Payroll Manager

The Payroll Manager leads the end to end payroll function for multiple entities, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and operational excellence across both salaried and hourly based contracting payrolls. This role requires advanced knowledge of Sage 300, South African statutory requirements, year end processes, and strong leadership capabilities to support a multi entity business environment. This role reports into the Finance Manager. Key Responsibilities Multi Entity & Multi Payroll Leadership Manage full monthly payroll across multiple legal entities within the organisation using Sage People / 300. Oversee both salaried and hourly contracting payroll, including variable hours, timesheets, overtime, project billing, and rate changes. Ensure accurate processing of incentives, consultant payments, and flexible pay structures. Statutory Compliance & Year-End Expertise Ensure end to end compliance with SARS requirements, including: PAYE, UIF, SDL Monthly EMP201 submissions Bi annual EMP501 reconciliations IRP5/IT3(a) certificate generation and reconciliation Oversee COIDA submissions, Return of Earnings (ROE), and related compliance requirements. Ensure adherence to BCEA, LRA, EEA, and all payroll related labour legislation. Ensure timely submission of information to STATSSA Systems Management (Sage & ESS) Lead configuration, optimisation, and maintenance of Sage Payroll for multi entity structures. Manage and support the Employee Self-Service (ESS) platform including workflows, leave management, payslip distribution, and approval structures. Oversee system upgrades, testing, and data integrity controls. Financial Controls & Reporting Manage complex GL mapping, payroll journals, and monthly reconciliations across multiple entities. Partner with Finance to support budgeting, forecasting, and payroll cost analysis. Prepare executive-level payroll reports, insights, and compliance dashboards. Ensure timely submission of salary and statutory payments on the banking platform. Governance, Risk & Audit Maintain strong internal controls across all payroll processes. Lead internal and external payroll audits. Ensure accurate documentation, audit trails, and policy alignment. Ensure compliance to group internal controls People Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement Lead, develop, and mentor the payroll team. Partner with HR on onboarding, terminations, reward cycles, and policy changes. Provide expert advice to senior leadership on payroll risks, compliance, and best practices. Build strong relationships with multiple business units, contractors, and consultants. Qualifications and Experience Degree/Diploma in HR, Finance, Payroll, or related field. 8 years experience in payroll, including senior-level or management roles. Experience in multi entity payroll environments. Previous experience in managing a payroll team Strong expertise in: Sage Payroll Hourly contracting payroll SARS statutory submissions IRP5/IT3(a) reconciliation COIDA / Compensation Fund ESS platforms Advanced Excel skills. Skills & Competencies Deep knowledge of South African tax, labour, and payroll legislation. Strong analytical skills and financial acumen. High attention to detail and accuracy. Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills. Ability to work under pressure and manage complex deadlines. Strong governance and audit awareness. Behavioural Traits High integrity and confidentiality. Proactive, solutions driven, and organised. Strong leadership and team development capability. Resilient and able to manage complexity. Please Note: As all iqbusiness roles require honesty in the handling of or access to cash, finances, financial systems, or confidential information; our recruitment process requires that the following background checks be completed: credit, criminal, ID, and qualification verification. iqbusiness is committed to sustainable growth and transformation, we embrace diversity and employ previously disadvantaged individuals