Assistant Vice President - Global Payroll Leader

Job Description :

We are looking for a seasoned Global Payroll Leader to drive end-to-end payroll service delivery across APAC and Europe, while overseeing US payroll tax compliance. This is a high-impact leadership role requiring a blend of operational excellence, client advisory, and transformation leadership.

You will act as a strategic partner to global stakeholders, lead large-scale payroll operations from the Chennai hub, and drive modernization, automation, and compliance excellence across

geographies.

Key Responsibilities :

Global Payroll Leadership :

- Own end-to-end payroll delivery (pre, core, post payroll) across multiple countries

- Manage SLAs, KPIs, and service quality metrics

- Ensure standardization with local statutory compliance

Client & Stakeholder Management (Critical) :

- Act as the single point of contact for global payroll leadership

- Build strong relationships with HR, Finance, and Business leaders

- Lead governance calls, QBRs, and executive discussions

- Provide insights, dashboards, and strategic recommendations

Transformation & Strategy :

- Drive global payroll transformation initiatives

- Lead system implementations, migrations, and automation programs

- Identify opportunities for process optimization and digital innovation

Compliance & Tax Oversight :

- Ensure compliance with APAC & Europe payroll regulations

- Oversee US payroll tax (W-2, federal/state/local taxes)

- Partner with Tax & Legal teams to mitigate risks

Payroll Accounting & Controls :

- Oversee payroll accounting, GL reconciliation, accruals

- Support month-end and year-end financial closing

- Ensure audit readiness and financial accuracy

Governance & Risk :

- Implement robust governance frameworks and controls

- Ensure compliance with statutory laws and data privacy (GDPR)

- Lead internal/external audits with zero non-compliance

Global Delivery Leadership :

- Lead and scale a high-performing Chennai-based payroll team

- Manage regional leads across APAC & Europe

- Drive talent development, succession planning, and workforce optimization

Continuous Improvement :

- Foster a culture of innovation and operational excellence

- Implement automation, analytics, and AI-driven payroll solutions

- Benchmark with industry best practices

Ideal Candidate Profile :

Must-Have Experience :

- 15+ years in Global Payroll Operations, with leadership experience

- Proven expertise in managing multi-country payroll (APAC & Europe)

- Strong exposure to US Payroll Tax & Compliance (W-2, federal/state)

- Experience in shared services / GBS / global delivery environments

- Demonstrated success in client-facing roles and stakeholder management

- Hands-on experience in payroll transformation, automation, and system implementations

Functional Expertise :

Deep knowledge of :

- Global payroll processes (end-to-end)

- Statutory compliance across regions

- Payroll accounting & financial controls

- Familiarity with payroll platforms (e.g., ADP, Workday, SAP, Oracle)

Leadership Skills :

- Strong people leadership with experience managing large teams

- Ability to influence senior stakeholders and drive change

- Strategic thinker with execution excellence

Education :

- Bachelors degree in Finance, HR, or related field

- MBA / CA / CPA / CMA or equivalent preferred