Payroll, People Data and Remuneration Lead

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and focused professional to join our People Team as the Payroll, People Data and Remuneration Lead. This leadership position encompasses directing the payroll operations, contributing to the design and execution of our remuneration strategy, and enhancing the use of employment data to improve decision-making processes.

The role is particularly exciting at this time as we near the completion of selecting a new Human Resources Information System (HRIS). The appointed individual will be pivotal in shaping the system’s implementation and defining future workflows related to people data, payroll, and reporting.

The successful candidate will join a supportive and well-established leadership team, known for fostering energy, humor, and genuine mutual support.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support the payroll and data specialist team while promoting continuous improvement and professional growth.
• Ensure accurate and timely processing of payroll, managing both fortnightly and monthly payroll for over 650 employees.
• Oversee the remuneration framework, including conducting annual salary reviews, managing employee benefits, and supporting job evaluations.
• Analyze and interpret workforce data to provide insights that enhance planning, reporting, and strategic decisions.
• Play a direct role in the rollout and adaptation of the new HRIS system.
• Enhance data accuracy, reporting capabilities, and streamline end-to-end people processes.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will be a seasoned leader in payroll, remuneration, or people data, combining detailed knowledge with strategic capability. A solid understanding of New Zealand employment and payroll legislation is essential, alongside familiarity with remuneration frameworks and converting data into actionable insights.

Experience with HRIS implementations, process optimization, or data analytics will be highly regarded. Effective leadership skills, clear communication abilities, and a capacity to guide teams through change are crucial.

• Demonstrated success in leading teams towards organisational goals within a values-driven culture.
• Strong skills in data analysis and problem-solving.
• Proficiency in advanced Excel and quantitative data examination.
• Capability to preserve confidentiality and exercise careful discretion.
• Keen attention to detail and accuracy in all tasks.
• Knowledgeable about compensation structures and remuneration concepts.
• Experience working with both Individual and Collective Employment Agreements.

Benefits and Workplace Culture

• Flexible working options supporting a healthy work-life balance.
• Opportunities for career coaching and personal development.
• Life insurance coverage.
• Leave allowances including wellbeing leave, volunteer leave, three additional paid leave days, and two weeks’ paid partner leave.
• Immediate eligibility for sick leave.
• Continued employer KiwiSaver contributions during periods of suspended contributions.
• Access to discounts at local and national businesses.

About Our Organisation

Located in Rolleston, Canterbury, Selwyn District Council serves one of New Zealand's rapidly expanding regions. Our community-centric approach focuses on delivering services and facilities that foster thriving, sustainable communities amidst an exceptional quality of life and economic growth.

Our office location offers an attractive lifestyle with proximity to Christchurch, recreational amenities such as ski fields, rivers, and scenic hills of Canterbury.

Values

• Be a good human.
• Be brave - think differently.
• Better together - make it happen for Selwyn.

We respect the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and commit to working collaboratively with our Treaty partner to meet our obligations.

Invitation

If you are excited to lead a significant portfolio and influence the future of our people systems through major HRIS system implementation, we encourage you to apply.