HR Specialist - Japan

GoGlobal is seeking a proactive and experienced HR Specialist to support our client employees in Japan. This position combines HR support as a Local Representative and payroll responsibilities. While the role covers both areas, you will be assigned to focus on HR as your primary function – while supporting the payroll as a secondary duty, based on business needs. Responsibilities and focus areas may be adjusted according to the assignment, but close collaboration with other team members is key to ensuring a smooth employee experience and full compliance with Japanese employment and payroll requirements

Roles & Responsibilities

HR Local Representative   

• Be the primary HR contact and company representative for Japan  

• Facilitate smooth onboarding for local employees; welcome and guide new hires through all local processes  

• Manage core HR operations, for example time and attendance, probation tracking, contract changes and offboarding processes  

• Address employee and client HR-related issues, escalating and resolving as needed  

• Support employee termination / separation process under the direction of the Reporting Manager  

• Stay updated on Japanese employment laws and HR trends; communicate relevant updates internally  

• Prepare HR documents (e.g., employment agreements, addendums, letters) and maintain accurate personnel records  

• Provide administrative/advisory support on the ground, including but not limited to office management, social insurance enrolment, bank account setup, and office equipment sourcing and purchasing  

• Collect and organize client documents and mail, maintain document storage, ensure the office remains tidy, liaise with vendors, and manage the company’s safe box as part of office administration  

• Support the work visa process thoroughly and in a timely manner  

• Participate and take ownership in ad hoc projects as assigned 
• Support basic payroll activities in Japan, including data input and coordination with vendors or internal teams to ensure accurate processing
• Maintain general understanding of Japan payroll and social insurance (e.g., health insurance, pension, taxes) to handle employee queries and flag issues for escalation