Payroll Manager

Company and Job Description:
Are you a seasoned payroll professional ready to lead a high-performing team in a fast-paced, multi-entity environment? A leading organisation in the automotive sector is seeking an exceptional Payroll Manager to oversee the full payroll function for more than 4,000 employees across 40+ business units.

This role is perfect for a strategic, detail-driven leader who thrives under pressure, values accuracy, and excels in managing people, processes, and compliance.

The Payroll Manager is responsible for end-to-end payroll management, ensuring accurate, compliant, and timely compensation while upholding legislative requirements and strong internal controls.
You will lead a skilled payroll team, collaborate with Finance and HR, and drive the continuous improvement of payroll systems, controls, and processes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee full payroll operations for 4,000+ employees across multiple entities
• Develop and maintain payroll policies, procedures, and compliance frameworks
• Ensure accurate payroll processing (weekly, monthly) and correct application of pay rates, taxes, benefits, and deductions
• Prepare payroll-related GL entries, journals, reconciliations, and financial reports
• Perform variance analyses and manage discrepancy investigations
• Handle statutory filings and compliance (EMP201, biannual SARS submissions, WCA return of earnings, UIF, SDL, COIDA, etc.)
• Manage provident fund updates, RFI linking, company vehicle and petrol tax compliance
• Ensure accurate onboarding/offboarding, earnings setup, and ESS utilisation
• Lead and mentor payroll teams, driving efficiency and innovation
• Oversee bank payment loading, salary approvals via Salesforce, and journal posting
• Support internal and external audits with documentation and process explanations
• Ensure successful payroll setup for new entities and all related statutory registrations
• Deliver statistical, financial, and operational reports to HR, Finance, and regulatory bodies
• Champion automation, AI-driven efficiencies, and continuous improvement

Job Experience and Skills Required:
Bachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or equivalent
10+ years end-to-end payroll experience, including management or supervisory roles
Strong knowledge of payroll legislation (SARS, UIF, SDL, BCEA, MIBCO/PSIRA)
Proficiency in Sage 300 and advanced Microsoft Excel
Exceptional analytical ability, accuracy, and financial acumen
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Ability to manage strict deadlines and multiple priorities
Willingness to visit multiple client branches when required

Apply now!