Senior Payroll Compliance Specialist

About the role

This position sits within a complex payroll setting and is responsible for making sure employees are paid accurately, compliantly, and on schedule. You will use your advanced end-to-end payroll expertise and strong understanding of employment legislation and collective agreements to bring accuracy and confidence to a fast-moving environment.

Key responsibilities

• Handle intricate payroll questions and work through solutions that work for all parties involved.
• Carry out routine payroll audits and validation checks.
• Review payroll exceptions and process them within required timelines.
• Spot opportunities to improve processes and help implement better ways of working.
• Support leaders with payroll training, both face-to-face and through online delivery.
• Operate within an outsourced model for transactional payroll tasks.

About you

You are an experienced payroll professional with a strong background in complex end-to-end payroll operations. You understand payroll legislation well, particularly the Holidays Act, and are confident with manual calculations for overtime, prorated pay, leave rates, leave entitlements, and final pays. You value accuracy, take ownership of your work, and act early to prevent small issues becoming bigger problems.

As a senior team member, you will also guide and mentor others while building trusted, empathetic relationships and delivering excellent customer service. A continuous improvement mindset, with attention to compliance, controls, and process optimisation, is essential.

Location and working arrangement

The role is based in Wellington CBD and includes hybrid working, with two days working from home.

Benefits

• Special pricing on holiday home accommodation across New Zealand.
• Discounted health insurance options for you and your family.
• Retail discounts through partner businesses.
• Employee Assistance Programme support when needed.
• Additional employee benefits.

Application and compliance notes

The closing date for applications is Wednesday 22 July 2026. Applicants should apply through the company’s online portal. For a confidential conversation or further information, the listed Talent Partner can be contacted directly by email.

Successful candidates must provide proof that they are eligible to work in New Zealand and will be subject to security and reference checks. Some roles may also require a credit check and/or a drug test. Agency submissions will not be considered unless previously approved.

The organisation describes itself as mission-driven, technology-enabled, and focused on delivering for New Zealand. It also highlights its commitment to inclusion and its support of Pride Pledge.