At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage global payroll operations and ensure compliance across multiple countries.
- Company: Join McKesson, a Fortune 10 company making healthcare accessible and affordable.
- Benefits: Comprehensive benefits package supporting your physical, mental, and financial well-being.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for process improvement and career advancement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare while growing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: 4+ years of payroll experience, preferably in international settings.
McKesson is an impact-driven, Fortune 10 company that touches virtually every aspect of healthcare. We are known for delivering insights, products, and services that make quality care more accessible and affordable. Here, we focus on the health, happiness, and well-being of you and those we serve – we care. What you do at McKesson matters. We foster a culture where you can grow, make an impact, and are empowered to bring new ideas. Together, we thrive as we shape the future of health for patients, our communities, and our people. If you want to be part of tomorrow’s health today, we want to hear from you.
Position Summary
The Global Payroll Specialist is responsible for executing end-to-end payroll operations across multiple international entities, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and a high-quality employee experience. This role applies sound judgement to resolve complex payroll issues, manage employee queries, and maintain data integrity across integrated systems (e.g. Workday and ADP Celergo). The specialist supports audit and compliance requirements while identifying opportunities to improve processes and reduce manual effort.
Key Responsibilities
- Execute end-to-end payroll processing across multiple countries using ADP Celergo
- Review and validate payroll inputs and perform payroll audits (gross-to-net, variances, retroactivity)
- Manage off-cycle payrolls, adjustments, and special payments in line with SLAs and controls
- Investigate and resolve complex payroll issues, discrepancies, and employee queries
- Ensure compliance with local statutory requirements, internal policies, and audit standards
- Perform control checks, maintain documentation, and support for internal and external audits
- Validate payroll data flows between systems and collaborate with systems/IT to resolve data or integration-related issues
- Partner cross-functionally with relevant internal teams and external vendors, as needed, to support accurate and timely payroll delivery
- Support payroll system updates, testing, and new country implementations
- Identify and drive process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce manual effort
Skills & Competencies
- Strong knowledge of payroll processing and compliance across Ireland
- Knowledge of payroll processing in the UK, Malta, and India is desirable but not essential
- Applies critical thinking and sound judgment to resolve complex payroll issues and identify root causes
- Experience working with integrated payroll and HR systems (e.g. Workday, ADP Celergo)
- Analytical mindset with strong attention to detail and controls focus
- Ability to manage high-volume workloads independently in deadline-driven environments
- Strong communication skills with the ability to explain complex payroll concepts clearly
Minimum Requirements
- Degree or equivalent work experience
- Typically requires 4+ years of relevant payroll experience
- Experience in multi-country or international payroll environments preferred
- Hands-on experience with Workday and Service Now
- ADP Celergo experience essential
At McKesson, we care about the well-being of the patients and communities we serve, and that starts with caring for our people. That’s why we have a Total Rewards package that includes comprehensive benefits to support physical, mental, and financial well-being. Our Total Rewards offerings serve the different needs of our diverse employee population and ensure they are the healthiest versions of themselves. As part of Total Rewards, we are proud to offer a competitive compensation package at McKesson. This is determined by several factors, including performance, experience and skills, equity, regular job market evaluations, and geographical markets. The pay range shown below is aligned with McKesson's pay philosophy, and pay will always be compliant with any applicable regulations. In addition to base pay, other compensation, such as an annual bonus or long-term incentive opportunities may be offered. Our Base Pay Range for this position £44,900 - £74,800
Global Payroll Specialist employer: McKesson
McKesson is an excellent employer that fosters a collaborative work culture, encouraging innovation and impactful contributions within the pharmaceutical industry. Located in Greater London, employees benefit from a vibrant city atmosphere, professional growth opportunities, and a commitment to developing strategic partnerships that drive success. With a focus on employee development and a supportive environment, McKesson stands out as a rewarding place to advance your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Global Payroll Specialist
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at McKesson!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at McKesson.
We think you need these skills to ace Global Payroll Specialist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at McKesson. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to McKesson and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at McKesson. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to McKesson's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at McKesson
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with McKesson.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at McKesson will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact McKesson and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.