Payroll Specialist

As a Payroll Specialist at Lightspeed, you will play a critical role in ensuring the accurate and timely processing of payroll for employees in Germany, as well as providing support for payroll operations in other regions. This role requires exceptional attention to detail, a strong understanding of German payroll laws and regulations, and the ability to work effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. You will collaborate with internal teams and external partners to deliver seamless payroll services while continuously seeking opportunities for process improvement. Key Responsibilities Payroll Processing & Management Accurately process monthly payroll for employees in Germany, ensuring timely and error-free completion of all payroll transactions. Handle various payroll variables such as insurance, transport reimbursement, withholding tax, stock options, RSUs, bonuses, overtime, on-call payments, exceptional bonuses, and time-off adjustments. Manage sick leave, maternity/paternity leave, and monitor subrogation periods. Collaborate with external payroll providers (e.g., Addison, SD Worx) to ensure the accuracy and timely receipt of payroll reports. Maintain accurate and confidential payroll records, including employee data, deductions, and tax information. Coordinate payroll approvals and funding instructions with the Finance team. Prepare and process payroll reconciliations, journal entries, accrual reports, and monthly summaries for relevant departments. Ensure compliance with German payroll regulations and maintain up-to-date knowledge of applicable local and national legislation. Address payroll-related issues and respond promptly to employee inquiries, providing excellent customer service. Manage statutory and internal reporting requirements and contribute to year-end payroll activities, including tax documents. - Support internal and external audits by providing accurate and timely payroll data and explanations. Ensure second-line support for complex payroll queries and provide resolutions in a timely manner. Continuous Improvement & Project Management Identify opportunities to streamline and automate payroll processes, driving self-service concepts and continuous improvement initiatives. Participate in or lead payroll projects and initiatives, including system upgrades and process optimizations. Contribute to the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and ensure knowledge-sharing among the payroll team. Collaboration & Communication Work closely with internal teams such as People & Culture, Finance, and IT to align payroll processes with organizational needs. Communicate effectively with external third-party payroll providers to ensure alignment and resolve any discrepancies. Share expertise with colleagues, fostering a knowledge management culture through clear documentation and collaborative problem-solving. **Qualifications**: Experience: 3-5 years of proven experience in payroll processing, with familiarity in German payroll laws, social security, and tax legislation. Experience with payroll systems such as Addison, SD Worx, and Workday is essential. Education: Degree in Administration, Accounting, HR, or related fields. Language Skills: Fluency in English and German is required. Knowledge of Dutch or Russian is an asset. Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft 365 (Excel, Word) and payroll software systems. Skills & Competencies: - Exceptional attention to detail and a high level of accuracy. - Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks under tight deadlines. - Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret complex data and provide actionable insights. - Customer-focused approach with excellent written and verbal communication skills. - Problem-solving abilities and a proactive, can-do attitude. - Ability to work autonomously and as part of a team in a fast-paced, international environment. - Strong sense of confidentiality and professionalism. - Flexibility and adaptability to handle changing priorities and challenges. Why Lightspeed? Joining Lightspeed means becoming part of a dynamic, innovative company that values its employees and encourages professional growth. In this role, you’ll have the opportunity to: Expand your expertise by learning payroll processes for multiple countries. Play a key role in shaping and improving payroll operations globally. Collaborate with talented colleagues across different regions and departments. Where to from here? Obviously, this has to be mutually beneficial: we want you to step into a role you love, and we want to offer you a place you’re proud to come to every day.. Lightspeed is building communities through commerce, and we need people from all backgrounds and lived experiences to do that. We were founded in 2005, in Montreal’s gay village and our original members were all part of the LGBTQ+ community. The ethos of our business has been about inclusion f