MARS Recruitment is seeking an experienced Payroll Manager to join a large organisation on a fixed term contract through to March 2027, with potential for extension.

In this leadership role, you will oversee a team of three and take responsibility for the end-to-end payroll function for just over 600 employees. You will manage two fortnightly payroll, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timeliness across all payroll activities.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage the end-to-end payroll function across two fortnightly pay cycles
• Supervise, support and develop a team of three payroll professionals
• Ensure accurate processing of payroll, including variations, allowances, leave and back pay
• Manage statutory obligations including payroll tax, superannuation, ATO and ABS reporting
• Lead year-end processes including reconciliations and compliance reporting
• Act as escalation point for complex payroll queries and provide expert advice
• Maintain payroll data integrity for reporting, audits and compliance
• Drive continuous improvement across payroll systems and processes
• Partner with HR, Finance and leadership stakeholders on reporting and workforce planning

About you

• Proven experience in end-to-end payroll within a large or complex organisation
• Experience leading and developing a payroll team
• Strong understanding of payroll legislation, tax, superannuation and enterprise agreements
• Experience managing complex payroll environments and high-volume processing
• Strong Excel skills (formulas, VLOOKUPs, data analysis)
• Experience with payroll systems such as Preceda or Dayforce (highly regarded)
• Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver accurate, compliant outcomes

What's on offer

• Leadership role within a stable and supportive environment
• Exposure to a major payroll system transformation project
• Opportunity to influence payroll process improvement and efficiency
• Fixed term contract through to March 2027 with potential extension
• Hybrid working

If you're an experienced Payroll Manager looking for your next leadership opportunity, we'd love to hear from you - apply now via SEEK.