Global Payroll Compliance Lead

ACCA is committed to a workplace culture which is inclusive, diverse, human and connected.

Shape the future of global payroll compliance at ACCA.

We're looking for a strategic, influential, and detail-driven Global Payroll Compliance Lead on a 12-month fixed term contract basis to shape and lead the development of a world-class global payroll compliance framework.

In this high-impact role, you'll ensure regulatory alignment, operational excellence, and risk mitigation across all countries where ACCA operates-driving trust, integrity, and resilience in our global payroll operations.

The role can be hybrid based from out Glasgow or London office or remote within the UK.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Design and implement a scalable Global Payroll Compliance Framework aligned with regulatory, audit, and ISO standards.
• Monitor and mitigate compliance risks through regulatory horizon scanning and proactive controls.
• Ensure adherence to global data protection laws (e.g. GDPR, CCPA, LGPD, PDPA), embedding privacy-by-design principles.
• Define and maintain payroll compliance policies, controls, and escalation protocols.
• Establish governance and assurance models, including control testing and audit readiness.
• Build internal capability through training and knowledge-sharing on compliance and regulatory obligations.

What You'll Bring

Key Skills:

• Strong stakeholder engagement and influencing skills across internal teams and external partners.
• Proven ability to identify and mitigate compliance risks proactively.
• Advanced analytical and reporting skills to interpret complex payroll data and support decision-making.
• Resilient, accountable, and proactive in navigating complex compliance scenarios.
• Deep expertise in global payroll regulations, data protection laws, and audit readiness.
• Experience managing external payroll providers and building internal compliance capability.

Experience

• Proven expertise in designing and implementing global payroll compliance and governance frameworks.
• In-depth knowledge of global payroll regulations, statutory obligations, and best practices.
• Practical experience applying data protection laws (GDPR, CCPA, LGPD, PDPA) to payroll operations.
• Strong background in payroll auditing, control testing, and compliance reporting.
• Experience managing external payroll providers across multiple countries.
• Demonstrated ability to upskill teams on compliance, internal controls, and audit readiness.

We strive to create an environment where you can prioritise your wellbeing and offer a competitive benefits package to help you do this. We provide an employee assistance programme and are proud to offer a financial wellbeing tool to our employees.

We are committed to equal opportunities across our recruitment activities and have a real commitment to ensuring the inclusion and well-being of all employees. We have a blended approach to working to support our employees to balance the needs of their job with other aspects of their life.

For more information on ACCA, your journey as a candidate and the benefits of working with ACCA please visit our Work for Us page here https://www.accaglobal.com/uk/en/about-us/work-for-us.html.