THE ROLE
You will act as the second-in-command to the Payroll Manager, ensuring the smooth execution of payroll operations while maintaining strict compliance with statutory and organisational requirements.
Key responsibilities include
Payroll Processing & Control
Overseeing and verifying the full payroll process for both salaried and wage employees
Ensuring all payroll inputs, earnings, and deductions are accurate and authorised
Managing employee lifecycle changes, including new hires, terminations, transfers, and promotions
Ensuring correct processing of CTC structures, fringe benefits, and allowances
Monitoring payroll timelines and ensuring all deadlines are met
Compliance & Statutory Reporting
Managing SARS submissions, including EMP201 and EMP501 reconciliations
Overseeing IRP5 generation and distribution
Ensuring compliance with all statutory, tax, and regulatory requirements
Maintaining audit-ready payroll records and documentation
Benefits & Third-Party Administration
Managing medical aid and provident fund reconciliations and submissions
Ensuring accurate processing of third-party payments (e.g. garnishees, unions, statutory contributions)
Coordinating submission schedules and ensuring timely payments
Maintaining accuracy of employee benefits and deductions
Reconciliation & Reporting
Performing payroll reconciliations and supporting general ledger integration
Assisting with monthly reporting, including cost and provision reports
Supporting audits and ensuring compliance with financial reporting requirements
Identifying and resolving discrepancies within payroll data
Team Support & Supervision
Supervising payroll staff in the absence of the Payroll Manager
Providing guidance, support, and oversight to the payroll team
Ensuring adherence to payroll policies, processes, and standards
Systems, Documentation & Continuous Improvement
Maintaining payroll systems and ensuring data integrity (VIP/Sage or similar)
Managing employee self-service processes (e.g. payslip distribution)
Updating and maintaining payroll documentation and procedures
Driving process improvements and operational efficiencies
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
Key requirements
Grade 12 (essential)
Payroll-related qualification
Minimum 10 years' experience in a large-scale payroll environment
At least 5 years' experience in a senior payroll role
Experience managing both weekly wages and monthly payroll
Strong experience with payroll systems (VIP ESSENTIAL)
Proven expertise in payroll reconciliations and reporting
Strong understanding of payroll compliance and legislation
Advantageous:
VIP Payroll certification