Payroll Operations Lead

• We are seeking a detail-driven and operationally strong Payroll Specialist to support payroll execution across a multi-site hospitality environment. This role requires a hands-on individual who can manage complex payroll inputs, ensure legislative compliance, provide mentorship to team members, and maintain strong financial discipline.

Key Responsibilities:

• Validate and reconcile payroll inputs including hours worked, overtime, leave, allowances, and deductions
• Ensure payroll compliance with applicable legislation (BCEA, tax, UIF, SDL)
• Perform payroll reconciliations
• Process payroll account on accounting system to trial balance level, ensuring alignment with Finance & budgets
• Process payroll-related journals and support general ledger integration
• Execute end-to-end payroll processing across multiple entities and pay points using Sage 300
• Mentor and support junior payroll team members, driving accuracy and consistency
• Manage payroll audits, reconciliations, and month-end reporting
• Support operational teams with payroll-related queries and guidance
• Maintain accurate employee records and payroll data integrity
• Process terminations, final payments, and statutory submissions
• Liaise with Finance on salary schedules, reconciliations, and approvals
• Assist with annual processes including tax year-end (EMP501) and audits
• Identify process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce risk

Minimum Requirements:

• Relevant qualification in Payroll, Finance/Bookkeeping, Human Resources,
• Minimum 5 years’ payroll experience in a multi-site or high-volume environment
• Hands-on experience with Sage 300 is essential
• Proven experience with payroll reconciliations up to trial balance level
• Strong knowledge of South African payroll legislation, SARS legislation and statutory requirements
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong reconciliation, numerical, and analytical skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks effectively and complete tasks promptly and efficiently
• Experience in mentoring or guiding staff

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to engage with non-desk-based employees and operational managers
• Willingness to support peak payroll periods and critical deadlines
• Strong Excel and reporting capability

Key Competencies & Personal Attributes:

• Accuracy and attention to detail
• Leadership and team development capability
• Strong organisational and time management skills
• Problem-solving and analytical thinking
• Confidentiality and professionalism
• Effective stakeholder engagement