Head Of Payroll

Head of Payroll At EY, we're all in to shape your future with confidence. We'll help you succeed in a globally connected powerhouse of diverse teams and take your career wherever you want it to go. Join EY and help build a better working world.

The Opportunity As Head of Payroll you'll drive the operational excellence and strategic outlook of our payroll function across Australia, New Zealand and PNG. Reporting directly to the Finance Accounting and Controlling Director, you will lead a talented cross-border team and take full ownership of payroll operations for over 10,000 employees. The role goes far beyond day-to-day work – you'll be at the forefront of compliance, risk management, transformation and innovation in one of EY's most complex operational environments.

This is a full–time hybrid position that can be performed from any EY office across Australia or New Zealand. The role can be adjusted to work flexibly with reduced hours where appropriate.

Your Key Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end payroll operations across Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, ensuring accuracy, timeliness and full compliance with legislative, award and country-specific requirements while managing external vendors and payroll systems.

Manage and develop a high-performing cross-border payroll team (on-shore and off-shore), setting strategic goals, mentoring staff and driving continuous improvement through automation, digital tools and process enhancements.

Provide strategic leadership and governance by partnering with senior stakeholders across Finance, Talent, Operations and IT to align payroll with business needs, lead compliance and risk initiatives, and advise on payroll implications of organisational changes.

Monitor and interpret upcoming changes in payroll legislation across Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, assess operational and financial impact, and ensure timely adaptation of systems, processes and controls.

Skills and Attributes for Success

Strong strategic thinking and commercial acumen, aligning payroll operations to broader business goals and cost control.

Inclusive and resilient leadership style, capable of building high-performing cross-border teams and thriving in fast-paced, highly regulated environments.

Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with proven ability to influence senior leaders and collaborate across diverse internal functions.

Ideally you will also have

10+ years of payroll leadership experience in complex, multi-country environments with deep knowledge of legislation and compliance across Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.

Demonstrated success in leading payroll transformation, including system implementations, automation initiatives and continuous improvement projects.

Proven track record in managing external vendors and technology partners, ensuring SLA adherence and system integrity.

What We Offer You

Career development: Opportunities to shape your own career through future-focused skills and world-class experiences.

Flexible work arrangements: Policies that empower you to balance professional and personal life.

A comprehensive benefits package: Including wellness incentives, additional flex leave, family-friendly policies and gender-neutral paid parental leave.

Salary: Competitive and negotiable based on skills and experience.

Acknowledgement of Country EY acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which EY offices are located across Australia. We pay our respects to their cultures, Elders and all of their communities.

Apply Today

Are you ready to shape your future with confidence?

Apply now and join our diverse and inclusive culture of globally connected teams. We look forward to learning more about you.

Our preferred applicant will be required to undertake employment screening by EY or an external third-party provider.

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