Payroll Controller

About WPP Production

We are WPP Production - the unified global production company that brings together all of WPP's content producers, studios and craft experts into one connected organisation. We combine world-class human craft with next generation technology to originate, design, and deliver multi-channel content systems at scale. Built for borderless collaboration and powered by deep craft expertise, we are the production engine designed for today's always on, AI driven marketing world.

About WPP

WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company – powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. For more information, visit WPP.com.

About the role

 

As a Payroll Controller, you will play a key role in ensuring employees are paid accurately, on time and in full compliance with local regulations. You’ll work closely with HR, Finance, Operations and external payroll providers, combining payroll control with employee administration, reporting and process improvement. This role offers real visibility across the business and the opportunity to make a tangible impact by ensuring payroll excellence, data accuracy and a great employee experience in a dynamic, international environment.

 

What you will do

• Review and validate the monthly payroll process, ensuring accurate and timely payment of salaries, variable compensation, benefits and deductions.
• Coordinate with external payroll providers, managing incidents, escalations and ensuring end‑to‑end payroll accuracy.
• Ensure full compliance with tax, social security and statutory regulations, as well as internal company policies.
• Handle employee administration activities, including hires, terminations, contractual changes, salary updates and system data maintenance.
• Supervise payroll-related taxes, social security contributions and statutory filings.
• Act as a point of contact for employees on payroll, variable compensation, benefits, tax and social security queries, providing clear and reliable guidance.
• Perform payroll reconciliations and audit controls, and support internal and external payroll audits.
• Prepare payroll reporting and analitics insights for HR, Finance and Operations teams.
• Support Finance team during month‑end close and reporting activities.
• Proactively resolve critical and escalated payroll issues in a timely manner.
• Continuously review and improve payroll processes to ensure efficiency, accuracy and reliability.
• Provide ad‑hoc support on payroll and HR projects, working closely with HR, Finance, Operations and external stakeholders.

 

What we are looking for

• Degree in Labour Relations, Business Administration, Finance or a related field.
• 3–5 years of proven experience in payroll and employee administration, gained either in corporate environments, professional services firms or payroll/HR consultancies.
• Strong understanding of payroll processes, tax and social security regulations.
• Experience working with external payroll providers and reviewing end‑to‑end payroll cycles.
• Advanced Excel skills (regular use of formulas, reconciliations, data analysis and reporting).
• Experience with payroll systems and HRIS tools
• Strong attention to detail, analytical mindset and problem‑solving skills.
• Professional level of English in an international environment

Why work here: 
At WPP Production, you’ll help shape the future of content production at a truly global scale. We bring together world-class talent, cutting-edge studios, and advanced technology to solve some of the most complex creative and production challenges in the industry. You’ll work in a collaborative, borderless environment where craft excellence is valued, innovation is encouraged, and AI and next-generation tools are used to amplify not replace human creativity. With access to diverse projects, global career opportunities, and the backing of WPP’s unmatched network, this is a place where you can grow your skills, make real impact, and create work that performs for every audience, across every channel, at every moment.

Inclusion and Impact 
WPP is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.

Data
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