Durban: Payroll Specialist

The Payroll Specialist is responsible for the accurate, timely, and compliant execution of all payroll processes within the country. The role ensures governance, audit readiness, and continuous improvement of payroll operations to support a high-performing and compliant Human Capital function. It also contributes to effective people cost management by ensuring accurate data, efficient systems, and strong coordination between HC, Finance, and line management. Key Responsibilities Payroll Management and Execution Manage the full end-to-end payroll process, ensuring accurate and timely payments to all employees. Validate and process monthly payroll inputs, including new hires, terminations, transfers, and changes to employee data. Review and approve reconciliations, payroll journals, statutory submissions, and vendor payments. Ensure compliance with all payroll-related legislation, tax, and statutory requirements. Conduct payroll checks and controls to ensure zero errors and on-time submissions. Governance, Audit, and Compliance Maintain robust payroll governance frameworks, ensuring strong internal controls are in place. Address any audit findings promptly and ensure corrective actions are implemented. Ensure payroll policies, procedures, and authorisation matrices are adhered to consistently. Support internal and external audit processes by preparing required documentation and reconciliations. Data Accuracy and Systems Management Maintain master data accuracy across payroll and HC systems. Conduct regular self-audits and exception reporting to ensure data integrity. Partner with the HC Systems and IT teams to implement improvements, resolve issues, and optimise payroll platforms. Support system upgrades, integrations, and automation initiatives to improve efficiency and accuracy. People Cost Reporting and Analytics Prepare monthly and quarterly reports on headcount, people costs, overtime, and leave balances. Analyse variances between actual and budgeted payroll costs and provide insight to HC and Finance. Track vacancy savings and other payroll-related metrics to support workforce planning and budgeting. Ensure accurate and timely payroll data submissions to Finance for financial reporting purposes. Stakeholder Management Partner with Finance, HC Business Partners, and Line Managers to resolve payroll queries and ensure alignment on people cost management. Liaise with external payroll vendors or service providers to ensure service-level compliance and quality. Communicate payroll timelines, changes, and outcomes to relevant stakeholders clearly and professionally. Team Management and Development Manage, coach, and develop direct reports to deliver service excellence and continuous improvement. Conduct regular one-on-one discussions and support individual development plans (IDPs). Foster a culture of accountability, accuracy, and customer service within the payroll team. Qualifications, Competencies & Experience Bachelors degree in Human Resources, Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration. Payroll or tax certification will be advantageous 5 to 7 years experience in payroll operations within a large or complex organisation. Advanced Excel and data reconciliation skills. Payroll systems expertise and process governance. Strong analytical and numerical ability. Understanding of HC processes and interfaces (e.g., time & attendance, master data). Reporting and audit preparation capability High attention to detail and accuracy. Customer service orientation with strong problem-solving ability. Effective communicator with strong interpersonal skills. Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines. Integrity, accountability, and a continuous improvement mindset Closing date : Monday, 3 November 2025