At Kainos, we’re problem solvers, innovators, and collaborators - driven by a shared mission to create real impact. Whether we’re transforming digital services for millions, delivering cutting-edge Workday solutions, or pushing the boundaries of technology, we do it together.
We believe in a people-first culture, where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your contributions truly make a difference. Here, you’ll be part of a diverse, ambitious team that celebrates creativity and collaboration.
Ready to make your mark? Join us and be part of something bigger.
As Group Payroll Manager – Payroll Projects & Transformation at Kainos, you will lead the continuing evolution of the global payroll function, driving transformation, value and long-term capability.
Reporting to the Group Financial Controller, you will act as the commercial and strategic lead for payroll globally working closely with People Operations, Finance, and Commercial teams to ensure payroll supports Kainos’ growth ambitions and remains robust, scalable and fit for the future.
This role would suit a commercially minded payroll manager who is energised by change, enjoys working with complex systems and stakeholders, and is motivated by building sustainable, future-ready payroll processes.
The key responsibilities for this role include:
•Lead and contribute to cross-functional payroll projects (including EU Pay Transparency), with a strong focus on automation, data quality and resilience.
• Define, evolve and deliver the payroll transformation strategy for Kainos to ensure the function is scalable, compliant and aligned to future business needs.
• Partner with Commercial, Finance and People Operations teams to ensure robust payroll compliance and governance across all regions by building strong, collaborative relationships.
• Provide strategic insight when considering expansion into new locations, ensuring payroll readiness and scalability.
• Evolve payroll procedures, systems and controls to ensure accurate, timely and resilient global payroll processing.
• Develop and drive strategies that balance high levels of internal service with cost effective payroll delivery.
• Own the ongoing evaluation of outsourced payroll providers, ensuring strong performance, value for money and alignment with Kainos’ future payroll needs.
• Provide leadership and expert guidance on complex payroll tax matters across all jurisdictions, supporting business units with clear, pragmatic advice.
• Provide expert support and escalation assistance to the payroll team at key points in the payroll cycle along with supporting the development of the capability through knowledge sharing, mentoring and embedding improved processes and controls.
MINIMUM (ESSENTIAL) REQUIREMENTS:
• Extensive experience in a global payroll role with strong experience operating at a managerial or leadership level
• Excellent Financial systems knowledge and Excel skills
• Experience designing, implementing and enhancing payroll controls within complex or evolving environments
• Ability to work to tight deadlines and exercise sound judgement in complex or high impact situations
• Highly flexible, including willingness to work flexible hours at peak times
DESIRABLE REQUIREMENTS:
• Experience with Workday, including system optimisation, configuration or integration with wider finance and people systems
•Experience supporting payroll system change, enhancement or implementation projects
At Kainos, we believe in the power of diversity, equity and inclusion. We are committed to building a team that is as diverse as the world we live in, where everyone is valued, respected, and given an equal chance to thrive. We actively seek out talented people from all backgrounds, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other characteristic that makes them who they are. We also believe every candidate deserves a level playing field.
Our friendly talent acquisition team is here to support you every step of the way, so if you require any accommodations or adjustments, we encourage you to reach out.
We understand that everyone's journey is different, and by having a private conversation we can ensure that our recruitment process is tailored to your needs.
Skills Required
- Extensive experience in a global payroll role at a managerial or leadership level
- Excellent Financial systems knowledge and Excel skills
- Experience designing, implementing and enhancing payroll controls within complex environments
- Ability to work to tight deadlines and exercise sound judgement
- Highly flexible, including willingness to work flexible hours at peak times
What We Do
At Kainos we use technology to solve real problems for our customers, overcome big challenges for businesses, and make people’s lives easier. We build strong relationships with our customers and go beyond to change the way they work today and the impact they have tomorrow. Our two specialist business areas, Digital Services and the Workday Practice, work globally for clients across healthcare, commercial and the public sector to make the world a little bit better, day by day.
