Senior HR Officer - Payroll

Job Purpose

The Senior HR Officer - Payroll is responsible for overseeing and executing the payroll processes within the central HR function. This role involves ensuring the accurate and timely processing of payroll, maintaining compliance with UAE labor laws and regulations, and managing payroll records. The Senior HR Officer will also support process improvements and provide guidance on payroll-related matters.

Job Responsibilities

Payroll Management:

• Execute the end-to-end payroll process, ensuring accuracy and adherence to company policies and UAE labor laws.
• Calculate and process salaries, wages, bonuses, and other compensations for all employee categories, including full-time, part-time, contractors, and expatriates.
• Prepare and manage payroll schedules to ensure timely disbursement of payments.

Compliance and Documentation:

• Ensure payroll activities comply with all relevant UAE labor laws and regulations, including gratuity calculations, leave encashment, and other statutory requirements.
• Prepare and submit payroll reports, including monthly, quarterly, and annual reports, to relevant authorities.
• Manage year-end reports, including service delivery, SLAs and issuance of salary certificates and end-of-service benefits (EOSB) calculations.
• Payroll Systems and Process Improvement:
• Maintain and update payroll systems, ensuring the accuracy and security of payroll data in compliance with UAE data protection laws.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and assist in the implementation of enhancements to payroll systems and processes.
• Collaborate with IT and finance teams to ensure seamless integration and functionality of payroll systems.

Employee Relations and Support:

• Act as a key point of contact for payroll-related inquiries from employees and management, providing clear and accurate information.
• Address and resolve any payroll discrepancies or issues in a timely and professional manner.
• Provide guidance on payroll policies, deductions, benefits, and other related topics.

Team Collaboration and Support:

• Work closely with HR, finance, and other departments to ensure efficient and accurate payroll operations.
• Support the training and development of junior payroll staff, providing guidance and assistance as needed.
• Participate in cross-functional projects and initiatives related to payroll and HR services.

Record Keeping and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate payroll records and ensure proper documentation is kept in compliance with UAE labor laws and company policies.
• Develop and maintain payroll policies and procedures, ensuring they are up-to-date and communicated effectively to all relevant stakeholders.

Job Requirements

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, HR, or a related field.
• CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) or equivalent certification is preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in payroll processing and management, with at least 2 years in a leadership or supervisory role within the UAE.

Technical Skills:

• Proficient in payroll software and systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, local UAE payroll systems) and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong understanding of UAE payroll regulations and labor laws.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities, with a focus on customer service and team collaboration.
• Fluency in English and Arabic (advantageous)
• Candidates must be currently based in the UAE.