Payroll Team Leader

About the role

GHD is seeking an experienced Payroll Team Leader to oversee a team of Payroll Officers and ensure payroll across Australia is processed accurately, on time, and in line with all compliance requirements. Reporting to the Australia Payroll Manager, you will work closely with Payroll Analysts and play a key part in day-to-day payroll operations, legislative adherence, and ongoing process improvement.

This opportunity is well suited to a people-oriented payroll professional who enjoys working in a fast-moving, change-focused environment and is committed to creating a positive payroll experience for employees.

What you will do

• Lead, guide, and develop a team of Payroll Officers so payroll is delivered efficiently and accurately.
• Manage payroll end to end, ensuring calculations are correct and aligned with policies, laws, tax rules, superannuation requirements, and reporting obligations.
• Handle complex payroll matters, employee questions, and issues involving HR, Finance, and other departments.
• Track team workloads, organise priorities, and keep work on schedule to meet payroll deadlines and service levels.
• Advise the Australia Payroll Manager by spotting risks, control weaknesses, and opportunities to improve processes.
• Work with the Australia Payroll Manager on scalable improvements such as automation, system upgrades, and reconciliation tools.
• Coach, mentor, and support team members to build capability and confidence.
• Keep payroll procedures, standard operating procedures, and controls current and ready for audit, while supporting internal and external audit needs.
• Collaborate with payroll colleagues across global teams to share effective practices and contribute to wider payroll initiatives.
• Assist with change management linked to payroll transformation and process redesign.

What you should bring

• At least 7 years of payroll experience, including 2+ years in a supervisory or team lead position.
• Strong knowledge of Australian payroll legislation, awards, PAYG, superannuation, payroll tax, and Single Touch Payroll compliance.
• Demonstrated leadership ability to coach, mentor, and motivate a team working across different locations.
• Experience managing large payroll volumes and resolving complicated payroll queries.
• Excellent attention to detail, along with strong analytical and problem-solving ability.
• Hands-on experience with SAP or ADP GlobalView payroll systems.
• Exposure to payroll improvement initiatives or transformation projects is highly regarded.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence HR, Finance, and business leaders.
• Understanding of internal controls, governance, and audit processes.
• A resilient, adaptable approach and a mindset focused on continuous improvement.

Why join GHD

You will be part of a global payroll team that values collaboration, integrity, and innovation. The role offers the chance to help shape payroll operations in Australia while supporting stabilisation, transformation, and a strong team culture alongside skilled colleagues around the world.

Location and work style

This position can be based in any GHD office across Australia. GHD also supports hybrid working, balancing remote work with in-office collaboration to promote wellbeing, flexibility, and productivity.

Equal opportunity and application notes

GHD is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and from people of all identities. The company values diversity and inclusion and wants everyone to participate fully in the recruitment process.

Please note that agency resumes are not being accepted at this stage. Applications are invited by Thursday 30th July.

Who can apply

Experienced payroll professionals with team leadership experience, strong Australian payroll compliance knowledge, and a passion for improving processes and developing people are encouraged to apply.