Functional Solution Architect in London

Zalaris is a rapidly expanding global leader in Tech HR and payroll solutions. We foster open communication and short decision-making paths that encourage creative and innovative thinking. Zalaris’ culture is rooted in values inspired by Nordic working ethos: everyone matters, aiming high and team spirit. We’re committed to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace where everyone brings their own uniqueness.

As a Functional Solution Architect – SAP Payroll, you will lead the design and implementation of scalable, compliant, and standardized payroll solutions for our Managed Services customers. You will play a key role in driving SAP Payroll transformation projects in the UK and Ireland, ensuring alignment with the Zalaris Standard Solution and our ZASAM (Zalaris Smart Activate Methodology) — a modern SAP implementation approach enhanced with AI. This role combines solution architecture, project leadership, and client advisory, with a strong focus on standardization, automation, and AI-enabled delivery.

Your Responsibilities:

• Architect end-to-end SAP Payroll solutions, including payroll setup, employee data management, integrations, and finance postings.
• Define and manage global templates while aligning local UK & Ireland payroll requirements.
• Lead SAP Payroll implementation projects across all phases using ZASAM methodology.
• Drive high-quality delivery by owning key design decisions, risks, and escalations.
• Actively leverage AI tools to improve solution design, system setup, testing, and payroll validation.
• Identify opportunities to automate payroll processes and improve efficiency through technology.
• Advise customers on payroll transformation and guide them towards standard, scalable solutions.
• Ensure adherence to Zalaris governance, standards, and documentation practices.
• Collaborate closely with project managers, integration architects, and operations teams across projects.
• Mentor consultants and contribute to capability building within the team.

Your Experience and Skills:

Core Experience:

• Extensive experience as SAP Payroll Consultant, Lead Consultant, or Solution Architect.
• Proven track record in end-to-end SAP Payroll implementations (ECC or ECP).
• Experience working in multi-country or global payroll environments.

Technical & Functional Skills:

• Strong knowledge of SAP HCM Payroll, particularly UK & Ireland.
• Experience with payroll schemas, wage types, and statutory reporting.
• Solid understanding of integrations (e.g. SAP CPI, APIs, interfaces).
• Good understanding of payroll accounting, finance integration, and data migration processes.

AI & Innovation:

• Practical experience with AI tools in delivery, or strong motivation to adopt and apply AI in daily work.
• Ability to use AI to improve solution design, testing, and process optimisation.

Professional Skills:

• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Ability to lead workshops and influence decision-making.
• Structured, analytical, and solution-oriented approach.
• High level of ownership and accountability.

Advantages:

• SuccessFactors or SAP certifications.
• Broader experience in payroll transformation or advisory.
• Exposure to automation, digitalisation, or process improvement initiatives.

What we offer - Financial benefits:

• Customer and Employee Referral schemes.
• Occupational sick pay (9 weeks).
• Occupational maternity leave package (12 weeks).
• Life assurance (3x basic salary).
• Employer pensions contributions of 5%.
• Bonus scheme with accelerators.
• Private Medical Insurance (with option to add dependents).
• Employee education and apprenticeship opportunities (i.e. free SAP learning and/or relevant qualifications).
• Financial rewards for long service and achievements.
• Free eye tests.
• Monthly ZALOTTO! (£100 cash prize draw).

What we offer - Non-Financial benefits:

• Work-life balance and flexibility ethos.
• Strong leadership with an open-door policy.
• Non-hierarchical approach to people management.
• Company social and team bonding events.
• Annual Leave Purchase scheme.
• Additional leave for Long Service (+1d holiday from start of 5th year of service).
• Sabbatical.
• Corporate branded merchandise.
• Employee recognition program.
• Zalaris mentorship program.
• Mental health support.
• Employee Assistance Programme (“Zealth”).
• Paid time off for community volunteering (