Main Mission :
The Senior Payroll Accountant is responsible for managing and recording all payroll-related accounting operations.
While the payroll process is managed by the Human Resources department, the Senior Payroll Accountant ensures the accuracy of payroll entries, compliance with social and tax obligations, and proper reconciliation with the general ledger. The role serves as a key link between the HR (payroll) and Accounting departments.
This position reports hierarchically to the Group Chief Accountant.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Payroll Accounting and Control
Record and reconcile payroll entries in the accounting system.
Verify the accuracy and consistency of payroll data and general ledger postings.
Reconcile payroll accounts, including salaries, taxes, and social contributions.
Track provisions for paid leave, bonuses, and other employee benefits.
Recording invoices related to Social, bank entries and bank reconciliation.
Accrual provision on monthly/quarterly basis (Holiday, retirement benefit, and associated charges).
Prepare Direct/Indirect salaries cost allocation tables for management reporting.
Prepare payments (wages, social contribution) for CPO review .
Investigate and explain payroll-related variances.
2. Social and Tax Declarations
Verify social declarations (social security, pension funds, health insurance, etc.).
Assist/ Verify in preparing annual declarations (e.g., employee income reports, training, apprenticeship taxes).
Ensure compliance with all applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
3. Financial Closings and Reporting
Participate in monthly and annual financial closings (respect deadline, accruals invoices and commissions…).
Reconcile and justify payroll and social charge accounts.
Produce and analyse payroll-related reports (staff costs, headcount, benefits, etc.).
Support external/internal audits and provide requested payroll documentation.
4. Process Improvement and Support
Collaborate with the HR department and the Accounting Department to optimize payroll accounting processes.
Contribute to system upgrades and implementation of new tools.
Maintain awareness of changes in payroll legislation and accounting standards.
Profile Required:
Education :
Bachelor’s degree or higher in accounting (e.g., BBA, Accounting Diploma, or equivalent).
A professional certification (e.g., ACCA, CPA) is a plus.
Experience:
3–5+ years of experience in payroll accounting, preferably with exposure to multi-country payroll and compliance.
Experience supporting internal/external audits and preparing financial statements related to payroll obligations.
Technical Skills:
Strong understanding of accounting principles and payroll processes.
Knowledge of social, tax, and labour regulations.
Proficiency with ERP (Knowledge of Sage X3 preferred).
Advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, formulas, data analysis).
Fluent in English. French would be a plus.
Behavioural Skills:
Strong attention to detail and analytical mindset.
High level of confidentiality and discretion.
Organizational and time management skills.
Ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.