Interim Payroll Manager

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Interim Payroll Manager to take ownership of a complex global payroll function within a fast-growing international business.

This role will be responsible for leading payroll operations across multiple jurisdictions while supporting ongoing payroll transformation initiatives, systems integration projects, and process improvements. Working closely with Finance, HR, and external payroll partners, you will ensure employees across the globe are paid accurately, compliantly and on time.

This is an excellent opportunity for a hands-on payroll professional who thrives in a dynamic, high-growth environment and enjoys driving operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Global Payroll Management
• Lead end-to-end payroll operations across multiple international locations, ensuring accuracy, compliance and timely delivery.
• Manage payroll providers and key external stakeholders across various regions.
• Maintain payroll data integrity, confidentiality and robust control processes.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for payroll-related queries and escalations.
• Ensure all payroll-related benefits and statutory submissions are completed accurately and on schedule.
• Maintain payroll records, documentation and audit trails.

Process Improvement & Transformation

• Partner with Finance and People teams to improve payroll processes and increase automation.
• Support payroll transformation initiatives, systems enhancements and process optimisation projects.
• Assist with the integration of new entities and acquisitions into existing payroll structures.
• Drive standardisation and harmonisation of payroll processes across multiple countries.
• Strengthen payroll controls and support internal and external audit requirements.

Reporting & Analysis

• Produce payroll reporting, analytics and insights for senior stakeholders.
• Analyse payroll costs, trends and workforce data to support business decision-making.
• Ensure compliance with local and international payroll legislation, tax requirements and regulatory changes.

Essential Experience

• Proven experience managing multi-country payroll operations across several jurisdictions.
• Strong understanding of payroll compliance, taxation and statutory requirements.
• Experience managing relationships with outsourced payroll providers and external stakeholders.
• Excellent analytical, reporting and problem-solving capabilities.
• Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to interact confidently with senior leadership teams.
• Demonstrable experience improving payroll processes, controls and efficiencies.

Desirable Experience

• Experience supporting business acquisitions, integrations or payroll transformation projects.
• Knowledge of international benefits administration.
• Exposure to payroll operations across both Europe and North America.
• Professional payroll qualification such as CIPP, CPP or equivalent.