanding of Singapore and Malaysia payroll legislation.
• Proven experience with payroll and HRIS platforms (e.g., Prosoft, SAP SuccessFactors, Workday, Oracle).
• Demonstrated success in process enhancement, automation, and digital transformation within payroll operations.
• Proficient and comfortable using AI and digital tools for operational improvements.
• Strong analytical capabilities paired with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information with integrity and discretion.

Preferred Skills

• Experience implementing AI, robotic process automation, or workflow automation solutions within payroll or HR functions.
• Background managing outsourced regional payroll vendors.
• Knowledge of flexible benefits systems and leave management tools.
• Experience in payroll transformation or HR digitalization projects.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and data analysis techniques.