Payroll Manager

EF Education First

Cape Town

On sitebased at our Cape Town Waterfront offices

As Payroll Manager at EF Education First, you will play a critical role in supporting a large, fast-paced, and international organization. Reporting directly to the Senior Operations Director, you will own end-to-end payroll for South Africa and act as the local subject-matter expert. This role offers the opportunity to drive process improvements, influence system enhancements, and expand your impact beyond traditional payroll responsibilities.

• Manage end-to-end payroll for 400+ full-time employees across multiple business units
• Perform payroll reconciliations, audits, and variance analysis
• Validate and approve payroll cycles processed through ADP Celergo
• Manage recurring and non-recurring payroll inputs, including bonuses and adjustments
• Ensure full legislative and statutory compliance, including EMP201, EMP501, SARS directives, and Workmen's Compensation submissions

• Develop, implement, and maintain payroll-related policies and procedures
• Drive automation initiatives and continuous quality improvements
• Partner with central teams to lead Oracle HCM localization and configuration for South Africa

• Oversee payroll-related onboarding and offboarding activities
• Manage Medical Aid administration and vendor coordination
• Provide payroll input and guidance on disciplinary processes as required
• Liaise with the CCMA and external stakeholders when necessary

• Mentor, train, and support junior payroll team members
• Review payroll work for accuracy and compliance
• Act as the primary payroll advisor and subject-matter expert for South Africa
• Support internal and external audits and provide accurate reporting and insights

• Diploma or further education in HR, Payroll, Accounting, or a related field
• SAPA membership is advantageous
• Fluent in English
• 5+ years of payroll experience, preferably in a complex or high-volume environment
• Strong knowledge of South African payroll legislation and compliance
• Advanced proficiency in MS Office; experience with ADP, Oracle, and Salesforce is an advantage
• Highly accurate, detail-oriented, and quality-driven
• Strong analytical and communication skills
• Able to work independently and manage competing priorities
• Previous people management experience is an advantage

• Significant autonomy and opportunities for professional growth
• Modern office located in Cape Town's Waterfront
• Collaborative, international working environment
• Competitive, market-related benefits package