Payroll Team Leader - Europe

We are looking for a talented Payroll Team Leader – Europe to join our team in Darlington, United Kingdom. This role will oversee payroll operations across multiple European countries, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and exceptional service delivery. This is a 12-month temporary position covering maternity leave. In this role, you will make an impact in the following ways: Lead and mentor a team of payroll professionals, fostering engagement and accountability through regular one-to-one meetings and performance reviews. Ensure accurate and timely payroll processing across multiple European countries, maintaining compliance with local regulations and company policies. Act as the escalation point for complex payroll queries and system issues, driving timely and effective resolutions. Oversee SOx-compliant payroll approvals and serve as a signatory for manual payments, safeguarding financial integrity. Drive continuous improvement initiatives (e.g., 6S, VST, 7 Step) and contribute to process optimisation projects, including upcoming payroll implementations for Belgium and Italy. Collaborate closely with HR Operations, HR Business Partners, and external vendors to deliver seamless payroll services and meet service-level standards. Maintain and update payroll documentation and procedures to ensure audit readiness and compliance with internal controls. Stay ahead of legislative changes impacting payroll and implement necessary updates to processes and systems.