Global Head of Payroll

Company: Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co.
Location: Boston
Posted on: May 3, 2025

Job Description:

KKR is a leading global investment firm that offers alternative asset management as well as capital markets and insurance solutions. KKR aims to generate attractive investment returns by following a patient and disciplined investment approach, employing world-class people, and supporting growth in its portfolio companies and communities. KKR sponsors investment funds that invest in private equity, credit and real assets and has strategic partners that manage hedge funds. KKR's insurance subsidiaries offer retirement, life and reinsurance products under the management of Global Atlantic Financial Group. References to KKR's investments may include the activities of its sponsored funds and insurance subsidiaries.POSITION SUMMARYKKR is seeking a Head of Global Payroll to be based in Boston. The role is responsible for the redesign and reorganization of the various payroll-related processes and teams into a more cohesive, standardized, and streamlined organization, optimized to deliver outstanding service to our employees. The primary focus will be on developing and executing the global payroll strategy, ensuring compliance with payroll regulations, and driving process improvements. This role will be responsible for overseeing and managing payroll operations for -60 payrolls across 20 countries. You will lead a team of payroll professionals, collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders, and provide strategic direction to optimize global payroll operations. This role requires strong leadership skills, extensive knowledge of global payroll practices, and the ability to navigate complex payroll landscapes.RESPONSIBILITIES

• Execute deployment and adoption of a global/regional payroll model, related systems and processes with local customization as needed, to aid in the quality, efficiency, and delivery of standardized processes.
• Develop the overall payroll strategy and manage the transformational roadmap considering the associated governance, policies, procedures, technologies, and other change management requirements.
• Oversee end-to-end global payroll operations, ensuring accurate and timely processing for multiple countries.
• Coordinate year-end payroll processes, including tax reporting, annual statements, and compliance filings globally.
• Ensure compliance with global payroll regulations, tax laws, and social security requirements in each jurisdiction.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with local payroll providers and vendors to ensure seamless payroll delivery.
• Drive process improvements to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and scalability of global payroll operations.
• Develop and implement global payroll policies, procedures, and controls to ensure consistent practices and compliance.
• Stay updated with evolving payroll regulations, industry trends, and emerging technologies in global payroll management.
• Lead and manage a global team of payroll professionals, providing guidance, mentorship, and performance feedback.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Human Capital, Finance, Legal, Compliance, and Technology, to streamline payroll processes and data integration.
• Manage relationships with external auditors, tax authorities, and other stakeholders for audits and compliance checks.
• Lead global payroll projects, such as system implementations, upgrades, and payroll harmonization initiatives.QUALIFICATIONS
  • 15+ years of relevant experience in Payroll or related Human Resources, Operational or Finance experience.
  • 10+ years of relevant experience leading Payroll and related processes in complex and rapidly changing organizations.
  • Experience managing Payroll for employees in a minimum of 15 countries to establish knowledge base in global payroll administration and how to build for scale.
  • A proven track record of driving significant process improvement and organizational redesign projects, such as the establishment of a Payroll shared-service environment; integration of multiple acquired companies into an existing Payroll organization; or implementation of new Payroll software and associated process re-engineering.
  • In-depth knowledge of global payroll practices, regulations, tax laws, and compliance requirements across multiple countries and regions.
  • Strong understanding of statutory deductions, tax rates, social security requirements, and benefits regulations globally.
  • Extensive experience in managing relationships with global payroll service providers and vendors.
  • Proficiency in using payroll software or systems for end-to-end global payroll processing.
  • Excellent understanding of HRIS systems and their integration with payroll systems; Workday experience preferred.
  • Understanding of data protection regulations and confidentiality requirements in handling employee information.
  • Proficient in using MS Office applications, particularly Excel, for data analysis and reporting.
  • Bachelor's degree in HR, Accounting, business, or a related field.
  • Relevant certifications in global payroll management or related fields are advantageous; certification or professional qualification in payroll such as the CIPP Diploma in Payroll Management, Certified Payroll Accountant or similar preferred.CRITICAL COMPETENCIES FOR SUCCESS
    • Strong leadership and people management skills, with the ability to lead and motivate a diverse team.
    • Aptitude for streamlining and simplifying teams, policies, and processes for efficiency, but with an appropriate balance of internal controls.
    • Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities to drive process improvements and optimize payroll operations.
    • Ability to navigate complex payroll landscapes, adapt to changing regulations, and manage risks.
    • Excellent analytical skills to assess payroll data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
    • Continuous learning mindset to stay updated with changes in global payroll regulations and best practices.
    • Team-player that enjoys working in a collaborative and collegial environment.
    • Ability to work in a fast-paced, global environment with a customer-centric mindset.
    • Excellent communication and presentation skills with the ability to engage with individuals across all levels.
    • Outstanding organization skills to manage multiple demands and projects while prioritizing time efficiently and remaining attentive to detail.
    • Takes initiative and uses good judgment; excellent follow-up skills.
    • Recognizes confidential, sensitive, and proprietary information and maintains confidentiality.
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Keywords: Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co., Providence , Global Head of Payroll, Human Resources , Boston, Rhode Island