Payroll Specialist

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for delivering 100% accurate, timely, and compliant payroll across Malaysia and overseas entities. You will manage end-to-end payroll processing, statutory submissions, vendor coordination, and internal controls to ensure employees are paid correctly and on time - every cycle, without fail.

This role requires precision, strong analytical skills, confidentiality, and the ability to manage both in-house and vendor-supported payroll across multiple countries.

• Prepare and process monthly payroll for Malaysia and other assigned countries.

• Validate all payroll inputs: new joiners, resignations, allowances, shifts, claims, incentives, deductions, attendance, OT, and more.

• Work closely with HR Ops, HRBP, and Finance to ensure all data is accurate, complete, and approved.

• Manage statutory contributions and submissions (EPF, SOCSO, EIS, LHDN, income tax) once payroll transitions fully in-house.

• Ensure all payroll processes comply with labour laws and regulatory requirements across all countries.

• Stay updated on statutory changes and apply updates immediately.

• Conduct monthly payroll reconciliations and error checks before payout.

• Manage internal and external payroll audits with high accuracy and readiness.

• Maintain strong payroll controls, documentation, and audit trails.

• Process salary changes, promotions, bonuses, allowances, incentives, and ad-hoc payments.

• Ensure accurate and timely calculations for all compensation-related items.

• Maintain full confidentiality and data security at all times.

• Manage payroll vendors, regional payroll partners, and EOR service providers.

• Validate vendor outputs, ensure accuracy, and resolve discrepancies.

• Ensure vendors follow timelines, SLAs, and compliance standards.

• Identify gaps, recurring issues, or inefficiencies in payroll processing.

• Recommend and execute improvements to streamline workflows and reduce errors.

• Improve payroll SOPs, documentation, checklists, and process controls.

• Work closely with People Ops & Culture Lead to enhance payroll automation and HRIS integration.

• Prepare payroll reports for Finance, HR, and management.

• Maintain accurate payroll records, dashboards, and documentation for all countries.

• Support budgeting, forecasting, and compensation analysis where required.

• 3+ years of payroll experience, preferably multi-country or regional.

• Strong understanding of Malaysian payroll legislation and statutory requirements.

• Experience with payroll systems and HRIS tools.

• High attention to detail, accuracy, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to manage confidential information with full professionalism.

• Strong stakeholder management - able to coordinate with HR, Finance, vendors, and leaders.

• Proactive mindset with a drive to improve processes continuously.

• High ownership over payroll across Malaysia and regional markets.

• Opportunity to build and refine payroll processes as the company scales.

• Work in a fast-paced environment that values speed, accuracy, and excellence.

• Clear career growth into Senior Payroll Specialist or Compensation & Benefits roles.

• Be part of a People team committed to strong execution, compliance, and employee trust.