International Payroll Lead (6-Month Fixed-Term)

About the role

This six‑month fixed‑term position leads payroll operations across 13 European and APAC locations, covering roughly 1,150 employees. You will manage outsourced payroll providers, ensure compliance, and drive continuous improvement in payroll processes.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee delivery of outsourced payrolls in 13 international locations, guaranteeing accuracy and timely processing.
• Manage and develop a small internal payroll team, providing coaching and technical support.
• Serve as primary liaison for payroll vendors, Finance, HR, and Compliance teams across multiple jurisdictions.
• Maintain payroll controls, pensions, general‑ledger reporting, reconciliations and audit requirements.
• Support payroll system and HRIS integrations, testing and transformation projects.
• Produce payroll reporting and management information while driving process improvements.

Required profile

• Proven experience managing international outsourced payrolls across multiple countries.
• Previous payroll leadership or team‑management experience.
• Strong knowledge of payroll legislation, governance, controls and compliance.
• Experience working with multiple payroll vendors and external providers.
• Confident stakeholder management at senior level and handling complex payroll issues.

Required skills

• Advanced Excel (Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, data analysis).
• Experience with payroll systems and HRIS integrations.
• CIPP qualification (or equivalent) – preferred.

What we offer

• Competitive salary of £70,000 per year (pro‑rata).
• Hybrid working model – three days in the Aldgate office.
• Opportunity to lead a global payroll function and drive transformation.