EMEA Payroll Specialist

EMEA Payroll Specialist (Hybrid, Italian Speaking Preferred)

Location: Hybrid – 2 days on-site in Manchester 
Rate: up to £192 per hour Inside IR35
Duration: Running until October 2025
Job Summary:
We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented EMEA Payroll Specialist to join our HR Services team. This role will be responsible for managing accurate, timely payroll processing across multiple EMEA countries including Italy, Turkey, Hungary, Sweden, Denmark, and Israel. The ideal candidate brings strong payroll expertise, a deep understanding of regional compliance, and advanced Excel skills. Fluency in Italian is highly desirable.
Key Responsibilities:

• Coordinate and oversee payroll processing with third-party providers across designated EMEA countries
• Ensure compliance with local legislation and company policy for all payroll activities
• Manage payroll-related functions such as new hires, terminations, tax changes, deductions, and direct deposits
• Review and verify payroll data, ensuring accuracy in calculations including overtime and statutory contributions
• Act as a point of contact for payroll queries from employees and internal stakeholders
• Collaborate cross-functionally with HR, Finance, Tax, Legal, and external vendors
• Support audits and contribute to process improvements within the HR Services team
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of payroll legislation for responsible countries

Must-Have Skills:

• Proven EMEA payroll experience with strong legislative and compliance knowledge
• Excellent stakeholder communication and query management skills
• Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities
• Self-starter with a proactive mindset and ability to manage multiple payrolls simultaneously
• Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUPs)
• Experience working across multiple countries/regions
• Strong attention to detail and customer-oriented approach

Preferred:

• Fluency in Italian
• CIPP or equivalent qualification
• Six Sigma White Belt (required); Yellow Belt (preferred)

Experience:

• 5–10 years of advanced EMEA payroll experience