SEA Tax Director

Applied Materials is the global leader in materials science and engineering solutions that are at the foundation of virtually every new semiconductor chip and advanced display in the world. The equipment that we create and service is essential to advancing AI and accelerating the commercialization of next-generation semiconductor chips. Join us and push the boundaries of materials science and engineering in a company at the foundation of the electronics industry. The work we do together advances the world’s technology.

Location: Singapore,SGP You’ll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible—while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more.  At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We’re committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits .

Overview The Director, SEA Tax is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing all tax matters across Southeast Asia, while aligning with the global tax strategy. This role requires a leader who is equally comfortable operating at a strategic level and diving deep into detailed data, processes, and technical issues.  The successful candidate must be able to understand complex, end‑to‑end tax workflows, identify risks and inefficiencies, and drive sustainable improvements - while also connecting tax outcomes to business strategy, risk management, and operational efficiency. A critical component of this role is direct people leadership responsibility.  Developing a strong, high‑performing team with clear accountability, technical excellence, and continuous improvement mindset is a core expectation of this role.

Regional Tax Leadership & Strategy Act as the tax leader for SEA, providing oversight across direct tax, indirect tax, withholding tax, transfer pricing, and cross‑border matters. Translate global tax strategy into strong regional execution that supports business growth while managing tax risk. Proactively assess emerging tax risks, regulatory developments, and planning opportunities, and advise stakeholders on potential impacts and actions. Tax Compliance, Reporting & Governance Oversee end‑to‑end tax compliance across SEA, including CIT, GST/VAT, withholding tax, transfer pricing, and incentive‑related reporting. This will involve conducting rigorous detailed reviews of tax workpapers and supporting analyses, including hands-on walkthroughs of complex Excel calculations, reconciliations and data files; validate formulas and data integrity, and provide clear review feedback to ensure technical accuracy and high-quality deliverables. Ensure timely, accurate quarterly and annual tax accounting deliverables, including tax provision, tax packages, reconciliations, and supporting documentation. Own SOX tax controls, including design, execution, documentation, and audit readiness. Maintain strong governance over tax data quality, assumptions, documentation, and controls. Audit, Controversy & Risk Management Lead all tax audits, assessments, rulings, and appeals across SEA in collaboration with external advisors. Develop and execute robust audit defense strategies supported by sound technical analysis and documentation. Transfer Pricing & Cross‑Border Matters Partner with the Global Transfer Pricing team on TP policy, intercompany agreements, documentation and audit support. Evaluate tax implications of business model changes, supply‑chain restructuring, and new or evolving intercompany arrangements. 5. Incentives Governance Oversee tax incentive strategy and governance, including