BackgroundThe organisation has a wide range of responsibilities in relation to public transport in Ireland and some additional responsibilities specifically within the Greater Dublin Area.Role DescriptionWe are recruiting for an experienced Payroll Specialist within the Central Finance function. Reporting to the Finance Manager and working closely with various stakeholders, this lead role will primarily be responsible for processing end-to-end fortnightly payroll and associated payroll tasks. Hybrid working 2 days per week in office is required.PayrollPayroll is currently processed in-house and involves significant manual processing/intervention. Payroll files are Excel based so an excellent working knowledge of Excel is essential. As a Payroll Specialist, you will play a crucial role in ensuring the accurate and compliant processing of fortnightly payroll for employees in line with policies and procedures and relevant Government Body Circulars. You will be responsible for providing expert support, training, and guidance on payroll processes and procedures. You will also support general BAU work, audits and ad-hoc duties as required.Key ResponsibilitiesResponsible for the end-to-end processing and payments of fortnightly Payroll and deductions for staff and pensioners (approx. 400 and growing) ensuring all employees and deductions are accurately paid over on time and in accordance with policies and procedures, relevant Government Body Circulars and statutory obligationsProficiency in all aspects of PAYE and Revenue reporting, to include RPN processes and payroll submissionsPrepare necessary reconciliations and returns such as Pension and CSO in line with deadlinesSupport the month-end process as required including the preparation of payroll journals and monthly balance sheet reconciliationsDriving compliance and adherence to the policies set down by Revenue, Government Bodies and the organisation, supporting a strong compliance culture by ensuring robust internal controls and audit standards are achieved and maintainedPrepare high quality reports and ad-hoc returns to external stakeholders, such as the Department of Transport and other Freedom of Information requestsProviding inputs relating to Payroll for cash flow forecasting of paymentsKey point of contact for the Department of Transport, C&AG, internal and external stakeholders including HR, Revenue and external service providers providing efficient & effective support where requiredInput into the preparation of the internal and external audits, Financial Statements and budget processCollaborate on projects as part of a continuous improvement program, including the utilisation of technology and financial systems to streamline business processes. Coordinate and assist in the development of Finance Systems upgrades, enhancements and process developments both within the team and related control cyclesAny other duties that may be assigned to the roleEssential CriteriaThe post holder will be required to demonstrate excellent organizational, administrative and attention to detail skills, be able to work seamlessly as part of a team, possessing a professional approach to service users and staff. Have strong technical and problem solving skills.Hold a minimum of a NFQ degree level 7 qualificationHave at least 5 years recent, relevant (Irish Payroll) processing experienceIPASS or equivalent qualification requiredAbility to manage priorities and meet strict deadlinesExcellent MS Excel skillsCapacity to proactively and constructively contribute to team tasksStrong stakeholder management experience and ability to build rapport, effectively communicate to various finance and non-finance personnel and maintain confidentiality and integrityA 'can-do' and flexible approach with the ability to organise and prioritise workloads to meet deadlinesContinuous improvement mind-setGreat team working skills and an ability to show flexibility when faced with new challengesSelf-motivated and the ability to manage work within fixed deadlinesDesirable CriteriaCertificate or Diploma in a relevant areaRelevant experience in a Public Sector