Assistant Payroll Manager - EMEA (Remote)

The role provides subject matter expertise across multi-country payroll compliance, external vendor management, process optimisation and payroll control frameworks. This role acts as the deputy to the Payroll Manager and ensures continuity of operations during periods of absence. Key Responsibilities Support the development and execution of internal controls Ensure payroll processing across all applicable jurisdictions remains accurate, timely and compliant with local employment tax legislation. Maintain strong internal controls and support audit readiness, including segregation of duties, validation checks and compliance documentation. Build and manage relationships with external payroll providers (e.g., Deel, Oracle, bureau partners) ensuring SLAs, compliance and quality expectations are met. Partner with Finance to support month-end close activities including reconciliation review and variance analysis. Support audit activity, including controls testing, evidence preparation and compliance reporting. Provide coaching, support and leadership to the payroll team, including acting as deputy decision-maker when required. Support data governance, GDPR compliance and secure handling of sensitive employee information. Act as a key stakeholder and SME for payroll-related system enhancements, implementation projects and cross-functional process changes. Skills and experience needed: Essential Demonstrable end-to-end payroll experience across multiple EMEA jurisdictions. Strong technical payroll knowledge including statutory compliance, local tax regulations and audit expectations. Vendor management experience, including SLA governance and escalations. Ability to work under pressure, prioritise competing deadlines and manage high-risk activities. Strong analytical and reporting skills, with advanced experience in Excel. Experience providing oversight, review and quality assurance of payroll output. Strong communication and stakeholder management skills. Experience with automation or process improvement projects. Desirable Working knowledge of HCM/Payroll systems most notably Oracle. Experience in a matrixed or shared service payroll model. Familiarity with payroll delivery models involving outsourced providers (e.g., Deel, bureaus, managed services). Experience participating in payroll system upgrades, transformation activity, or ERP change management. #LI-LC1 #EMEA