Payroll Manager at Adams & Adams

ROLE REQUIREMENTS:

South African Payroll Legislation (PAYE, UIF, SDL, BCEA, SARS)

• Ensure accurate calculation and deduction of PAYE, UIF, and SDL
• Prepare and submit EMP201 and EMP501 reconciliations to SARS timeously
• Monitor legislative changes and update payroll policies accordingly
• Advise partners and HR on compliance with BCEA and tax regulations
• Liaise with auditors and regulators during payroll audits

Attention to Detail and Accuracy

• Validate payroll inputs (timesheets, allowances, deductions) before processing
• Conduct monthly reconciliations between payroll reports and financial ledgers
• Double-check partner remuneration structures for accuracy
• Identify and correct discrepancies in employee records
• Maintain precise documentation for audit and compliance purposes

Analytical and Problem-solving Skills

• Investigate payroll variances and resolve discrepancies
• Analyze payroll trends (e.g. overtime costs, benefit utilization)
• Provide insights to management on cost-saving opportunities
• Develop solutions for complex partner compensation structures
• Optimize payroll workflows to reduce manual errors

Confidentiality and Integrity

• Restrict access to payroll systems to authorized personnel only
• Implement secure data storage and encryption protocols
• Handle partner and employee salary queries with discretion
• Train payroll employees on confidentiality policies
• Ensure compliance with POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act)

Payroll Software & HRIS Systems

• Configure and maintain payroll software settings for accuracy
• Generate reports for HR, Finance, and management decision-making
• Integrate payroll systems with HRIS for seamless data flow
• Troubleshoot system errors and liaise with vendors for support
• Train staff on system functionality and updates

Managing Multiple Priorities Under Tight Deadlines 

• Coordinate payroll cycles with HR and Finance to meet cut-off dates
• Balance statutory submissions, partner payments, and employee queries simultaneously
• Develop contingency plans for system downtime or error
• Prioritize urgent payroll issues without compromising accuracy
• Lead payroll team to deliver under pressure during audits or year-end reconciliations

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:   

• Bachelor's degree or Diploma in Finance, Accounting, Human Resources, or related field
• 5 – 7 years payroll management experience, preferably in professional services or legal industry
• In-depth knowledge of South African labour and tax legislation
• Experience managing payroll for large employee bases (500+)
• Advanced Excel skills and familiarity with payroll systems (e.g., Sage, SAP, Oracle, or similar)