Payroll Manager

University of Fort Hare; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1 400 000 - 1 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent player in the retail sector is seeking an experienced Payroll Manager in Cape Town. This role involves managing payroll operations, ensuring compliance with statutory requirements, and leading a team of payroll professionals. The ideal candidate will have a tertiary qualification in Accounting, 2-3 years of supervisory experience in payroll, and advanced knowledge of SAP systems.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 with tertiary qualification in Accounting.
• Minimum 2-3 years supervisory experience in payroll management.
• Experience within the retail sector preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end payroll processing ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Authorize payroll runs and oversee preparation of payslips.
• Conduct user testing for payroll system configurations.

Skills

SAP Systems knowledge

MS Excel proficiency

Attention to detail

Leadership abilities

Customer service orientation

Education

Tertiary qualification in Accounting

Job description

R 1400000 – R 1500000 Annually Cost To Company

Our client, a prominent player in the retail sector, is seeking an experienced Payroll Manager to join their dynamic Human Resources team. This is an excellent opportunity to take ownership of payroll operations within a fast‑paced, high‑volume environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end payroll processing ensuring accuracy and compliance with statutory requirements
• Authorize payroll runs and oversee the preparation of payslips and bank files
• Conduct user testing for payroll system configurations and process bulk data uploads
• Prepare monthly and ad‑hoc management reports with trend analysis
• Perform pre and post‑payroll audits to ensure data integrity
• Manage and develop a team of payroll professionals
• Ensure compliance with SARS, Department of Labour, and other regulatory bodies
• Handle inter‑payroll transfers and resolve escalated queries
• Maintain cross‑functional relationships with Finance, IT, and divisional stakeholders

Requirements

• Essential Qualifications & Experience:
  • Grade 12 with a tertiary qualification in Accounting
  • Minimum 2-3 years supervisory experience in payroll management
  • Experience within the retail sector preferred
  • Payroll certification will be advantageous
  • Current headcount is approximately 170,000 employees, including non‑RSA, and they run payroll across more than 20 companies
• Technical Skills:
  • Well‑developed SAP Systems knowledge (or similar payroll systems) beneficial
  • Advanced MS Excel proficiency
  • Strong understanding of South African statutory and legislative payroll requirements
• Core Competencies:
  • Exceptional attention to detail and analytical thinking
  • Strong leadership and people management abilities
  • Excellent planning, organizing, and time management skills
  • Customer service orientation with problem‑solving capability
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines
  • Effective communication and reporting skills
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted