HR System Optimisation and Global Alignment

Problem

When conducting a business review of an ANZ sustainability company, that was part of a global group, serious gaps in its HR and payroll platforms were identified. Key functionalities – such as accurate award interpretation and compliance reporting – were underdeveloped or incorrectly configured, creating unnecessary administrative burden and risk. These shortcomings were further compounded by the sale of the business, which triggered a need to explore migrating disparate HR systems onto a single global platform. The goal was to ensure full local compliance while delivering consistent global HR data and functionality, with minimal operational disruption.

Solutions

A two-pronged approach to tackle the complex HR systems environment was used:

1. Troubleshooting and Configuration Enhancements

Conducted a systematic audit of the existing HR and payroll functionalities, uncovering errors in data capture, pay rule settings, and reporting requirements.
Partnered with key stakeholders – local HR teams, finance, and software vendor, Kronos – to redesign system configurations, ensuring alignment with Australian employment legislation and the parent company’s broader corporate standards.
Oversaw a rapid rollout of software updates and system patches, delivering better validation rules and streamlined workflows.

2. Platform Migration Assessment

Led a cross-functional review to determine the feasibility and scope of migrating disparate HR platforms (including payroll, onboarding, and performance modules) onto a new single global system.
Coordinated the development of a project roadmap, articulating technical specifications, data migration strategies, and change management considerations, all while maintaining day-to-day timekeeping, general HR and fortnightly payroll functionality.
Established governance structures to ensure consistent adoption of group-wide HR standards, policies, and reporting requirements.

Outcomes

Enhanced Compliance: The remedial configuration changes to the HR and payroll systems significantly reduced key compliance risks, leading to more accurate pay runs and reduced administrative overhead.
Streamlined Processes: Clarifying data flows and updating system workflows, resulted in faster turnaround times for payroll, onboarding, and employee enquiries, improving overall employee satisfaction.
Global Readiness: With a clear roadmap for platform consolidation, the ANZ team effectively aligned its local HR operations with the new parent global standards – setting the stage for a unified, group-wide HR solution once the systems merger proceeded.
Sustainable Capability: Consistent stakeholder engagement and change management activities, elevated HR and system-support teams’ capability to sustain ongoing improvements

At Stoke Consulting, we thrive on turning ambitions into outcomes. Contact Stoke Consulting today and discover how we can support your business in achieving your goals.