French Payroll Specialist (Interim)

Reading, Berkshire Michael Page Seeking an interim French Payroll Specialist to assist the wider EMEA payroll function with day to day BAU for a key client of ours, within the IT industry. This is an immediate start and rolling contract (minimum 6 months term). Client Details Our client Global leader in their respective field Operating in 15+ countries Highly acquisitive - steady growth business across EMEA, LATAM and US 2,000 employees+ globally Headquartered in the states, office in Reading Free parking on site Multi-award winning organisation Description French Payroll Specialist (Interim) Manage the end-to-end French payroll process, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time. Liaise with external payroll providers and monitor service delivery against agreed standards. Review and validate payroll input data, identifying and resolving discrepancies prior to payroll processing. Prepare payroll-related accounting entries and support monthly reconciliation activities. Ensure statutory payroll payments, including taxes, social contributions and pension-related obligations, are approved and submitted within required deadlines. Support the processing of equity-related compensation, including share plans, stock awards and other incentive programmes where applicable. Maintain and update payroll procedures, documentation and standard operating processes. Ensure payroll processes comply with internal controls, audit requirements and relevant legislation. Respond to employee, manager and stakeholder payroll queries in a professional and timely manner. Assist with year-end activities and statutory reporting requirements. Partner with internal teams including HR, Finance and external vendors to ensure payroll accuracy and compliance. Support internal and external audit requests by providing payroll documentation and reporting as required. Collaborate with colleagues across the wider payroll function to provide support and ensure continuity of service. Contribute to payroll improvement initiatives, including process standardisation, automation and continuous improvement projects. Profile French Payroll Specialist (Interim) Fluency in French and English (essential) Exposure to numerous in country vendors (highly desirable) Commutable distance of Reading (2x days per week) Previous experience processing French payroll within an in-house or outsourced environment (essential) Strong understanding of French payroll legislation, taxation and social security requirements. Experience working with external payroll providers. Knowledge of payroll accounting, reconciliations and payroll journals. Experience handling complex payroll elements such as bonuses, commissions, benefits and equity programmes would be advantageous.Job Offer French Payroll Specialist (Interim) Day rate: c. (Apply online only) per day (inclusive of holiday pay) Rolling contract (interim) c. 6 months 2x days per week on site, free parking Hybrid working Adjustable working hours (40 hours per week - early start for early finish for example) Reading location High likelihood of extension