Job Description

Job Overview:
We are looking for an experienced and strategic Payroll Manager to lead the payroll function at Independent Food Company. The successful candidate will manage end-to-end payroll operations for a workforce of over 2,000 employees across multiple F&B concepts. This role requires exceptional attention to detail, deep understanding of UAE labor law and statutory requirements, and proven leadership in managing large-scale payroll systems.
Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the full payroll cycle, ensuring timely and accurate salary processing each month.
• Lead the payroll team and act as the point of contact for all payroll-related matters.
• Validate and approve payroll data, including incentives, bonuses, deductions, increments, final settlements, and resignations.
• Ensure accurate processing of end-of-service benefits, leave salaries, and gratuity in compliance with UAE labor law.
• Manage time and attendance systems, ensuring regularization and synchronization with payroll.
• Coordinate with the Finance department to facilitate salary disbursements and reconciliations.
• Prepare and present monthly payroll MIS reports and analytics to senior management.
• Ensure full compliance with Emiratization initiatives such as GPSSA, Nafis, and other statutory regulations.
• Maintain and regularly audit payroll records, ensuring data accuracy and confidentiality.
• Support internal and external payroll audits and ensure documentation is always audit-ready.
• Keep abreast of labor law updates, social security changes, and best practices in payroll management.
• Train and develop payroll team members to ensure consistent and high-quality delivery.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Accounting, Finance, or a related field (Master's or CIPD certification is a plus).
• 7-10 years of progressive experience in payroll, with at least 3+ years in a managerial role, ideally in the F&B, hospitality, or manufacturing industries.
• Demonstrated experience managing payroll for 2,000+ employees.
• Strong knowledge of UAE labor laws, WPS regulations, end-of-service calculations, and other statutory requirements.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (advanced skills required).
• Experience with HRMS payroll systems (SAP, Oracle, HR Works, or similar platforms).
• Strong understanding of Emiratization processes, including GPSSA and Nafis reporting.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• High level of integrity, discretion, and confidentiality.

Skills Required