Payroll, Pensions & Finance Transformation Specialist

Payroll, Pensions & Finance Transformation Specialist

We are looking to hire a suitable candidate to join our public sector client on a temporary 6-month full time contract, with a possibility of extension for a total duration of 18months, based In Ballina Co. Mayo with a hybrid model.

Job Summary: 

To provide operational leadership and hands-on delivery across payroll and pensions administration within a public service environment, while also leading financial payroll systems and process improvement initiatives. This will also include wider Finance system and process improvement and implementation initiatives as required. 

The role combines day-to-day payroll and pension oversight with responsibility for implementing structural change, including payroll and finance systems enhancements, procurement/tender processes, and governance improvements.

Key elements of the job/duties and responsibilities: 

·        Payroll Operations & Controls

·        Review and strengthen payroll controls and reconciliations, including implementing process improvements

·        Support audit queries (internal/external) for both payroll and the wider finance function

·        Resolve complex payroll queries and escalations, as well as reviewing processes and procedures to identify improvements that could be introduced in this area. 

·        Ensure robust documentation of payroll procedures

·        If required, assist with end-to-end payroll processing (weekly/fortnightly as applicable)

Payroll Process Improvement Programme

·        Lead payroll process mapping (as-is / to-be) including a strategic review of the management of payroll in-house or through an outsourced model

·        Identify control gaps, inefficiencies and manual workarounds

·        Design and implement improved workflows and approval structures

·        Improve integration between payroll, HR and finance systems

·        Develop KPIs and performance reporting for payroll function

·        Support change management and stakeholder engagement

Pensions Administration and Oversight

·        Review pension administration processes, controls and systems, including accuracy of calculations

·        Implement system improvements to strengthen the efficiency, consistency and accuracy of pension calculations and returns

·        Ensure reconciliation between payroll and pension workings

·        Improve process and governance documentation (roles, responsibilities, approvals)

·        Support compliance with regulatory and audit requirements

·        Review and strengthen pension processes, governance and documentation.

Wider Finance Change Scope

The contractor will also provide broader finance transformation support, including:

·        Financial process standardisation and documentation

·        Assisting in month end reconciliations and payroll run checks, including preparation of tax returns. 

·        Lead system upgrades, migrations, or new system implementations.

·        Supporting system enhancements, including transition to the Cloud and support with continued system improvement programme

·        Embedding stronger financial governance practices

·        Supporting Board/Committee reporting improvements where required

·        Any other Finance related duties that may be assigned from time to time

Essential Requirements:

·        Significant experience in public service payroll and pension administration

·        Strong working knowledge of public sector pension schemes

·        Strong understanding of payroll controls and compliance

·        Strong stakeholder management skills

·        Experience working in change or transformation environments, particularly in relation to Finance systems and procedures

·        Experience running public procurement/tender processes and evaluations.

·        Experience leading payroll process improvement initiatives

·        Strong understanding of financial controls and governance requirements.

·        Experience preparing materials for senior management and board-level oversight.

·        Ability to operate both strategically and operationally

Desirable.

·        Relevant professional qualification (e.g. ACA, ACCA, CIMA, IPASS or equivalent).

·        Experience working with public financial reporting frameworks.

·        Experience in audit or regulated environments.

·        Knowledge of public service pay agreements and circulars.

For more information, please email [email protected]