Role Purpose
The Regional Payroll Specialist is responsible for owning the operational delivery, financial integrity and statutory compliance of payroll across EMEA, the UK and designated APAC entities. Working closely with HR, Finance and outsourced payroll providers, the role ensures payroll operations are delivered accurately, compliantly and on time while maintaining strong financial controls, supporting month-end close activities and driving continuous improvement across regional payroll processes. The role combines payroll expertise with financial analysis, governance and business partnering to support the wider Finance organisation.
Who We're Looking For
We're looking for a proactive, analytical and commercially minded payroll professional who combines strong technical payroll expertise with financial acumen and a passion for operational excellence. The successful candidate will take ownership, build trusted relationships and continuously improve payroll processes across a multi-country environment.
Role Scope
- Regional payroll operations across EMEA, the UK and designated APAC entities
- Payroll accounting and financial reporting
- HMRC statutory compliance
- ADP and outsourced payroll provider management
- Payroll governance, controls and audit readiness
- Payroll transformation and continuous improvement
- Payroll master data governance and integrity
Key Accountabilities
Operational Excellence: Own the end-to-end payroll lifecycle, ensuring accurate, compliant and timely payroll delivery.
Financial Stewardship: Own payroll journals, accruals, balance sheet reconciliations, variance analysis, budgeting support, payroll-related intercompany cross-charges, and ensure timely resolution of reconciling items.
Governance & Regulatory Compliance: Manage PAYE, National Insurance, pensions, P11D, PAYE Settlement Agreements (PSA), statutory tax payments, payroll tax reconciliations, and maintain a robust internal control environment, ensuring compliance with company policies, approval workflows, segregation of duties, and regulatory requirements.
Business Partnership: Partner with HR, Finance, business leaders and outsourced providers while coordinating bonus administration.
Continuous Improvement: Drive automation, standardization, SOP ownership, payroll system enhancements, acquisitions, onboarding activities, and support Finance transformation initiatives related to payroll processes and reporting.
Performance & Analytics: Develop and monitor payroll KPIs, payroll provider performance, payroll accuracy metrics, reconciliation status, and identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and service quality.
Experience & Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years' multi-country payroll experience
- Strong UK payroll and HMRC knowledge
- Experience with outsourced payroll providers (e.g. ADP)
- Payroll accounting, journals and reconciliations
- Advanced Microsoft Excel
- ERP experience preferably JD Edwards
- Experience working within a multinational organization
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- CIPP qualification (or working towards)
Regional Payroll Specialist employer: The Gowan Co.
As a Regional Payroll Specialist, you will thrive in a dynamic and supportive work environment that values operational excellence and continuous improvement. Our company fosters a culture of collaboration, offering ample opportunities for professional growth and development while ensuring compliance and financial integrity across diverse regions. With a focus on innovation and employee well-being, we provide a rewarding workplace where your contributions directly impact our success.
