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We are seeking a highly experienced, results-oriented Global Payroll Operations Lead. This is not a role for simply maintaining the status quo—it's a career-defining mandate to build, optimize, and define the future of global payroll operations at a fast-growing international tech company. As we scale toward our next milestone, our internal "operating system" must be frictionless. You won't just be managing payroll; you'll be engineering a best-in-class global function that supports our talent in 17+ countries, ensuring our journey is built on a foundation of operational excellence and a lasting legacy.
Job Responsibility:
Define the vision and roadmap across our global entities
Manage timely, accurate, and compliant payroll for our 4 main European entities plus smaller global countries via local vendors
Assess current vendor partnerships and workflows to improve, automate, and simplify our approach
Determine where globally consistent policies are helpful and where local nuances take precedence
Work closely with the accounting team to ensure GL and monthly reporting are accurate, streamlined, and high-signal
Create standardized, easy-to-use SOPs and process maps
Recommend and execute improvements to current systems to increase efficiency and automation
Actively monitor payroll KPIs measuring accuracy, risk, and data quality
Build mitigation strategies to ensure our operational engine never slows down
Requirements:
8+ years of hands-on experience managing multi-country payroll (e.g., France, Italy, Ireland, Germany, Portugal, UK, Finland)
Proven expertise in international jurisdictions, including benefits-in-kind and third-party payments
Demonstrable success in end-to-end process design and managing system/vendor migrations
Experience in a fast-paced tech environment or consultancy focused on global HR/Payroll transformation
Exceptional project management skills to deliver complex projects on time
Fluency in English is essential
Nice to have:
Experience with major global payroll providers (e.g., Papaya Global, CloudPay)
Experience with HRIS systems that feed payroll (e.g., HiBob)
A certification in payroll is a plus
What we offer:
Participate in Aiven’s equity plan
Balance work and life with our hybrid work policy
Choose the equipment you need to set yourself up for success
Use your Professional Development Plan budget for learning opportunities
Receive holistic wellbeing support through our global Employee Assistance Program
Inquire about our Global Time Off Commitment (Parental and Sick Leave, as well as Personal Time)
Enjoy country-specific benefits for our global cast