In the fast-paced world of human capital management (HCM), few individuals have made as significant an impact as James Saxton, the Vice President of Product for the Asia Pacific and Japan (APJ) region at Dayforce. Based in Perth, Australia, Saxton has been a catalyst for the company’s growth and innovation since his appointment over two years ago.
A Journey of Passion and Accountability
Saxton’s journey at Dayforce started with a strategic acquisition, which not only expanded the company’s market presence but also brought in leaders equipped to guide it into new territories. “There was a need for a regional product head,” Saxton shared during a recent interview. Reflecting on his decision to step into the role, he stated, “I took a moment to think about it, and then jumped in with both feet.” His enthusiasm is infectious; “It’s a great job, to be fair. It’s very varied and it comes with a lot of responsibilities.”
His responsibilities are wide-ranging. Saxton collaborates closely with everyone—from the executive team to product engineers—ensuring that Dayforce’s offerings are both globally consistent and locally relevant. “We cover the whole Asia Pacific region, including all of the little islands in the Pacific,” he explained, emphasizing the breadth of his role.
Dayforce: Enhancing Workplace Experience
At the core of Saxton’s mission is Dayforce’s goal: to “make work life better.” As a leader in HCM systems and technologies, Dayforce provides a unified platform addressing HR needs, payroll, talent management, workforce management, and analytics within a single system. “We’re one of the only platforms on the planet that does it that way,” Saxton stated proudly.
Under his leadership, the APJ region has experienced significant progress, particularly in compliance. “We’re known as being the number one for compliance,” he mentioned. This focus is essential in a region as culturally and regulatory diverse as APJ, where rules can vary greatly from one country to another.
Responsible Integration of AI
A notable initiative under Saxton’s leadership is the responsible incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) into Dayforce’s platform. He pointed out that while AI is a hot topic today, a cautious approach is paramount. “We see AI not replacing but augmenting or helping employees—the smart people in the room that do the job of HR and payroll,” he explained.
This philosophy results in features designed to deliver data to employees seamlessly, automating mundane tasks and anticipating user needs. “Data should find you,” he remarked, highlighting innovations such as workforce insights and autonomous payroll that simplify complexity and enhance business efficiency across the region.
Customer-Centric Leadership
Saxton’s leadership is grounded in a deep commitment to customer engagement. He believes that understanding customer needs is essential for growth. “We’re constantly interviewing customers and talking to customers,” he explained.
A case in point is his collaboration with a New Zealand-based conglomerate facing challenges with staff scheduling. By working closely with them onsite, Saxton’s team implemented changes that “transformed what their business did that year.” These success stories fuel his passion. “When customers say they love Dayforce and then discuss issues, that’s what really makes you smile,” he noted. The connection between client feedback and product improvement is a core principle of his approach.
Impressive Growth and Future Aspirations
Since Saxton took the helm, the APJ region has become a crucial growth driver for Dayforce. “When I joined, we were a $1.2 billion organization. Today, we’re a $1.7 billion organization,” he reported, adding that the company aims to reach $2 billion by the end of the next year.
Regarding the future, Saxton maintains a balance of optimism and realism. “The world of work is changing. It’s more complex than ever before with the post-COVID era and the advent of AI,” he acknowledged but remains confident in Dayforce’s leadership capabilities. “We want to be at the forefront of innovations regarding what the future workforce looks like. That’s what we’re here for—we’re here to make that better.”
The Essence of Saxton’s Leadership
What distinguishes Saxton as a notable figure in technology is his fervent passion—for his work, his team, and their shared mission. “I love passionate people, and I’ve got a team full of them,” he shared, emphasizing the positive environment he cultivates. Even when challenges arise, his focus on innovation and improvement remains strong.
In an industry that requires adaptability and creativity, James Saxton embodies the qualities of a visionary leader. His dedication to improving workplace life is not just a company motto but a personal mission that resonates throughout the APJ region and beyond.
James Saxton stands as a testament to how dynamic leadership can leverage technology to create transformative changes in the workforce, driving both employee satisfaction and business success.
