Job Title: Senior Payroll Officer Location: Johannesburg Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Salary & Benefits
- Basic salary: R30 000 – R36 000 per month
- 50% medical aid contribution (up to a maximum of R3 268)
- 6% pension fund contribution
- Group life cover
- Funeral plan
- Income protection/security cover
Purpose of the Role
We’re searching for a skilled Payroll Supervisor to oversee and manage accurate, compliant, and efficient payroll operations for our client – a leading player in the media & entertainment sector.
This role goes beyond payroll processing: you’ll be the key link between Finance, HR, and leadership teams, driving payroll excellence, compliance, and system optimisation.
Key Responsibilities
Payroll Processing & Administration
- Supervise and coordinate day-to-day payroll operations to ensure accurate and timely processing of salaries, wages, and benefits.
- Capture, verify, and maintain employee payroll data (new hires, terminations, transfers, salary adjustments, allowances).
- Process monthly payroll runs and reconcile payroll data.
- Administer statutory deductions (PAYE, UIF, SDL) and third‑party payments (medical aid, pension/provident funds, garnishees).
- Maintain payroll records and employee files in compliance with company policy.
Compliance & Statutory Requirements
- Ensure compliance with SARS, UIF, PAYE, SDL, BCEA, and other relevant legislation.
- Prepare and submit accurate statutory reports to SARS.
- Complete submissions for terminated employees, maternity leave, and other labour requirements.
- Reconcile internal payroll records against external reports and remain current with all payroll and labour legislation.
Reporting & Financial Support
- Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual payroll reports for management, HR, and Finance.
- Process month‑end journal entries to Sage Evolution and complete general ledger administration.
- Provide accurate data for budget planning, forecasting, and cost analysis related to payroll.
Audit, Controls & Process Improvement
- Maintain and update payroll policies, procedures, and internal controls.
- Support internal and external audits by preparing required documentation.
- Drive payroll process improvements, automation initiatives, and system upgrades.
Stakeholder Support
- Handle payroll queries and discrepancies professionally and timeously.
- Liaise with external stakeholders including auditors, tax authorities, and benefit providers.
- Support HR with onboarding and off‑boarding processes from a payroll perspective.
People Management & Team Development
- Supervise, mentor, and develop payroll staff to enhance accuracy, compliance, and efficiency.
- Allocate tasks, monitor performance, and provide training where necessary.
Minimum Requirements
- Diploma in Payroll/HR/Finance (essential); Degree preferred.
- 5+ years operational payroll/finance experience (essential). Proven 3+ years of experience within a Group Company environment.
- 2+ years supervisory experience (essential).
- Proficiency in Sage 300 People (intermediate) and Sage Evolution (basic).
- Strong Microsoft Excel skills.
- Solid knowledge of South African payroll legislation.
- Accuracy, attention to detail, and strong organisational skills.
- Excellent communication and leadership abilities