Payroll Governance Lead

We are seeking a seasoned professional to lead Payroll Governance for our client s operations.The Payroll Governance Lead will be responsible for establishing, implementing, and continuously enhancing the payroll governance framework for the assigned region. This role ensures robust controls, effective risk management, and full compliance across all payroll processes, covering a diverse workforce including on-roll, off-roll, and contractual employees, as well as managing their compensation, pay structures, commissions and incentive plans. This is a newly created role, and the Payroll Governance Lead will play a pivotal role in shaping the organisation s payroll oversight and related risk mitigation.

Governance Framework & Policy Development

Design, document, and implement a comprehensive payroll governance framework, including clear policies, procedures, and control mechanisms in consultation with the Rewards & Compliance team.
Develop best practices for payroll governance, tailored for adhering to local regulatory requirements and
the organisational policies for respective operating country/s.

Risk Management & Compliance
Identify, assess, and monitor payroll risks, including accurate payments, tax compliance & record
keeping. Ensure adherence to all statutory and internal payroll requirements, covering on-roll and off-roll employees, commissions, overtime, sales incentive plans, and other payroll components. Conduct scheduled and ad-hoc payroll audits, including review of payroll records, reconciliations, and controls testing, and to detect and correct errors or anomalies.

Payroll Oversight & Audit
Oversee security of Payroll systems & payroll data. Ensure integrity of Payroll system(s), HR process(s), policies and payouts by ensuring confidentiality of information and security of data. Attend audits, prepare and present audit findings, risk assessments, and recommendations to stakeholders.

Process Improvement & Systems
Continuously improve & implement processes to enhance payroll accuracy and control as governance requirements. Monitor and regularly update the payroll governance processes and related documentation to ensure alignment with changes in local laws and organizational policies. Maintain comprehensive, up-to-date records and ensure all process updates are clearly documented and communicated to relevant stakeholders.

Reporting & Continuous Improvement
Generate detailed reports on payroll compliance, risks, and audit outcomes.

Foster a culture of continuous improvement, accountability, and ethical conduct in payroll governance.

• Bachelor s / master s degree in - Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
  Professional certification in Internal Audit (ACCA, CPA, CIA, CISA, or equivalent) is highly preferred.
  3 - 5 years experience in payroll governance, internal audit, or compliance, ideally with exposure to multi-country payroll environments.
  Knowledge of payroll controls, legislation, and risk management practices.
  High proficiency in payroll systems and data analysis tools.
  Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Fluency in English required, knowledge of French preferred for Francophone country. Knowledge of working with vendor(s) both system and compliance, and knowledge of BGV s preferred. Knowledge of GDPR & SOX Compliance. High integrity, discretion, and attention to detail. Proactive, self-motivated, and able to work independently in a new and evolving structure. Strong project management and organizational skills. Culturally sensitive and adaptable to diverse environments. Opportunity to build and lead a critical new governance function from the ground up. Influence payroll risk management and compliance across multiple regions. A professional and dynamic work culture, with opportunities for learning and career growth. Exposure to diverse markets, and a values-driven culture. A team that emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and a value-driven approach, focusing on entrepreneurship, respect,performance, and teamwork.