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We’re partnering with a large, values-led organisation undergoing a significant payroll transformation, and they’re looking for an experienced Payroll Lead to play a key role in delivering a new payroll solution.

This is a 12-month contract role within a major programme, where you’ll bring your deep payroll expertise to support the design, build, and implementation of a new payroll system, integrated with Workday. 

About the role

Although the role is based in Hamilton, we’re open to Auckland-based candidates who can commute 1–2 days per week.

You’ll act as the key link between the internal payroll team, system integrators, and vendors, ensuring payroll requirements are clearly defined, validated, and delivered.

This is a complex environment with multiple workstreams, so you’ll need to be comfortable navigating ambiguity and working across a broad stakeholder group.

From shaping payroll design decisions through to leading testing cycles and supporting go-live readiness, you’ll play a central role in making sure the new payroll solution is accurate, compliant, and fit for purpose.

Key responsibilities

• Lead payroll requirements definition, ensuring alignment with NZ legislation including Holidays Act, PAYE, and entitlements
• Support payroll solution design and configuration alongside vendors and system integrators, including Workday integration
• Oversee payroll data cleansing, validation, and migration activities
• Lead payroll testing, including UAT and parallel runs, ensuring accuracy and compliance
• Act as the main point of contact across payroll workstreams, coordinating vendors and internal teams
• Support change, training, and readiness activities leading into go-live
• Provide clear reporting on progress, risks, and key decisions

What we’re looking for

• 7+ years’ experience in NZ payroll, including system implementations or transformation programmes
• Strong knowledge of NZ payroll legislation and compliance requirements
• Proven experience working with Workday in a payroll or HRIS environment (essential)
• Experience working with payroll vendors and system integrators (Datapay highly regarded)
• Proven ability to operate in complex, fast-paced environments
• Strong stakeholder engagement and communication skills
• Highly organised, detail focused, and solutions driven

Why this role

This is a unique opportunity to be part of a meaningful transformation programme within an organisation that places strong emphasis on its people, culture, and long-term impact.

You’ll be joining a collaborative environment where your expertise will genuinely shape outcomes, with the chance to work on a high-profile programme that will deliver lasting change.

If you’re an experienced Payroll Lead with strong Workday exposure  we’d love to hear from you.

All applications will be acknowledged by email. 

Please note you must have New Zealand eligibility to be considered for this role.