Johannesburg: Payroll Operations Manager posted by WatersEdge Solutions

Location: Hybrid
Employment Type: Full-Time
Industry: Global Payroll | HR Tech | Employer of Record

WatersEdge Solutions is partnering with a fast-growing global HR tech business to recruit a dynamic and detail-driven Payroll Operations Manager. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in complex, fast-moving environments and wants to play a key role in delivering accurate, scalable payroll operations across a global client base.

About the Role

As Payroll Operations Manager, you will oversee end-to-end payroll operations across multiple territories, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and excellent service delivery. This role is ideal for someone with strong operational discipline, analytical problem-solving ability, and a passion for improving processes in a high-growth, globally distributed environment. Youll work closely with internal and external stakeholders across jurisdictions while helping to scale a world-class payroll function.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and coordinate end-to-end payroll processes across multiple territories
• Ensure payroll accuracy, efficiency, and compliance across global operations
• Manage and resolve payroll-related requests and queries promptly
• Build and manage strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders across jurisdictions
• Monitor stakeholder performance and ensure adherence to agreed SLAs
• Lead and support process improvement and payroll automation initiatives
• Drive efficiency and scalability across payroll operations
• Take ownership of high-impact projects and deadline-driven operational tasks
• Support the broader payroll operations function as business needs evolve

What Youll Bring

• Relevant tertiary qualification
• 25 years of operational experience
• Strong organisational skills and ability to prioritise effectively
• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work comfortably with complexity and ambiguity
• Strong stakeholder management capability
• Affinity for technology and operational improvement
• Strong customer service mindset
• High energy, self-motivation, and positive attitude

Nice to Have

• Previous experience in global payroll
• Experience in a startup or high-growth environment
• Bi-lingual capability
• Exposure to automation or process optimisation projects

Whats On Offer

• Competitive salary package
• Share incentive scheme
• Generous vacation policy
• Hybrid working model with flexibility and autonomy
• Team perks including meals, snacks, and a collaborative environment
• Opportunity to contribute to a scaling global payroll function in a high-growth business

Company Culture

This is a business built around growth, ownership, and continuous improvement. The culture values curiosity, collaboration, and high standards, with a strong bias toward impact and problem-solving. Its a strong fit for someone who enjoys fast-paced environments, wants to contribute meaningfully, and is motivated by both challenge and long-term growth.

Please note: if you have not been contacted within 10 working days, consider your application unsuccessful.