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The Rewards Manager, APAC at Campari Group shares why total rewards is far more than cash — and how clear, practical frameworks can make rewards more accessible and impactful for employees.
Jacintha Loke (pictured above), Rewards Manager, APAC, Campari Group, describes her journey into HR as an unexpected one — or, as her former boss might put it, a case of “accidental HR”.
While she did not set out to build a career in the function, Loke says she remains grateful for the opportunity she was given in her first role after graduating at MINDEF. Over time, she came to realise that her analytical side — what she calls the “blue” in her, driven by insights and data — naturally aligned with the world of compensation & benefits.
Loke's experience stretches across total rewards strategy, performance management, incentive design, and long-term equity programmes. She works closely with senior leaders to develop practical reward frameworks that support performance while maintaining governance and compliance across multiple markets.
Known for her thoughtful and pragmatic approach, Loke has a knack for making complex rewards and tax topics easier to understand, and applying them meaningfully in business contexts.
Today, as part of Campari Group, Loke continues to find purpose and passion in the total rewards space where data, insights, and people strategy intersect.
In this edition of Faces of HR and ahead of her session at Total Rewards Asia Summit 2026, Singapore, Loke speaks to Emily Chong-Gupta about her accidental start in HR, why total rewards continues to energise her, and how insights-driven thinking shapes her approach to people and rewards. Check out the interview snippets below:
Q What first drew you to HR and Total Rewards (TR), and what keeps you passionate today?
'Accidental HR’ is probably how my former boss would describe my journey. I didn’t set out to build a career in HR, but I’m grateful for the opportunity I was given in my first role after graduating at MINDEF. Over time, I’ve realised that the ‘blue’ in me — driven by insights and data — naturally aligns with compensation & benefits, which continues to fuel my passion in this space.
Q What core belief guides your approach to designing TR strategies?
Simplification. Having clear, simple rules and frameworks helps demystify total rewards for employees and makes it more accessible, transparent, and meaningful.
Q What is one misconception about TR you’d like to challenge?
"That TR is only about cash. It’s not just about salary or bonuses — benefits play a critical role, and this is often undervalued or overlooked."
Q A fun fact about yourself?
I’m 100% a Koi (bubble tea) fan — coffee is not for me.
Q What do you hope attendees take away from your session?
More sharing! The more we exchange perspectives and experiences, the more we can showcase that total rewards is one of the most dynamic and exciting areas within HR.
I want to attend the conference: If you're keen to attend this closed-door conference, kindly register your interest here. For speaking opportunities, please write in to Emily Chong-Gupta. We look forward to welcoming you!
I want to sponsor: Engage in meaningful dialogue through dedicated speaking slots, roundtable discussions, and at your booths! If your organisation provides any talent solutions and products that you'd like to showcase, you’ll fit right into this event. To learn how you can sponsor, please reach out to a member of our team now!
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