The Payroll Manager oversees the accurate and timely processing of payroll, ensures compliance with South African labor and tax laws, and implements payroll best practices. This role requires expertise in payroll systems, tax regulations, and employee benefits administration while leveraging technology to streamline payroll operations. Key Responsibilities
1. Payroll Processing & Administration

• Manage end-to-end payroll processing for employees (salaries, bonuses, deductions).
• Ensure accurate calculation of overtime, leave pay, and shift allowances.
• Process termination payments (retrenchments, resignations) in compliance with labor laws.

2. Tax & Statutory Compliance

• Ensure PAYE, UIF, SDL, and EMP501 submissions are SARS-compliant.
• Reconcile monthly and annual tax returns (IRP5, IT3(a)).
• Stay updated on changes to tax laws, BCEA (Basic Conditions of Employment Act), and LRA (Labour Relations Act).

3. Employee Benefits & Deductions

• Administer medical aid, pension/provident funds, and garnishee orders.
• Liaise with benefit providers (Discovery, Momentum, Old Mutual).
• Ensure accurate B-BBEE reporting for payroll-related elements.

4. Payroll Systems & Technology

• Oversee payroll software (Sage VIP, Pastel Payroll, SAP SuccessFactors).
• Automate payroll processes using RPA (Robotic Process Automation).
• Implement biometric/clocking systems for attendance tracking.

5. Reporting & Audits

• Generate monthly payroll reports for finance and HR teams.
• Prepare for internal and external payroll audits.
• Analyze payroll variances and resolve discrepancies.

6. Stakeholder Management

• Train HR and line managers on payroll policies.
• Address employee payroll queries and disputes.
• Collaborate with finance teams for GL reconciliations.

7. Process Improvement

• Develop payroll SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures).
• Optimize payroll workflows to reduce errors and processing time.
• Stay informed about global payroll trends and digital transformation.

Required Skills & Competencies
Technical Skills
✅ Payroll Software: Sage VIP, Pastel Payroll, SAP SuccessFactors
✅ Tax Compliance: PAYE, UIF, SDL, EMP501, IRP5
✅ Labor Laws: BCEA, LRA, Employment Equity Act
✅ Data Analysis: Advanced Excel (VLOOKUP, PivotTables), Power BI
✅ HRIS Integration: Workday, Oracle HCM, PeopleSoft
Soft Skills
✔ Attention to Detail – Ensuring 100% payroll accuracy
✔ Problem-Solving – Resolving payroll discrepancies
✔ Communication – Explaining complex payroll concepts clearly
✔ Confidentiality – Handling sensitive employee data Qualifications & Certifications
Mandatory:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or HR Management (BCom, BTech).
• 5+ years of payroll management experience in South Africa.

Preferred:

• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) – SAAA (South African Accounting Association).
• SAIPA/SAICA
• SARS eFiling certification.