60 seconds with a rising star – Wen Jie Tan, Regional Reward Specialist at TP ICAP

In our most recent edition of “60 seconds with a rising star” we interview Wen Jie Tan, Regional Reward Specialist at TP ICAP.

Wen Jie is a part of the Rewards and Benefits team looking after the APAC region for the TP ICAP Group, a world-leading provider of market infrastructure and data-led solutions. In his role, he supports the Head of Rewards and Benefits with compensation review cycles, compensation equity queries and participates in benchmarking for the region. He also works with stakeholders to review benefits plans and insurance renewals and coordinates employee engagement programmes.

In this article, Wen Jie shares with us the origins of his career journey and his transition from management consulting to an in-house corporate role.

What motivated you to pursue a career in Reward?

I was doing executive compensation previously in a bank. Compensation is a very niche area, whereas executive compensation is even more specialized. Hence, I am motivated to learn more, grow and be exposed to total rewards. Being in total rewards will get me exposure to benefits and is a good opportunity to be involved in other areas of compensation which I think is very important for my career growth.

Your career path has been quite intriguing. Could you share insights about your transition from management consulting into an in-house or corporate role and your insights about moving from the banking sector to broking?

I started my career as a tax consultant with one of the Big 4 specializing in Singapore individual employment tax, I then moved on to an in-house role doing executive compensation with a leading financial services company, and now I am with TP ICAP, in the rewards and benefits team. While I was a tax consultant, because we had to manage different clients/engagements from various industries, I was exposed to different compensation types and assisted in advisory work. In contrast, while working in a bank as a specialist, work is very structured and the focus is on executive compensation. Now that I am in total rewards, I am still learning the ropes of benefits management and have more holistic learning surrounding total compensation. Nevertheless, technical skills and soft skills from previous organizations are still put into good use in my current role.

Having previously worked in the Executive Compensation field, how do you compare it with your current role in Total Rewards?

Whilst I was in executive compensation, my focus was on deferred compensation such as managing share-based award plans and the administration related to award settlement. TP ICAP has given me the opportunity to work in total rewards, I get to be involved in comp reviews, benchmarking and benefits management such as insurance renewals and coordinating well-being programmes. It’s a really great role, working with a great team, and I’m learning every day.

What guidance would you offer to young, aspiring Reward professionals seeking to follow a path similar to yours?

Always keep an open mind and take up rising opportunities. Try to learn and be exposed to different areas while you are young, as it will be a great help for your future career.

From your perspective, what role do you see Rewards playing in the future of HR?

In the future, I believe Rewards are expected to be more personalized, not just incorporating a focus on monetary compensation. Non-monetary rewards and perks would need to be considered in depth to attract and retain top talent in a competitive job market.

Outside of work, what are your hobbies and interests? How do your friends perceive you?

Outside of work, I am passionate about badminton and enjoy playing the sport. I look forward to playing badminton every Sunday. It helps me decompress from a busy working week and refreshes me for the week ahead. I would like to believe that I am an easygoing person and friends can always approach me for help.

Please note that all commentary and opinions provided are those of the individual, and not the organisation/company.

As part of our commitment to keeping our HR community up-to-date with the latest HR insights and trends, Frazer Jones publishes a quarterly newsletter purely for HR professionals. In each issue, we include an interview with a leading HR professional, a high-potential “rising star” and/or a CHRO for our “view from the top” programme. If you would like to receive future newsletters, participate in our talent programmes, or nominate one of your network or team, please contact our Frazer Jones HR practice in Singapore.