Are you a master of craft? Do you thrive in a team that succeeds together, demonstrating integrity and respect while acting responsibly? Do you embrace a growth mindset? We invite you to become a fan of the exceptional. 

Mandarin Oriental is the award-winning owner and operator of some of the most luxurious hotels, resorts and residences located in prime destinations around the world, with a strong development pipeline. Increasingly recognized for creating some of the world’s most sought-after properties, the Group provides legendary service inspired by Asian heritage whilst representing the very cutting-edge of luxury experiences.

Mandarin Oriental, Makati is an upcoming 5-star luxury hotel set within the lush Ayala Triangle Gardens, at the prestigious corner of Paseo de Roxas and Makati Avenue. Scheduled to open in 2026, this landmark development will feature 276 elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites, offering a refined blend of contemporary design and timeless sophistication. Guests will enjoy an exceptional array of world-class amenities, including a curated selection of restaurants, a stylish bar, a serene pool area, and the brand’s signature spa. Designed to be a sanctuary in the heart of the city, the hotel promises an elevated experience for both leisure and business travelers seeking comfort, excellence, and distinction in Manila.

The Role

The Paymaster is responsible for the end‑to‑end payroll administration of all pre‑opening and post‑opening colleagues of Mandarin Oriental Makati. This includes accurate payroll preparation, verification of time and attendance records, proper handling of pre‑opening contracts, and ensuring compliance with all local statutory requirements. The role supports the People & Culture team in managing colleague movements and contributes to the hotel’s financial accuracy and operational readiness during the pre‑opening phase.

Confidentiality, precision, and alignment with Mandarin Oriental’s Legendary Quality Standards (LQS) are essential.

Key Responsibilities

1. Pre‑Opening Responsibilities

• Sets up payroll systems, processes, and standards in coordination with People & Culture and the Director of Finance.
• Ensures all pre‑opening hires are accurately registered and properly documented in the payroll system.
• Assists in the configuration and testing of the Time & Attendance system.
• Establishes payroll cut-off calendars, approval workflows, and statutory compliance schedules.
• Ensures compliance with brand standards, corporate guidelines, and internal controls during hotel pre‑opening preparations.

2. Payroll Processing

• Processes timely and accurate payroll for all colleagues, including pre‑opening project staff, casuals, and new hires.
• Verifies time sheets, rosters, overtime, night differential, paid/unpaid leave, and adjustments in coordination with department heads.
• Maintains updated employee compensation, benefits, and deduction entries.
• Ensures accuracy of final pay computations, separation benefits, and tax adjustments.

3. Records Management

• Maintains secure and confidential employee payroll files and records.
• Ensures payroll master files are correct, complete, and aligned with People & Culture data.
• Manages accurate record‑keeping for special pre‑opening contracts, project hires, and consultants.
• Prepares certificates, employment documents, and payroll support papers as needed.

4. Compliance & Reporting

• Ensures compliance with all Philippine statutory requirements (SSS, PhilHealth, Pag-IBIG, BIR).
• Prepares statutory remittances and ensures they are submitted on time.
• Coordinates with internal and external auditors for payroll-related documentation.
• Generates payroll reports, costing, variance analysis, and month-end summaries for Finance and Management.

5. Coordination & Support

• Collaborates closely with People & Culture, particularly regarding onboarding, compensation changes, benefits, attendance, and colleague movements.
• Answers colleague concerns regarding payroll, benefits, and deductions in a service‑oriented and discreet manner.
• Supports the Finance team during month-end closing activities, accrual preparations, and audit reviews.
• Ensures that all payroll queries are resolved in line with Mandarin Oriental’s standards of service excellence.

Qualification & Experience Profile

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related fields.

Experience

• Minimum 2–3 years’ experience in payroll administration.
• Experience in hospitality or luxury hotel operations is highly preferred.
• Pre‑opening hotel experience is an advantage.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in payroll systems and Time & Attendance software.
• Strong Excel skills (pivot tables, formulas, reconciliation).
• Strong knowledge of Philippine payroll regulations and statutory requirements.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.

Competencies

• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Customer‑focused and discreet when handling employee concerns.
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
• Problem-solving and analytical mindset.
• Demonstrates reliability, professionalism, and alignment with Mandarin Oriental’s Values, Vision, and Mission.

Key Attributes

• Integrity & Confidentiality – Upholds trust when handling sensitive payroll information.
• Calm and Composed – Manages high-volume pre‑opening workloads with poise.
• Collaborative – Works effectively with People & Culture and Finance teams.
• Passion for Excellence – Ensures precision and consistent quality.
• Service-Oriented – Supports colleagues with care, respect, and Mandarin Oriental courtesy.

Why Join Us?

Mandarin Oriental offers a world‑class environment where your expertise, creativity, and leadership will shape the legacy of our return to Manila. You will be part of a dynamic pre‑opening team committed to excellence, innovation, and authentic Asian hospitality.

Our commitment to you:

• Learning & Development. Your success is our success. We craft unique learning and development programmes for various stages in your career so that you grow, continuously.
• MOstay. When you work as hard as our colleagues do, it’s important to take time off. As a member of the #MOfamily, you can stay with us wherever you go in the world. The MOstay programme offers complimentary nights and additionally attractive rates on rooms for you and your loved ones.
• Heath & Colleague Wellness. Finding the right work-life balance is important. Your wellbeing matters to us. A variety of health benefits and wellness programmes are offered to all our colleagues, globally.

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