We are supporting a strategic search for a Senior Manager, Compensation & Benefits to lead the reward strategy for a premier global insurance and asset management group. This is a high-visibility leadership appointment following a structural evolution within the HR function. The successful candidate will be tasked with modernizing legacy frameworks and harmonizing benefit structures for a workforce of approximately 4,500 employees across multiple business entities.

About the Role

Reporting directly to the CHRO, you will lead a dedicated team of four specialists. Your mission is to bridge the gap between "Business as Usual" (BAU) operational excellence—such as annual year-end reviews—and high-level strategic transformation. While executive compensation is handled by a separate division, you will hold full accountability for the design and implementation of the rewards framework for the broader organizational population.

The role offers a sophisticated "vibe" that balances analytical rigor with strategic influence. You will act as a trusted advisor to the executive committee, navigating a complex matrix environment that spans local Japanese operations and Global Headquarters. This is not merely an administrative position; it is a mandate to architect a contemporary, competitive reward system that aligns with international standards while respecting local market nuances.

Responsibilities

Strategic Modernization & Design

• Lead the comprehensive overhaul of legacy benefit programs, integrating disparate systems into a cohesive, modernized structure for the total 9,000-person organization.
• Drive the long-term rewards strategy, ensuring the firm remains an employer of choice through competitive benchmarking and innovative incentive design.
• Architect performance-aligned compensation frameworks for a large, incentive-driven employee population.

Operational Leadership & Compliance

• Direct the annual compensation review cycle, ensuring data integrity, budget alignment, and seamless execution across two major business entities.
• Manage and mentor a team of four C&B specialists, fostering a culture of agility, precision, and proactive problem-solving.
• Ensure all programs maintain strict adherence to Japanese labor laws and industry-specific regulations, applying deep Employee Relations (ER) knowledge to mitigate organizational risk.

Stakeholder Engagement & Matrix Management

• Partner with senior leadership and Global HQ to align local reward initiatives with global HR priorities.
• Influence decision-making in a multi-entity environment, translating complex technical data into actionable insights for the CHRO and business heads.

Requirements

• Experience: Approximately 10–15 years of HR experience, with a deep specialization in Compensation & Benefits within a large-scale corporate or financial services environment.
• Analytical Mastery: Exceptional ability to interpret complex data sets to inform strategy, budgeting, and financial modeling.
• Labor Expertise: A robust understanding of Japanese labor law and Employee Relations is highly preferred to navigate the local regulatory landscape.
• Leadership: Proven experience managing and developing a team, with the emotional intelligence to lead through periods of organizational change.
• Language: Native or fluent Japanese is essential; English at a professional business level is preferred for global reporting (exceptional technical candidates with developing English may be considered).
• Industry Background: Prior experience in insurance (Life or General), banking, or highly regulated professional services is a significant advantage.

Why Apply

• Direct Impact & Legacy: Opportunity to leave a lasting mark by transforming the benefit structures for 9,000 employees during a pivotal restructuring phase.
• C-Suite Exposure: Work in close proximity to the CHRO, gaining high-level visibility and a seat at the table for critical human capital decisions.
• Strategic Autonomy: Lead a newly defined section with the mandate to move beyond administration into true strategic design.
• Global Reach: Engage regularly with Global HQ, providing a platform to influence and learn from international best practices in rewards.
• Stability & Growth: Join one of the world's most recognizable financial brands, offering a sophisticated work environment and a culture of resilience.