Global Payroll Manager in Nantwich

Remote/ Hybrid Full-time

Purpose of the role: As the Global Payroll Manager you are responsible for overseeing the accurate and timely delivery of global payroll services for CE Global Partners' clients. This includes ensuring compliance with all relevant payroll, tax, and employment regulations, managing third-party vendor relationships, and collaborating with internal teams to ensure a high-quality, seamless payroll service is delivered. This is a strategic and operational leadership role, serving as the key liaison between clients, the payroll team, and cross-functional departments such as HR and Finance. You will be responsible for managing team performance, driving service improvements, and maintaining strong client relationships to ensure smooth operations. In addition, you will oversee the accurate, timely, and compliant delivery of payroll services across multiple jurisdictions, maintaining strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners. Clear, professional communication and proactive issue resolution will be key to success in this role.

Key Responsibilities:

• Client and Stakeholder Management: Act as the primary contact for clients, including senior stakeholders (e.g. CHRO, HR Directors), ensuring high levels of service and proactive communication. Maintain strong relationships with outsourced payroll vendors, benefits providers, and internal departments including HR, Finance, and employee services. Partner with HR to ensure timely resolution of employee payroll queries and alignment on employee data.
• Payroll Operations & Compliance: Manage and oversee the end-to-end processing of international payrolls across multiple client accounts. Ensure all payrolls are processed accurately, on time, and in compliance with local tax and labour laws. Review and approve complex variable pay elements, such as commissions, bonuses, and adjustments. Provide expert guidance on payroll requirements, including statutory payments, benefits, pensions, and local compliance obligations. Monitor and manage payroll governance controls, including variance analysis, audit trails, and regulatory checks.
• Systems & Technology: Own and lead payroll system upgrades and implementations, including vendor selection, system configuration, and rollout in line with best practices. Support ongoing maintenance and optimisation of payroll systems, ensuring data integrity and operational efficiency.
• Finance & Reporting: Support the Finance team with payroll-related reporting, reconciliations, and month-end close activities. Ensure accurate and timely delivery of payroll data for use in audits and internal financial reviews.

Knowledge:

• In-depth understanding of payroll regulations, tax laws, and compliance requirements across multiple countries.
• Proficiency in managing third-party payroll providers and vendor relationships.
• Familiarity with statutory and non-statutory payments, including mandated leave entitlements such as parental leave, sick leave, and other local benefits.
• Experience in implementing and upgrading payroll systems, including data migration and user testing.
• Solid working knowledge of employee benefits, retirement/pension plans, and tax-efficient contribution schemes.
• Understanding of payroll accounting and its integration with financial systems.

Required Skills:

• Significant experience managing international or global payroll operations, preferably in a multi-client or outsourcing environment.
• Strong knowledge of payroll legislation, taxation, and statutory compliance across multiple regions.
• Proven ability to manage third-party payroll vendors and coordinate with internal cross-functional teams (e.g., HR, Finance, Legal).
• Demonstrated experience with payroll platforms (e.g., ADP, Workday, SAP) and leading payroll technology implementations.
• Advanced Excel skills, including working with large datasets, pivot tables, and complex formulas.
• Excellent attention to detail and analytical ability.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with senior stakeholders.
• Experience managing calculations and processing for variable compensation (e.g., bonuses, commissions).
• Working knowledge of payroll-related compliance reporting, with awareness of country-specific year-end obligations.

Desirable:

• Relevant professional qualification is preferred.
• Project management skills related to payroll system upgrades or transformation initiatives.