Head of Global Payroll

We are seeking an experienced Head of Global Payroll to lead and scale the payroll function for our rapidly growing, innovation-driven global ophthalmic pharmaceutical and medical device company. This role offers a unique opportunity to design, build, and optimize payroll processes and systems that will support our ambitious growth trajectory and global footprint.

The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced growth environment, bringing deep payroll expertise, a strategic mindset, hands-on approach, and a passion for building scalable, efficient systems that deliver exceptional service to our employees worldwide.

This is a working manager role, overseeing a small team. The successful candidate will be both in the day-to-day detailed execution with the team, as well as looking forward-looking planning and project management.

Strategic Leadership and Process Development

• Work with Finance leadership to develop and execute a global payroll strategy to meet the needs of a dynamic and rapidly expanding organization.
• Develop and implement scalable payroll processes and systems that anticipate and accommodate future growth and complexity.
• Collaborate with HR, Finance, and IT teams to ensure effective, proactive business partnership in broader business strategies and systems.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee the accurate and compliant processing of multi-country payrolls across all regions, taking a hands-on role in day-to-day operations and establishing proactive, preventative measures to drive operational efficiency.
• Lead the selection, implementation, and optimization of payroll systems as needed.
• Partner with internal and external stakeholders to ensure seamless integration in new market entries.
• Proactively identify and resolve payroll issues, driving continuous process improvement.

Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with all local, national, and international payroll regulations, tax laws, and reporting requirements.
• Partner with Accounting, Legal, Global Technology Solutions, and Audit teams to mitigate risks and maintain audit readiness.

Team Building and Leadership

• Lead the US and global payroll teams, balancing customer experience, compliance, growth scaling, and process efficiency.
• Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement within the payroll function.
• Provide ongoing coaching, development, and mentorship to team members.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field (Master's degree or CPA preferred).
• 15+ years of progressive payroll experience, with significant leadership experience in a global, high-growth environment.
• Proven success in designing and scaling payroll systems and processes in a rapidly growing organization.
• Industry experience in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, or healthcare is a strong plus.

Skills and Competencies

• Expert knowledge of domestic and international payroll compliance, and taxation.
• Demonstrated ability to lead system implementations.
• Exceptional problem-solving, organizational, and project management skills, with a focus on innovation and scalability.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to influence and engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Proficiency in various payroll platforms.

#GKOSUS