HR Payroll & Operations Specialist - Assistant Vice President (f/m/d)

SMBC: A trusted partner for the long term 

Here at SMBC Group, we want to help you find the next step in your career so read on to discover if this opportunity is the one for you. We like to recognise potential in our people, so we welcome your application even when your experience doesn’t perfectly align with the job description. Whilst we’ll always strive to be better, we’re proud of our inclusive culture, and encourage our applicants and colleagues to be their authentic, unique selves. 

Who we are

United by a sense of purpose towards our customers – to be a trusted partner for the long-term – and our universal banking platform in EMEA, SMBC Group has an international growth agenda and award-winning products, meaning we provide exciting opportunities to work on a diverse range of projects and initiatives. We deliver a full suite of corporate finance products and solutions to our customers as well as investment banking and advisory services, and a range of innovative solutions in global capital markets. Read on to find out how you could enhance your skills and gain valuable experience, by joining us to support our clients transition to a sustainable future.

Role Summary

Is the next step in your career at SMBC Group EMEA? We are looking for a HR Payroll & Operations Specialist - Assistant Vice President (f/m/d) to join our HR Services team.

In this role, you will be responsible for:

• supporting payroll operations across Germany and the Netherlands while acting as a key expert on payroll, tax, social security, and expatriate-related matters.
• working closely with external payroll providers, tax advisors, Finance, Legal, Mobility teams, and international HR colleagues, you will ensure payroll processes are delivered accurately, on time, and in compliance with all regulatory requirements. You will also contribute to continuous process improvements and support audits, reporting activities, and employee payroll enquiries.

This role offers significant exposure to international payroll and expatriate topics within a leading global financial institution.

The anticipated salary range for this role is €66,000-€99,000 with the final offer determined based on the candidate’s skills, experience, role scope, location, and relevant market factors. In addition to base salary, the role may be eligible for a discretionary incentive award and a competitive benefits package, including core benefits such as pension provision.

Position Description

Responsibilities:

• Prepare and validate payroll data for Germany and the Netherlands, ensuring accurate and timely salary payments.
• Support expatriate payroll activities, including tax and social security-related matters.
• Perform payroll reconciliations and support month-end and year-end processes.
• Act as a key contact for employee payroll enquiries through Service Now and liaise with external payroll providers, tax advisors, and internal stakeholders.
• Support audits, compliance requirements, and payroll reporting activities.
• Maintain payroll procedures and contribute to process improvements and automation initiatives.
• Support the administration of employee benefits and pension schemes.

Experience & Qualifications:

• Several years of payroll, HR operations, or related professional experience.
• Good knowledge of payroll taxation, social security, and employment regulations.
• Experience working with external payroll providers and multiple stakeholders.
• Exposure to expatriate payroll or international employment matters is an advantage.
• Degree or vocational qualification in HR, Payroll, Finance, Tax, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a customer-focused mindset.
• Advanced Excel skills; experience with SuccessFactors, ServiceNow HR, DATEV, or similar systems is beneficial.
• Fluent German and English, both written and spoken.

Competencies

What we offer

For all the expertise and experience you bring to help us make a difference, it’s only sustainable if we support you to build your career and be your best self so we offer competitive company benefits, centred around promoting positive well-bring and work-life balance. We also believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment, where all team members perspectives and contributions are valued. Initiatives in place which promote a diverse and inclusive culture and healthy work life balance include hybrid working, Sport & Social Clubs and Diversity and Inclusion networks.

As an employee of SMBC you have access to a host of both useful and exciting benefit offerings. See below some of the benefits on offer to you:

• Hybrid and flexible working 
• Competitive paid leave days
• Benefits to support your physical wellbeing, including private medical insurance 
• Various policies to support your mental wellbeing, including a robust behavioural health network with counselling and coaching services  
• Access a wide range of learning and development opportunities and career progression opportunities 
• Ambitious remuneration package

So, if you like a challenge and want to continuously grow and develop in a role where you will be supported along the way by a dynamic and diverse team, apply today!