Manager: Payroll

Rhodes University; Oos-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 693 000 - 903 000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious higher education institution in South Africa is seeking a Payroll Manager to ensure efficient functioning of payroll processes. The role requires significant experience in payroll processing, compliance with financial legislation, and team management. Ideal candidates should have a relevant degree and previous experience in a similar role within a large organization. This position offers a salary range of R693,760 to R902,270 per annum.

Qualifications

• 6 years of relevant experience in payroll processing.
• Experience managing a payroll team of at least 3 years.
• Intermediate Excel skills with willingness to learn advanced Excel.

Responsibilities

• Ensure accurate and timely processing of payroll.
• Lead continuous improvements of payroll-related processes.
• Manage compliance with legislative requirements.

Skills

Payroll processing

Financial compliance

Team management

Excel

SARS experience

Education

Relevant B. Degree (NQF Level 7)

Tools

VIP Payroll system

Job description

Manager: Payroll (Grade 15)

Finance Division

The Finance Division invites suitably qualified candidates to join their team.

Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application please contact 046 603 8753.

Main Objectives

To ensure the smooth and efficient running of the Payroll Section within the Finance Division. The Payroll Manager plays a pivotal role in the accurate and timely processing of payroll and related transactions, in line with the Payroll Governance Framework, to ensure good governance and sound controls to comply with legislation, policies, and procedures. In addition, the Payroll Manager, in consultation with the People and Culture Division and the I&TS Division, leads continuous improvements of payroll‑related business processes and systems aligned to the Payroll Governance Framework, ensuring more efficient and effective, strengthening controls, and contributing to the objectives of the University.

Requirements

• A relevant B. Degree (NQF Level 7) plus approximately 6 years’ relevant experience, where relevant experience includes:

• Working in a Finance/Accounting environment with proven experience in payroll processing of a large employee base of at least a thousand and multiple payrolls (ideally monthly and weekly).
• Previous payroll systems experience, preferably VIP.
• Previous experience ensuring compliance in line with prevailing legislation, specifically related to but not limited to PAYE, UIF, LRA, BCEA and relevant financial legislation.
• Previous experience working with SARS online systems, SARS‑related submissions and managing SARS verifications and audits.
• At least 3 years’ experience managing a payroll team.
• Intermediate Excel skills with a willingness to learn advanced Excel.
• Experience in a Higher Education Institution will serve as an advantage.

Application Process

It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The following documents are required:

• A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following:
  • Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
  • Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.
• A strong and succinct motivation outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.

Please note that no hand‑written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.

Selection Process (provisional date, subject to change)

• Short‑listing meeting: TBC.
• The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.
• Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date.

Remuneration per annum (Grade 15)

Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R693 760

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R902 270

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. This post is advertised as a permanent post, but the University may opt to appoint on a fixed‑term contract of not less than three years. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.

Closing Date

07 November 2025

This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible.

If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

EEO Statement

Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply.

Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies.

Core Values and Principles

Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion.

Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision-making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.