Senior Global Payroll Specialist, APAC

The RoleModerna is seeking an Individual, to join the Global Payroll team. In this role, you will be responsible for end-to-end payroll processing in partnership a third-party payroll vendor for employees across multiple APAC countries. Key responsibilities include coordinating payroll cycle, managing data collection (inputs), delivering accurate and timely payroll results and reporting (outputs), ensuring compliance with local regulations and SOX controls, and serving as the primary contact for payroll matters. The role is also responsible for year-end payroll activities and deliverables.Reporting to the Director, Global Payroll, you will work closely with cross-functional teams and external vendors to deliver seamless payroll operations. The ideal candidate thrives in complexity, demonstrates strong attention to detail, resolves escalations effectively, and identifies opportunities to streamline and improve processes.Here’s What You’ll DoProcess end-to-end payroll operations with third-party vendors across Asia-Pacific, from data collection (e.g., salary changes, one-time payments, absences, overtime, benefits adjustments) to delivery of accurate, timely payroll results and reporting (e.g., employee pay, pay slips, tax filings, benefit contributions, reports, and compliance submissions)Manage change requests with internal teams and with vendors to ensure compliance with policies and submit adjustment input files to vendor portals (e.g., new hires, terminations, leaves, one-time payments, etc.)Support accurate, compliance payroll processes that meet SOX controls and audit requirementsReview and analyze current payroll procedures to identify areas for improvement and implement enhanced processes, systems, and controls to increase efficiency and accuracyPartner with Global Compensation, Benefits, Mobility, and Equity teams on payroll-impacting events, and collaborate with Finance, Tax, and Legal teams on audit and documentation requestsMonitor the payroll inbox for ad-hoc requests and ServiceNow tickets, supporting employees with payroll inquiries and timesheets while ensuring SLAs and employee satisfaction are metDrive vendor relationships, risks, escalations, focusing on performance metrics to deliver improvements through KPIs and action plansManage the payroll calendar, ensure deadlines are met, and send reminder communications to stakeholdersEnsure the accuracy, integrity, and confidentiality of all payroll data and transactionsHere’s What You’ll Need (Basic Qualifications)BA/BS degree or equivalent work experience3–5+ years of experience in payroll solutions and vendor managementStrong knowledge of local payroll legislation/taxation (Australia required; additional APAC & EMEA countries preferred)Proficiency with Workday, Microsoft Office, and advanced Excel (VLOOKUPs, Pivot Tables, linking formulasProven accuracy, data integrity, and attention to detailClear and confident communication skills in written and spoken EnglishHands-on experience with payroll files, benefit provider inputs, and outsourced vendor modelAbility to work effectively across time zones and adapt to country-specific payroll requirementsHere’s What You’ll Bring to the Table (Preferred Qualifications):Strong organizational and problem-solving skills with a process-oriented mindsetAdapt to evolving business needs while collaborating effectively across teams.Excellent communication skills and the ability to build collaborative relationships, influence stakeholders, and align shared objectivesExperience managing payroll in different delivery models (in-house, outsourced, and co-sourced)Experienced with Workday; knowledge of IPPEX Additional payroll experience across APAC and EMEA regionsthriving in a matrixed, fast-paced, deadline-driven environmentA collaborative professional with a desire to make an impact in a high-growth, transformational company that values being Bold, Relentless, Curious, and CollaborativePay & BenefitsAt Moderna, we believe that when you feel your best, you can do your best work.  That’s why our global benefits and well-being resources are designed to support you—at work, at home, and everywhere in between.Best-in-class healthcare, plus voluntary benefit programs to support your unique needsA holistic approach to well-being with access to fitness, mindfulness, and mental health supportFamily building benefits, including fertility, adoption, and surrogacy supportGenerous paid time off, including vacation, bank holidays, volunteer days, sabbatical, global recharge days, and a discretionary year-end shutdownSavings and investments to help you plan for the futureLocation-specific perks and extrasThe benefits offered may vary depending on the nature of your employment with Moderna and the country where you work.About ModernaSince our founding in 2010, we have aspired to build the leading mRNA technology platform, the infrastructure to reimagine how medicines are created and delivered, and a world-class team. We believe in giving our people a platform to change medicine and an opportunity to change the world.  By living our mission, values, and mindsets every day, our people are the driving force behind our scientific progress and our culture. Together, we are creating a culture of belonging and building an organization that cares deeply for our patients, our employees, the environment, and our communities. We are proud to have been recognized as a Science Magazine Top Biopharma Employer, a Fast Company Best Workplace for Innovators, and a Great Place to Work in the U.S. As we build our company, we have always believed an in-person culture is critical to our success. Moderna champions the significant benefits of in-office collaboration by embracing a 70/30 work model. This 70% in-office structure helps to foster a culture rich in innovation, teamwork, and direct mentorship. Join us in shaping a world where every interaction is an opportunity to learn, contribute, and make a meaningful impact. If you w