Global HR Payroll Optimisation Manager

Robert Walters; Cardiff; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading talent solutions company is seeking a Global HR Payroll Optimisation Manager in Cardiff for a 7-month contract. The role involves designing and implementing payroll processes, ensuring compliance, and managing payroll-related risks. Candidates should have extensive global payroll expertise and experience in payroll optimisation and domestic operations. This hybrid position allows two days in the office each week. Competitive compensation and a supportive work culture are offered.

Qualifications

• Extensive global payroll expertise across EMEA, APAC, and the UK.
• Experience in domestic and shadow payroll operations.
• Proven payroll optimisation project lead and SME.
• Hands-on experience in day-to-day payroll processing.
• Experienced in payroll process improvement.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and ensure compliance of payroll and benefits processes.
• Maintain robust payroll processes in compliance with laws.
• Establish and enhance payroll processes and controls.
• Own and manage payroll-related risks.
• Manage, motivate, and develop employees for optimal performance.

Skills

Global payroll expertise

Domestic and shadow payroll operations

Payroll optimisation

Day-to-day payroll processing

Payroll process improvement

Job description

Global HR Payroll Optimisation Manager

Location: Cardiff
Job Type: 7-month contract
Work Setup: Hybrid - 2 days in the office (Wednesday & Thursday)

Who We Are

Robert Walters is the world's most trusted talent solutions business. Across the globe, we deliver recruitment, outsourcing, and talent advisory services for businesses of all sizes, opening doors for people with diverse skills, ambitions, and backgrounds.

Who You Will Work With

Our client is a financial services company offering a range of products and solutions. It focuses on long-term growth and responsible business practices while promoting a collaborative culture with opportunities for development and contribution.

What You'll Do

• Design, implement, and ensure compliance of payroll and benefits processes across HR, Finance, and external partners, including tax authorities, leveraging automation and outsourcing for efficiency and cost optimisation
• Maintain robust, tightly controlled payroll processes in line with local, state, and federal laws, collaborating with tax advisors and Group Tax to access timely data and meet reporting obligations
• Establish and enhance processes and controls, upskill payroll, HR, and finance teams, and ensure accurate reconciliation of payroll and tax data
• Own and manage payroll-related risks, working with Risk Oversight, Supplier Management, Information Security, and Group Tax; produce MI, monitor outcomes, and escape issues as needed
• Manage, motivate, and develop employees at all levels to maximise team performance in alignment with company policies, procedures, and the Partnership Agreement

What You Bring

• Extensive global payroll expertise across EMEA, APAC, and the UK
• Experience in domestic and shadow payroll operations, including working with payroll bureaus
• Proven payroll optimisation project lead and SME, driving process, system, and team improvements
• Hands‑on experience in day‑to‑day (BAU) payroll processing, ensuring accurate and compliant payroll delivery
• Experienced in payroll process improvement, driving efficiency, accuracy, and compliance across teams and systems

What's Next

If you are ready to take the next step, apply now! Successful applicants will be contacted directly by a recruiter to discuss the role more.

We are committed to creating an inclusive recruitment experience. If you require support or adjustments to the recruitment process, our Adjustment Concierge Service is here to help. Please feel free to contact us at to discuss how we can support you.

This position is being recruited on behalf of our client through our Outsourcing service line. Resource Solutions Limited, trading as Robert Walters, acts as an employment business and agency, partnering with top organizations to help them find the best talent. We welcome applications from all candidates and are committed to providing equal opportunities.