Payroll Compliance & Systems Lead

SA Metal Group (Pty) Ltd; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

SA Metal Group (Pty) Ltd is seeking an experienced payroll leader to manage the full payroll function across HR and Finance, ensuring deadlines and statutory compliance. The role includes mentoring payroll staff, aligning payroll with business goals, and acting as the main liaison for auditors and regulatory bodies.

You will oversee benefits governance, system configurations, and continuous process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy in payroll operations.

Responsibilities

• Manage the entire payroll function, coordinating with HR, Finance, and department heads to meet strict payroll deadlines
• Train, mentor, and supervise payroll administrators, managing performance/ discipline and capacity planning
• Partner with HR, Finance, and executive leadership to align payroll strategies with broader business goals
• Act as the principal point of contact for internal/external auditors and statutory bodies for query resolution and audits
• Ensure statutory compliance with local labour laws, tax filings (e.g. EMP201/501), and the oversight of benefit deductions such as medical aid and retirement funds
• Manage the governance of employee benefits, including retirement funds, medical aid schemes, and third-party reconciliations
• Establish rigorous risk management systems, fraud controls, and audit-ready documentation to minimize business and financial risks
• Draft, review, and update payroll policies, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and governance frameworks
• Own the configuration and optimization of the core payroll systems and integrated Time & Attendance platforms
• Identify operational bottlenecks and drive technological improvements or system upgrades to increase efficiency
• Reconcile payroll control accounts, prepare executive payroll analytics, and assist with internal and external audits
• Monitor approved payroll cut-off dates, absence management policies, and payroll adjustments to ensure accuracy

Job description

SA Metal Group (Pty) Ltd is seeking an experienced payroll leader to manage the full payroll function across HR and Finance, ensuring deadlines and statutory compliance. The role includes mentoring payroll staff, aligning payroll with business goals, and acting as the main liaison for auditors and regulatory bodies.

You will oversee benefits governance, system configurations, and continuous process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy in payroll operations.