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Payroll Administrator

VML

Department: Finance

Location: Johannesburg, South Africa

Requisition ID: 8914

Who We Are:

At VML, we are a beacon of innovation and growth in an ever-evolving world. Our heritage is built upon a century of combined expertise, where creativity meets technology, and diverse perspectives ignite inspiration. With the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, we have forged a new path as a growth partner that is part creative agency, part consultancy, and part technology powerhouse. 

Our global family now encompasses over 30,000 employees across 150+ offices in 64 markets, each contributing to a culture that values connection, belonging, and the power of differences.  Our expertise spans the entire customer journey, offering deep insights in communications, commerce, consultancy, CRM, CX, data, production, and technology. We deliver end-to-end solutions that result in revolutionary work. 

What you’ll do: 

The Payroll Administrator plays a vital role in ensuring the accurate and timely processing of payroll for VML SA's four entities. This position requires a strong understanding of payroll legislation, proficiency in Sage 300, and experience with Employee Self-Service (ESS) systems. The Payroll Administrator will be responsible for managing all aspects of the payroll cycle, including data entry, processing, reporting, and compliance. They will also provide support to employees regarding payroll inquiries and maintain accurate records.

  • Payroll Processing: Accurately process monthly payroll for four entities using Sage 300, ensuring all payroll data (earnings, deductions, benefits) is up to date. Handle payroll adjustments, salary-related transactions, and generate dummy payslips as needed.
  • Leave Management: Administer employee leave requests via the ESS system, track and update leave balances, ensure ESS accuracy, and provide support to employees using the system.
  • Statutory Reporting: Prepare and submit accurate and timely statutory reports for PAYE, UIF, SDL, and Stats SA. Stay abreast of legislative changes impacting payroll compliance and reporting.
  • Compliance and Audits: Maintain compliance with company policies, South African labour laws, and payroll regulations. Assist with internal and external audits related to payroll and leave administration.
  • Employee Support: Address employee inquiries regarding payroll, leave balances, and statutory deductions. Provide clear communication regarding payroll timelines, changes, and updates.
  • Reporting: Compile and submit monthly payroll reports to relevant departments.
  • Other Duties: Assist with pension fund administration, medical aid administration, and other ad-hoc tasks as required.

What you’ll need:

  • Proven Experience: 3-5 years of demonstrable payroll processing experience.
  • Qualifications: A relevant qualification in payroll administration, accounting, or human resources would be highly regarded.
  • Software Proficiency: Essential experience with Sage 300 (non-negotiable), ESS systems, Microsoft Office 365 suite, and SARS eFiling and EasyFile.
  • Legislation Knowledge: Solid understanding of South African payroll legislation, including PAYE, UIF, SDL, and related acts.
  • Accuracy and Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to data entry and processing with a strong focus on accuracy.
  • Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively interact with employees and management.
  • Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to identify and resolve payroll discrepancies and issues efficiently.
  • Time Management and Organization: Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize workload, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Confidentiality: Maintain strict confidentiality regarding sensitive payroll information.
  • Personality Traits: Proactive, reliable, team player, and able to work independently.

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At VML, we are committed to fostering an all-inclusive work environment that is both rewarding and career-forward. Our Inclusion, Equity & Belonging initiatives, alongside the VML Foundation, reflect our dedication to giving back and making a positive impact in our communities and beyond. Our people are the heartbeat of our organization—creators, doers, innovators, makers, and thinkers—who drive not just marketing, but meaningful experiences that resonate in every action and interaction. 

VML is a WPP Agency. For more information, please visit our website, and follow VML on our social channels via Instagram, LinkedIn, and X. 

When you click "Submit Application", this will send any information you add below to VML. Before you do this, we think it's a good idea to read through our Recruitment Privacy Policy. California residents should read our California Recruitment Privacy Notice. This explains what we do with your personal data when you apply for a role with us, and, how you can update the information you have provided us with or how to remove it.

When you click "Submit Application", this will send any information you add below to VML. Before you do this, we think it's a good idea to read through our Recruitment Privacy Policy. California residents should read our California Recruitment Privacy Notice. This explains what we do with your personal data when you apply for a role with us, and, how you can update the information you have provided us with or how to remove it.