Payroll Functional Specialist

We are seeking an experienced Payroll Functional Specialist to be a key guardian of our payroll system and an expert partner to the business. This newly created role will join a small and experienced payroll team and will be responsible for the ongoing functional support, optimisation, and integrity of our payroll system (aPay), ensuring accurate and compliant payroll processing in line with New Zealand employment legislation, including the Holidays Act 2003 and organisational requirements.

The role provides expert analysis, testing, documentation, and system configuration support, and works closely with Payroll, HR, Finance, and vendors to drive continuous improvement and resolve complex payroll system issues.

While the role is Christchurch based, we are open to considering remote or flexible working arrangements for the right person.

• Provide ongoing functional support, optimisation and oversight of the payroll system
• Lead HRIS related projects, enhancements and upgrades
• Configure, test and implement approved payroll system improvements
• Maintain the quality, integrity and fitness for purpose of payroll data
• Develop and execute testing plans, including complex payroll scenarios
• Use SQL to run and build ad hoc queries to support payroll processing, audits and investigations
• Document system changes clearly and ensure knowledge is shared
• Provide training and guidance to the payroll team on functional changes
• Build trusted relationships with internal stakeholders and external vendors
• Support continuous improvement and help resolve complex payroll issues
• Provide support in processing payroll and performing end-to-end payroll functions, including stepping in to assist the wider team when required.

• A tertiary qualification at degree level in a relevant discipline or equivalent practical experience
• Strong experience with New Zealand payroll and employment legislation, including the Holidays Act 2003
• Proven experience (10+ years) working with payroll and HRIS systems
• Excellent analytical and problem solving skills
• Experience planning, prioritising and delivering work across competing demands
• SQL reporting capability
• Experience leading system or process improvements or projects
• A proactive, solutions focused mindset
• The ability to collaborate, explain complex concepts clearly and build trust

Experience in the tertiary education sector and or experience with aPay would be an advantage but is not essential.