EMEA Payroll Specialist in City of London

Our client is an established international financial institution recognised for its disciplined governance, collaborative culture, and commitment to operational excellence. Serving a sophisticated client base across global markets, the firm maintains a high-performance environment built on precision, accountability, and trust. This role sits within the London HR function, taking full ownership of payroll and benefits across the UK and select European entities. The successful candidate will ensure seamless monthly processing, regulatory compliance, and a first-class employee experience through meticulous delivery and proactive stakeholder engagement. Experience of ADP highly desirable.

Key Accountabilities

• Payroll Management (60%)
  • Manage end-to-end payroll processing for multiple UK and European offices, ensuring full accuracy, compliance, and timely payment cycles.
  • Maintain employee records in the HR and payroll systems, processing new hires, leavers, compensation updates, and transfers.
  • Calculate adjustments including incentives, allowances, statutory payments, and reconciliations.
  • Prepare and post monthly payroll journals, conduct variance analysis, and support financial reporting cycles.
  • Act as the primary point of contact for payroll-related queries, resolving issues promptly and maintaining audit-ready documentation.
• Benefits Administration (30%)
  • Oversee the administration of employee benefits such as healthcare, life assurance, pension, and other well-being schemes.
  • Coordinate enrolments, renewals, and monthly provider updates while validating invoices and data accuracy.
  • Support annual benefits reviews, policy updates, and communications to ensure employees remain informed and engaged.
  • Ensure pension auto-enrolment obligations are fully met and contributions reconciled accurately.
• Compliance & Controls
  • Ensure adherence to HMRC, GDPR, and internal risk-management policies across all payroll and benefits activities.
  • Manage statutory submissions, including year-end filings and cross-border compliance requirements.
  • Maintain and enhance internal process documentation, identifying areas for streamlining and automation.
  • Produce regular management information and analytics to support HR and Finance teams in decision-making.
• Stakeholder Collaboration
  • Partner with HR, Finance, and external vendors to maintain robust governance, reporting, and process efficiency.
  • Support internal and external audits with data accuracy, reporting packs, and control evidence.
  • Provide training and advisory support to managers and staff on payroll and benefits procedures.

Candidate Profile

• 5–20 years’ experience managing payroll and benefits within a multi-entity or international corporate setting.
• In-depth knowledge of UK payroll legislation, tax, and pension processes; familiarity with European jurisdictions is advantageous.
• Advanced Excel capability and confidence with integrated HR/payroll platforms (ADP experience highly beneficial).
• Strong analytical skills, exceptional attention to detail, and a proactive approach to process improvement.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a confidential and service-oriented mindset.
• Degree-qualified or equivalent professional experience within a financial or professional services environment.

The Offer

• Permanent position with hybrid flexibility (3 days office / 2 days remote) - although 5 days is required during probation / training.
• City-based office in a high-performing, collaborative environment.
• Competitive compensation with comprehensive benefits and professional development support.
• You will be the sole Payroll specialist, effectively managing EMEA Payroll for the business.
• Strong Compensation offered earning upwards in your through cash, pension, bonus etc.