HR Operations, IT & Payroll Specialist - Japan

We’re seeking curious, growth minded thinkers to help shape our vision, structures and systems; playing a key-role as we launch into our ambitious future. If you’re invigorated by our mission, values, and drive to change the world — we’d love to have you apply.

We are looking for a detail-oriented and hands-on HR Operations, IT & Payroll Specialist to support our Japan operations. This role partners closely with centralized global HR teams to ensure smooth execution of employee lifecycle processes locally, while also owning payroll compliance, IT/workplace coordination, and employee experience initiatives in Japan.

In addition, this role will act as a key partner to the Japan Country Manager, supporting local execution, employee experience, and operational excellence on the ground.

You will serve as the local bridge between global teams, the Country Manager, and Japan employees, ensuring processes are executed accurately, compliantly, and with a strong focus on engagement and culture.

• Execute onboarding and offboarding locally in coordination with centralized HR teams
• Maintain employee records and support HR processes, audits, and employee queries
• Support the Japan Country Manager on local HR needs

• Manage monthly payroll with vendors; ensure compliance with Japanese laws and regulations
• Handle payroll inputs, filings, and year-end adjustments

• Coordinate IT setup (onboarding/offboarding, access, equipment) with global IT
• Maintain asset tracking and support local IT needs

• Organize IRL events and engagement initiatives
• Support onboarding experience and strengthen local culture
  
  

• 4–8 years of experience in HR Operations and Payroll in Japan
• Strong knowledge of Japanese labor laws, payroll, and statutory compliance
• Experience working with global/centralized HR models is highly preferred
• Exposure to IT/workplace support and/or employee engagement initiatives is a plus
• Comfortable working cross-functionally with HR, Finance, and IT teams

• Strong execution and attention to detail
• Ability to coordinate across global and local stakeholders
• Ownership mindset with a hands-on approach
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to balance operational rigor with employee experience and culture-building
• Fluent in Japanese and business-level English

This role is critical in ensuring that global HR processes are effectively localized for Japan, while also building a strong, connected, and engaged workplace culture through thoughtful execution and local presence.