Payroll Specialist

EMEA & UK Payroll Specialist

Location: Reading, Flexible / Hybrid

Role Type: Full-Time, Contract

Pay Rate: £41,000 per year

Are you a detail-driven payroll professional with strong expertise in UK and EMEA end-to-end payroll operations? We are seeking an experienced EMEA & UK Payroll Specialist to manage accurate, timely, and compliant monthly payroll cycles while acting as a trusted key contact for internal HR, Finance, and employee communities.

If you thrive in high-performing, fast-paced environments, possess advanced Excel skills, and have a proven track record navigating complex enterprise ERP environments, this is an outstanding opportunity to drive operational excellence across multi-country payrolls.

• End-to-End Payroll Management: Process and validate end-to-end monthly UK and assigned EMEA payroll cycles, ensuring absolute compliance with local tax laws and statutory regulations.

• Data & Calculations: Review and reconcile payroll inputs, statutory payments, benefits, pension deductions, and General Ledger interfaces.

• Reporting & Audits: Support month-end/year-end closing, statutory filings, and audit readiness (SOX controls), collaborating with both internal and external auditors.

• Problem Solving & Systems: Resolve payroll discrepancies and queries promptly, while participating in continuous enterprise system testing for legislative updates.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Partner closely with HR, Finance, external vendor providers, and employees to deliver seamless payroll service delivery.

• Core Experience: 2-5+ years of hands-on experience processing UK and EMEA payrolls within complex, enterprise-scale organizations.

• Technical Proficiency: Experience using major enterprise ERP systems (e.g., modern cloud-based HCM/Payroll platforms) alongside advanced Excel capabilities (PivotTables, XLOOKUP/VLOOKUP).

• Legislative Expertise: Solid, up-to-date knowledge of UK payroll taxation, statutory requirements, pensions, and compliance framework.

• Analytical Mindset: High attention to detail, structured problem-solving skills, and comfort managing high volumes within tight deadlines.

• Certifications (Desirable): CIPP (UK) or equivalent regional payroll qualification; degree in Finance, HR, or Business.

• Competitive Pay: Outstanding £44.00/hr contract rate.

• High-Impact Work: Play a pivotal role in maintaining flawless multi-region payroll operations and supporting regional business growth.

If you have the technical expertise and passion for precision, we would love to hear from you. Submit your updated CV today to be considered!

Randstad Business Support is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.