Specialist II Payroll

Job Description

The Payroll Specialist II is a senior payroll professional responsible for complex payroll operations, governance, and continuous improvement across multiple countries. This role acts as a technical expert, leads audits and controls, and supports strategic payroll initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced payroll validation and handle complex payroll scenarios.
• Review and validate new hire, absence, leave, and termination data to ensure accuracy and compliance before payroll processing.
• Ensure statutory termination documentation is prepared, validated, and delivered to the employee in accordance with legal and internal requirements.
• Serve as a technical reference for payroll processes and escalations.
• Lead payroll audits, reconciliations, and compliance reviews.
• Develop and maintain payroll controls, documentation, and SOPs.
• Monitor payroll KPIs and prepare analytical reports for leadership.
• Drive process improvements, automation, and standardization initiatives.
• Lead or support multi country payroll projects, system upgrades, and provider transitions.
• Collaborate closely with HR, Finance, Legal, and external vendors on strategic topics.
• Support change management and ensure smooth adoption of new processes.
• Provide guidance and knowledge support to Payroll Specialist I team members.

Qualifications

• Payroll experience with multi country complexity, with a strong knowledge of German payroll and legislation (experience with UK, BE and other EU countries will be a strong asset).
• Strong understanding of payroll legislation, compliance, and controls.
• Advanced analytical, problem solving, and auditing skills.
• Ability to manage priorities independently and lead initiatives.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management capabilities.
• High proficiency in payroll systems, HRIS, and Excel or analytical tools.
• Proficiency in English and German (any other EU languages are welcome)