Payroll Specialist - 10 month FTC - Maternity Cover

Why Dechra?

Thank you for checking out our vacancy, we're delighted you want to learn more about joining Dechra. A career at Dechra is different. Sure, we're a growing global company with a presence in 27 countries but our purpose is simple - to achieve the sustainable improvement of animal health and welfare globally. If you want to be part of a team that invests in your future and ensures you have the support to reach your full potential and thrive, please read on.

The Opportunity

The Payroll Administrator manages timely and accurate payroll processing across several countries, ensuring compliance with relevant tax laws, labour regulations, and company policies. As part of the People Operations team, this role coordinates with stakeholders, external providers, and finance to ensure correct payments and streamline payroll cycles. Responsibilities include integrating payroll systems, reviewing pay schedules, collaborating with suppliers, and driving automation and process improvements as part of a global HR Operations team.

• Ensure accurate and timely payroll processing across multiple countries
• Maintain compliance with all relevant local regulations and tax laws
• Collaborate with internal teams and external payroll providers for seamless operations
• Monitor and improve payroll process efficiency, identifying opportunities for automation
• Ensure data accuracy and integrity across payroll and HR systems
• Support employee payroll queries and deliver a positive payroll experience

Role Responsibility

So, what will you be doing?

This role has a broad and varied remit and the successful candidate will have responsibility for duties including:

• Process accurate, timely payroll across multiple countries, adhering to local laws and deadlines
• Validate and manage employee data in HRIS and payroll systems
• Ensure compliance with statutory requirements and support audit activities
• Collaborate with external payroll vendors and internal stakeholders for seamless operations
• Prepare and reconcile payroll reports for finance and compliance
• Identify and implement process improvements and automation opportunities
• Resolve employee payroll queries promptly and professionally
• Maintain up-to-date payroll documentation and process guides

The Candidate

Here at Dechra we pride ourselves on being an inclusive employer. We know that individuals' unique background and experience can bring a wealth of variety and expertise to our global workforce. For this role, we're particularly keen to hear from those who have/are:

Essential

• Solid understanding of end-to-end payroll processes, including calculations, statutory compliance, and use of payroll/HRIS systems (e.g., Workday, ADP, SAP, Oracle).
• Experience with multi-country payroll, multiple currencies, and local employment laws.
• Strong analytical skills for payroll data reporting and reconciliation.
• Ability to spot errors, resolve discrepancies, and ensure accuracy.
• Proven track record managing multiple payrolls and strict deadlines.
• Confident, professional communicator and discreet with sensitive information.
• Professional payroll certifications e.g., CPP, GPA, CIPP

Desirable

• Experience with payroll automation tools, RPA, or AI to boost efficiency.
• Skilled in advanced Excel, including formulas and data visualization.
• Knowledge of payroll-benefits integration and supporting audits.
• Multilingual abilities are a plus.

Additional Information:

This role is based in Northwich / hybrid

What we can offer you:

• 33 days annual (inclusive of Bank Holidays)
• Holiday purchase scheme
• Healthcare
• Employee Assistance Program
• Life Assurance
• 8% Employer Pension Contribution
• Enhanced Family Leave
• Discounted Pet Food

About the Company

If a career at Dechra has piqued your interest, find out more at Dechra Careers. Dechra is a growing, global specialist in veterinary pharmaceuticals. Our expertise is in the development, manufacture, marketing and sales of high quality products exclusively for veterinarians worldwide. All applications received are reviewed by our internal talent acquisition team and we will get in touch if your skills and experience match what we're looking for. Should you not hear back from us within 28 days please don't be too disappointed - we may keep your CV on our database for any future vacancies which could be suitable, and we encourage you to keep an eye on our careers site. We value diversity within our global workforce and encourage an inclusive culture. Any questions or queries, please contact us at