Senior Payroll Specialist & Process Expert (Finance)

TL;DR

Senior Payroll Specialist & Process Expert (Finance): Managing the delivery of payroll services and shaping processes across the EMEA region with an accent on innovation, continuous improvement, and strategic projects. Focus on process design, system integration, and leveraging AI and automation technologies to streamline workflows.

Location: Hybrid (based in Colchester, UK); requires in-person presence 3+ days a week

Company

An international business part of the FTSE 100 that connects specialists through events, digital services, and academic research.

What you will do

• Act as a Subject Matter Expert on payroll processes and systems for the EMEA region.
• Manage monthly payroll checks, analysis reports, and approval documentation for senior management.
• Process salary and third-party payments while reconciling payroll journals in the finance system.
• Lead the design and implementation of scalable payroll processes using AI and automation.
• Collaborate on new payroll system implementations, scoping, and mapping before BAU transition.
• Ensure strict compliance with statutory regulations, HMRC requirements, and GDPR.

Requirements

• Extensive experience in multi-country payroll operations within EMEA.
• Strong knowledge of HMRC regulations and GDPR compliance.
• Proven ability to provide expert guidance as a payroll subject matter expert to stakeholders.
• Advanced Excel skills, specifically XLOOKUP and complex data analysis.
• Experience in process improvement and leveraging automation technologies.

Nice to have

• Professional payroll qualifications such as CIPP or equivalent.
• Experience in a shared services environment and payroll system administration.
• Background in project management or supporting strategic initiatives.

Culture & Benefits

• Hybrid work flexibility with the option to work from almost anywhere for up to four weeks a year.
• 25-27 days of annual leave plus an additional birthday leave day.
• Company-funded private medical cover and a ShareMatch shareholder scheme.
• Professional growth via mentoring and on-demand access to LinkedIn Learning.
• Supportive environment with mental health first aiders, healthy living subsidies, and volunteer days.