About the Role
We are seeking an EMEA Payroll Specialist to manage end-to-end payroll activities for a portfolio of European countries, with a strong focus on France and Belgium. This role is responsible for ensuring the timely and accurate delivery of monthly payrolls while maintaining high standards of compliance and control.
You will oversee business-as-usual payroll operations, including resolving payroll queries, validating employee pay changes, performing monthly controls, and supporting HR Operations teams to meet agreed service levels. In addition to monthly activities, you will conduct quarterly processes such as internal audits, reconciliations, and governance reviews.
Acting as a key point of contact for internal stakeholders and third-party payroll providers, you will support system updates, maintain payroll documentation, and ensure all time-management, screening, and sign-off processes are completed accurately and on schedule.
This role also supports continuous improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities to optimise payroll processes, strengthen compliance, and enhance overall payroll operations across Europe. You will proactively manage risk events, including overpayment recovery processes, and ensure all payroll controls are executed effectively.
The role requires strong attention to detail, the ability to work in a fast-paced team environment, and confidence navigating the complexities of European payroll. French language skills are beneficial but not essential.
Key Responsibilities
* Manage end-to-end payroll processing for multiple European countries.
* Process payroll for hourly, salaried, and commissioned employees.
* Calculate pay, tax, statutory deductions, and other contributions accurately.
* Maintain and administer employee payroll records.
* Respond to and resolve payroll-related queries from employees and stakeholders.
* Complete monthly controls, reconciliations, and payroll sign-offs.
* Conduct quarterly audits and governance reviews.
* Manage statutory payroll reporting and filings, liaising with local tax authorities and government institutions as required.
* Support HR and Finance teams in meeting service level agreements.
* Identify and implement process improvements to enhance payroll accuracy and efficiency.
* Manage risk events and ensure compliance with internal policies and regulatory requirements.
Required Experience and Skills
* Proven experience delivering payroll, with strong knowledge of European payroll processes.
* Ability to manage complex payroll issues and work effectively under pressure to meet strict deadlines.
* Strong prioritisation, organisation, and self-management skills.
* Clear and confident communication skills with stakeholders at all levels.
* High level of accuracy and attention to detail, particularly during high-volume periods.
* Experience using ADP payroll systems.
Highly Desirable Skills
* Experience using Workday.
* French language skills (written and verbal).
* Understanding of finance processes linked to payroll, including reconciliations and audits.
Role Expectations
* Deliver high-quality work consistently and within agreed timeframes.
* Demonstrate strong technical expertise in payroll processes and controls.
* Take ownership of risk management and ensure compliance with relevant regulations and internal procedures.
* Support change initiatives, including system and process improvements.
* Collaborate effectively with HR, Finance, and external providers.
* Escalate policy or control breaches appropriately.
* Contribute to strengthening payroll controls and governance standards.
* Act as a trusted point of contact for stakeholders and build effective working relationships across functions.