The Payroll Specialist plays a pivotal role in providing a high level of service in the resolution of complex payroll matters pertaining to all corporate employees of the department. The successful incumbent will provide leadership to a team of HR Consultants regarding the delivery of high-quality, customer centric payroll operations for the corporate workforce, delivering exceptional client service standards and encouraging cross functional team collaboration. This role will provide strategic operational payroll advice, support and lead the team, and contribute to management of day-to-day operations. The ideal candidate should be proactive, and customer-focused, possess strong problem-solving skills, and have excellent communication skills.

Multiple ongoing, full-time roles available.

About the Department

The role of the Department of Education is to support Victorians to build prosperous, socially engaged, happy and healthy lives. It does this by supporting lifelong learning and healthy development, strengthening families and helping to equip people with the skills and knowledge for a 21st century economy and society. The department supports a culture of leadership, learning and renewal in all workplaces with opportunities for career development and advancement.

About the Division

The People Strategy and Operations (VPS) Division is responsible for managing HR operations and providing strategic support for both corporate staff and accommodation services. It oversees corporate environments, sustainability initiatives, payroll, recruitment, policy development, workplace relations, and workforce management. Operating under a values-based framework, the division prioritizes meeting client needs and improving policies and processes, to deliver on our corporate responsibilities.

The People Services branch manages payroll, recruitment and HR services whilst nurturing a culture of high performance and innovation.

About the Role

The Payroll Specialist plays a pivotal role in providing a high level of service in the resolution of complex payroll matters pertaining to all corporate employees of the department. The successful incumbent will provide leadership to a team of HR Consultants regarding the delivery of high-quality, customer centric payroll operations for the corporate workforce, delivering exceptional client service standards and encouraging cross functional team collaboration. This role will provide strategic operational payroll advice, support and lead the team, and contribute to management of day-to-day operations. The ideal candidate should be proactive, and customer-focused, possess strong problem-solving skills, and have excellent communication skills.

To be successful in this role you will:

• Assist in leading, motivating, supporting and developing a team of payroll advisors to ensure a positive work environment
• Possess experience in high-volume payroll environments providing service in line with Service Level Agreements (SLAs)
• Become a subject matter expert and escalation point for complex payroll cases related matters or enquiries
• Provide expert advice on complex payroll matters to a diverse VPS corporate workforce.
• Effectively prioritise and manage all escalated enquiries within established SLAs, with accurate and timely service
• Work collaboratively with the team and others within the wider division to manage and resolve complex case escalations
• Establish comprehensive knowledge of departmental processes and policies for payroll matters
• Identify emerging people trends to drive informed decisions and proactively identify ongoing process and system improvement initiatives for payroll operations
• Deliver exceptional customer service, meeting payroll needs promptly for high client satisfaction.

Capabilities

The Payroll Specialist will be adaptable, collaborative, and can adjust to changing priorities whilst working effectively with cross-functional teams. They should thrive in solving complex payroll issues, identifying root causes, and delivering resolutions in line with legislation and company policies. They should help foster a collaborative and supportive team environment, sharing information with others and developing key stakeholder relationships. A focus on innovation and continuous improvement is essential, as is aligning solutions with broader organizational goals. Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills are key, along with the ability to manage stakeholders effectively and maintain a strong customer focus, ensuring that payroll services meet the needs of both the organization and its employees.

Desirable Experience and Skills

• Demonstrated experience leading or working in a dynamic, high-performing, high-volume payroll environment
• Demonstrated payroll software experience
• Strong knowledge and understanding of payroll legislation, procedures and practices
• Proven ability to develop positive relationships with stakeholders at a variety of levels
• Effective problem-solving capability to resolve complex payroll-related service queries
• Contribute to risk management and audits, providing payroll practice recommendations and solutions

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your resume and a supporting cover letter letter (no more than 2 pages) outlining your suitability and transferrable skills to the role.

Further Information

For more details regarding this position please see attached position description.

The department values diversity and inclusion in all forms - gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQ+, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. For more information about our work, working for the Department, diversity and inclusion, and our employment conditions visit the Department website and our Diversity and Inclusion page

Applicants requiring adjustments can contact the nominated contact person.

Information about the Department of Education's operations and employment conditions can be located at www.education.vic.gov.au.

For further information pertaining to the role, please contact 

Preferred applicants may be required to complete a police check and may be subject to other pre-employment checks. Information provided to the Department of Education will be treated in the strictest confidence.

Please let us know via phone or email if you require any adjustments to ensure your full participation in the recruitment process or if you need the ad or any attachments in an accessible format (e.g large print) due to any viewing difficulties or other accessibility requirements.

Applications close at 11:59pm, Tuesday, 10 December 2024.