Senior Payroll Specialist 100% ASAP

Our client is a reputable international financial institution based in Basel. They offer a dynamic and collaborative working environment and are currently seeking a Senior Payroll Specialist to strengthen their Payroll team and ensure the smooth handling of payroll operations, social security, and taxes for staff members and pensioners.

Description

• Manage end-to-end payroll processing, ensuring accuracy of salary and pension payments and resolving discrepancies.
• Administer social security accounts (AHV/ALV) for Swiss nationals and support staff with income tax queries, coordinating with external consultants for annual tax return processes.
• Prepare accounting journals, reconcile monthly and annual balances, and liaise with Finance and Banking providers.
• Ensure proper filing and archiving of payroll-related documentation in compliance with internal policies.
• Review and document payroll processes, recommend improvements, and implement agreed changes in collaboration with the Payroll Manager.
• Provide expertise on HR projects, including system implementations, ensuring successful integration for payroll and compensation & benefits.
• Offer ad hoc support to the Compensation & Benefits team, including coverage during absences of the Payroll Manager.
• Oversee PDA, loans, and blocked accounts to manage funding with banking partners.

Profile

• 5+ years of experience in payroll, demonstrating expertise in processing, administration, and issue resolution, including multi-currency payroll.
• Strong knowledge of salary/pension management, reconciliations, reimbursements, and statutory requirements (AHV/ALV).
• Fluency in German (essential) and good written and spoken English
• Hands-on experience with HR IT systems, ideally Workday.
• Solid understanding of payroll, compensation, and benefits processes.
• Experience with exception and audit reporting.
• Familiarity with social security and tax management, including Swiss tax support.
• High attention to detail, accuracy, and ability to deliver under pressure.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with excellent organizational abilities.
• Proactive learner with an interest in process optimization and knowledge sharing.
• Team player who is flexible and able to work independently.
• Experience with payroll system implementation and optimization.
• Knowledge of managing loans and savings accounts for employees and pensioners.
• Familiarity with PeopleSoft.

Job Offer

The successful candidate will join a reputable international financial institution, working in a collaborative environment with exposure to payroll process improvements and participation in the implementation of a new HR system.