Head of Payroll

Role Overview

The Head of Payroll is responsible for leading the complete payroll operations within the Finance department, ensuring all employee compensation is processed accurately, promptly, and in compliance with relevant labor and regulatory standards. This position involves managing the payroll team, maintaining payroll systems, and adhering to Saudi labor law, GOSI regulations, and internal company policies.

Core Responsibilities

• Manage and ensure timely, precise processing of monthly payroll, covering salaries, bonuses, overtime, and deductions for all staff.
• Guarantee compliance with regulatory frameworks such as GOSI, the Wage Protection System (Mudad), Saudi Labor Law, and directives from Zakat and tax authorities (ZATCA) where applicable.
• Administer end-of-service benefits, final settlements, and leave encashments in accordance with Saudi labor laws.
• Lead and guide the payroll team, upholding strict standards of accuracy and confidentiality.
• Perform reconciliation of payroll accounts with Finance records and align payroll with the general ledger during month-end closing.
• Maintain and update payroll systems like SAP, Oracle, Bayzat, or comparable HRIS/payroll software to enhance data integrity and operational efficiency.
• Generate payroll cost reports, budget forecasts, and variance analyses for senior financial leadership.
• Collaborate with HR on onboarding, terminations, promotions, and salary amendments to ensure payroll accuracy, while remaining functionally separate from HR operations.
• Address employee payroll questions and resolve any discrepancies swiftly.
• Keep abreast of updates in GOSI, tax legislation, and labor laws impacting payroll; ensure relevant system and process modifications are implemented.
• Oversee both internal and external payroll audits, ensuring thorough documentation, compliance with controls, and adequate segregation of duties.
• Champion initiatives to automate and improve payroll processes, aiming to increase efficiency and minimize errors.
• Safeguard payroll data quality and assist Finance in cost center allocation and payroll reporting.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in payroll management, including at least 3 years in a supervisory or leadership capacity specifically within Finance-driven payroll functions.
• In-depth understanding of Saudi Labor Law, GOSI provisions, WPS/Mudad framework, and Zakat and tax obligations.
• Expertise using payroll and ERP software such as SAP, Oracle, and Bayzat.
• Strong financial skills, especially payroll reconciliation against the general ledger.
• Excellent analytical abilities, organizational competencies, and leadership qualities.
• Exceptional attention to detail with a high standard of confidentiality.
• Proficiency in both Arabic and English.