Workday Payroll Specialist
Permanent | London
A leading global organisation is seeking a Workday Payroll Specialist to join its People Systems team. This position plays a key role in ensuring the accuracy, compliance and efficiency of payroll operations across multiple markets through the effective use of Workday.
In this role, you will configure, maintain and enhance the organisation’s Workday Payroll environment, supporting all stages of the payroll lifecycle. This includes system updates, regulatory compliance and continuous process improvement. You will collaborate closely with stakeholders across HR, Finance, Payroll Operations, IT and other business functions to deliver seamless and compliant payroll solutions.
The organisation values diverse perspectives and is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can succeed.
Key Responsibilities
-
Configure, maintain and optimise Workday Payroll functionality to ensure accuracy, scalability and alignment with business needs
-
Partner with HR and Finance to gather requirements and deliver effective, compliant payroll solutions
-
Ensure adherence to country-specific payroll regulations, including tax, reporting and audit requirements
-
Provide expertise in payroll processing, testing, troubleshooting and system enhancements or upgrades
-
Collaborate on Workday HCM initiatives, particularly payroll integrations and downstream system impacts
-
Support related areas such as Compensation, Time Tracking and Absence Management through cross-functional project work
-
Maintain clear documentation of configuration decisions, business processes and change management activities
-
Resolve complex configuration and functional issues within agreed service levels
-
Contribute to processes that safeguard data integrity, security and compliance with IT General Controls frameworks
-
Deliver user training on Workday payroll functionality and engage effectively with business stakeholders
-
Continuously improve team practices through open and constructive collaboration
About You
-
At least 5 years of advanced, hands-on Workday Payroll configuration experience
-
Strong knowledge of Workday Core HCM; experience in Compensation or Time & Absence Management is advantageous
-
In-depth understanding of payroll compliance, gross-to-net calculations and payroll reporting
-
Proficiency in developing advanced Workday reports, including Calculated Fields, and experience using EIBs
-
Familiarity with SOX, IT General Controls, GDPR and relevant audit frameworks
-
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with high attention to detail and data accuracy
-
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while remaining organised and adaptable
-
Demonstrated success in building collaborative relationships and communicating effectively across HR, Payroll, Accounting and Audit teams
-
A collaborative mindset with the ability to contribute to both operational excellence and HR systems strategy
-
Strong investigative and troubleshooting capabilities, working independently and collaboratively
-
Experience working within global HR processes and matrix environments
-
Experience in, or interest in, leveraging AI to enhance payroll and systems solutions
