Associate Director - Payroll FAAS

Department Overview and Job Summary

The Grant Thornton Financial Advisory and Accounting Services (FAAS) team specialises in servicing complex multinational corporations, acting as the central point for their global compliance and reporting needs. Operating from our Irish Centre of Excellence, we provide global payroll solutions, business process outsourcing, and flexible people solutions through a network of experienced professionals. The Global Payroll Solutions team delivers payroll services to clients worldwide.

This position is ideal for a driven and experienced payroll expert eager to broaden their expertise in global payroll management.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate client payroll processing using the Payzaar global payroll platform in collaboration with other Grant Thornton member firms.
• Manage and resolve payroll-related issues by liaising within the Grant Thornton international network to find and implement solutions.
• Support clients during short-term projects, payroll audits, and resource shortages.
• Lead client onboarding and payroll transition projects from existing providers to Grant Thornton’s payroll services.
• Oversee projects aimed at enhancing service delivery through automation and process improvements.
• Provide comprehensive client payroll support both onsite and remotely, including domestic and international payroll management.
• Recruit, mentor, and train junior team members.
• Monitor and enforce adherence to service level agreements and key performance indicators (KPIs) for client payroll services.
• Manage billing processes and client onboarding administration.
• Lead responses to requests for proposals (RFPs) and client proposals.
• Validate and approve payments to various recipients.
• Allocate and manage team resources to support client requirements effectively.
• Stay informed about industry trends and developments.

Required Qualifications and Attributes

• Possession of a payroll qualification such as IPASS or an equivalent industry certification.
• Proven experience in payroll roles with a commitment to advancing a career in international payroll.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, with advanced Excel capabilities.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Experience handling multiple deadlines and delivering under pressure.
• Strong sense of confidentiality and responsibility.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to manage customer relationships effectively.
• Quick learner who keeps updated with industry knowledge.
• Demonstrated problem-solving aptitude.
• Highly organised and efficient work habits.
• Good interpersonal skills and experience managing people.
• Competent in stakeholder management, including communication and influencing skills.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience working with international and high-volume payrolls.
• Knowledge of entire payroll processes including benefits, share-based remuneration, statutory compliance, and payroll accounting entries.
• Involvement in automation initiatives related to payroll services.
• Recruitment experience within payroll teams.
• Background in global payroll delivery models.
• Familiarity with the Payzaar platform is advantageous.

About Grant Thornton Ireland

Grant Thornton Ireland is a growing firm of nearly 3,000 professionals across nine offices encompassing Ireland, Isle of Man, Gibraltar, and Bermuda. As part of a global network with 73,000 people in 149 countries, we provide local insight, national proficiency, and worldwide reach to assist our clients wherever they operate.

Our approach involves acting as trusted advisors, blending local expertise with a global perspective to empower clients in making sound decisions for their present and future needs. We partner with a diverse range of sectors, supporting community development, financial regulation, and business growth.

Career and Workplace Culture

At Grant Thornton, we promote a collaborative, inclusive culture that supports flexibility, personal growth, and the authentic contribution of every employee. We take pride in cultivating an environment where diversity of thought and experience drives superior results and innovation.

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

We strive for equitable opportunities and embrace diversity across our workforce. Our values center on integrity and authenticity, encouraging everyone to bring their whole selves to work. We recognize that diverse perspectives enhance decision-making and service quality, and we actively cultivate this ethos.

Rewards and Recognition

Our benefits are designed to foster well-being and professional success. We have a recognition program "Shout Out" to celebrate outstanding achievements, milestones, and contributions among our teams.