Associate Director, APAC Payroll Specialist

At Barings, we are as invested in our associates as we are in our clients. We recognize those who work diligently for us and reward them for personal and professional integrity, communication skills, distinct competencies and expertise in specific strategies, ability to collaborate as a team member and true dedication to the interests of our clients. We thank you for your interest in joining the Barings team, and invite you to explore our current employment opportunities. Title: Associate Director, APAC Payroll Specialist Business Unit: Human Resources Location: Sydney, Australia or Hong Kong Barings is a leading global financial services firm dedicated to meeting the evolving investment and capital needs of our clients and customers. Through active asset management and direct origination, we provide innovative solutions and access to differentiated opportunities across public and private capital markets. A subsidiary of MassMutual, Barings maintains a strong global presence with business and investment professionals located across North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific. Job Summary The APAC Payroll Specialist plays a pivotal role in overseeing comprehensive payroll operations across all Asia-Pacific countries. By collaborating closely with teams in HR, Finance, and HR Technology, they ensure payroll processes are carried out accurately, promptly, and in strict compliance with regulatory standards, all within a dynamic and rapidly expanding financial services environment. Utilizing Workday as the primary system of record alongside Deel as a key payroll vendor, the specialist must possess deep expertise in gross-to-net calculations, statutory compliance, and the complexities of cross-border payroll management. Additionally, this position provides critical support for Benefits and Compensation initiatives throughout the region, further enhancing operational efficiency and employee experience. Primary Responsibilities Manage end‑to‑end payroll processing for all APAC countries using Workday and Deel, ensuring accurate gross‑to‑net calculations and timely payments Serve as subject matter expert, including statutory compliance (e.g., superannuation/Payday Super, MPF, statutory leave, tax and reporting requirements) Coordinate with payroll vendors to ensure service levels, data accuracy, issue resolution, and compliance with local regulations Administer payroll‑related benefits and deductions and support country‑specific benefits processes across APAC Support compensation activities including salary changes, bonuses, incentives, and one‑time payments, ensuring accurate payroll execution Maintain and reconcile payroll reports, audits, year‑end activities, and statutory filings Partner with Finance on payroll accounting, reconciliations, accruals, and month‑end close Monitor regulatory changes across APAC and implement required process or system updates Document payroll processes, controls, and procedures and support internal and external audits Respond to employee inquiries with a high level of service and clear communication Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in business, Accounting, Human Resources, Finance, or related field preferred Significant experience in multi‑country payroll operations Proven knowledge of APAC payroll compliance, statutory reporting, and vendor‑managed payroll models Experience using Workday and global payroll providers such as Deel Strong understanding of payroll controls, audits, and payroll‑to‑GL integration Excellent attention to detail, problem‑solving skills, and ability to manage multiple priorities independently Strong communication skills and ability to work effectively across regions and cultures Experience in financial services or a highly regulated environment preferred #LI-JS1 Requisite Skills Additional Skills Barings is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer; Minority/Female/Age/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Individual with Disability/Protected Veteran. We welcome all persons to apply. Barings is a leading global asset management firm dedicated to meeting the evolving investment and capital needs of our clients. We build lasting partnerships that leverage our distinctive expertise across traditional and alternative asset classes to deliver innovative, institutional-quality solutions and service. Our team-driven culture is based on transparency, responsibility and putting our clients’ interests first. We listen to our clients to understand their needs, so that we can be a strategic advisor and long-term partner in meeting their unique investment goals. Risk management and protecting our investors’ capital over the long term is an essential component of our lasting partnerships. Barings is also committed to building long-term relationships with our associates and providing opportunities and support to help them succeed. With our expanding business and global footprint, Barings offers a wealth of opportunities for associates who share our culture, values and commitment to excellence in client service. As an organization, we believe that a diversity of perspectives and strengths is essential to meeting the evolving needs of our clients, and we are committed to attracting and retaining a talented workforce as diverse as the clients and communities that contribute to our success.