Global Head of Payroll and Benefits (18 month Fixed Term Contract) HR / People London Hybri ...

Croud is a global, full service digital marketing agency with a unique business model that helps businesses drive sustainable growth in the new world of marketing. Croud was recently named a Sunday Times Best Place to Work for the second year in a row, and was named Performance Marketing Employer of the Year by PMW.

The Global Head of Payroll and Benefits will oversee the payroll, benefits, and compensation planning functions for Croud, which has a global presence in the UK, New York, Atlanta and Dubai. This role involves reviewing current providers, establishing a streamlined structure with a single provider, and ensuring the efficient, compliant, and strategic management of payroll and benefits operations.

This stand-alone role reports to the HR Director. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, extensive knowledge of global payroll and benefits regulations, and experience in compensation planning.

Croud operates ahybrid working model with a minimum of 3 days a week based in our London officeand the remaining days from home if you wish.

Strategic Oversight:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive global payroll and benefits strategy that aligns with the company's business objectives
• Lead the transition to a unified payroll and benefits provider, ensuring a seamless integration and optimal performance

Provider Review and Selection:

• Evaluate current payroll and benefits providers to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement
• Conduct a thorough RFP (Request for Proposal) process to select a single provider that meets the company's global needs
• Work with the Contract team to negotiate contracts and service level agreements with the chosen provider

Project Management:

• Lead global project aimed at improving payroll and benefits systems, processes and policies
• Develop project plans, timelines and budgets, ensuring alignment with Crouds company goals
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams including HR, Finance, IT and external vendors, to ensure successful project execution
• Monitor project progress, manage risks, and provide regular updates to senior leadership

Operational Management:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of global payroll and benefits to ensure accuracy, compliance, and timeliness
• Implement standardised processes and systems to improve efficiency and reduce errors
• Monitor and manage the performance of the payroll and benefits provider, ensuring adherence to agreed-upon service levels

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Ensure compliance with all applicable local, regional, and international payroll and benefits regulations
• Develop and maintain policies and procedures to mitigate risk and ensure audit readiness

Compensation Planning:

• Develop and manage global compensation programs, including salary structures, incentive plans, and equity programs
• Conduct market analysis to ensure competitive compensation practices
• Collaborate with HR and finance teams to align compensation plans with overall business strategy and budget

Leadership and Collaboration:

• Collaborate with HR, finance, legal, and other departments to support overall business goals
• Communicate effectively with senior leadership on payroll, benefits, and compensation matters

Expected Outcomes:

• Successful integration of a single payroll and benefits provider within the first 12 months
• Achieving compliance with all relevant regulations in the UK, New York, Atlanta and Dubai
• Improved efficiency in payroll processing, reducing errors by a specified percentage

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field; Master's degree preferred
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in payroll and benefits management, with at least 5 years in a leadership role
• Extensive knowledge of global payroll and benefits regulations and best practices
• Proven experience in selecting and managing third-party providers
• Strong analytical skills and experience in compensation planning and market analysis
• Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Certification in payroll or compensation (e.g., CPP, CCP) is a plus
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving
• Strong organisational and excellent project management skills
• Attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
• Ability to build and maintain relationships across various levels of the organisation
• Proficiency in HRIS and payroll software systems

Croud offers a clear path to progression for all members of staff. We are committed to offering development opportunities alongside a support system of regular performance reviews. The opportunities are endless!

On completion of the three month probation period every employee is eligible for the benefits listed on our careers site which include:

• 25 days holiday a year
• Discretionary annual performance based incentive
• Sale commission
• Recruitment referrals bonus
• Health & Wellbeing contribution
• Ride to Work scheme
• Railcard
• Season Ticket loan
• Home office chair and home office screen
• Free fruit, breakfast cereals, snacks and tea & coffee in the office
• Enhanced Primary and Secondary family leave as well as extended Parental Leave and Shared Family Leave
• Life assurance and income protection
• Medical Cash Plan
• Pension
• Curated 3rd party learning platform as well as access to Croud Campus (our bespoke learning and development platform)
• IPA Membership
• Peer to peer recognition scheme 'bonusly'
• Team off-sites/regular socials
• Year-round holiday parties
• Flexible working options
• Day to make a difference

Standard hours are from 9.00am to 17:30pm, there's flexibility if agreed in advance with your line managers (it may also be necessary on occasions to work outside of these hours).

Croud is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the grounds of a person's gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation. All candidates will be assessed based on merit, qualifications and their ability to perform the requirements of the role.

At Croud, our vision centres around the idea of unlocking potential. We do this by elevating everyone in an inclusive and progressive culture, empowering individuals to deliver their best work. This means we build better brand outcomes, and unlock potential for our people, our clients and our communities.

We live and breathe five key values at Croud, which build a culture that elevates everyone, allowing our people to thrive:

• In it together - our value on integration, collaboration and outcomes
• Eye on the future - our value on futurism, creativity and passion
• Generous in spirit - our value on people, development and inclusion
• Do what you say - our value on integrity and accountability
• Make a difference - our value on purpose and impact