Payroll Specialist
Madrid, Spain (Hybrid)·People & HR·Added 4 days ago
American Express
26 open roles
What they offer
Hybrid
Office and home days — the ad has the split.
What they ask for
Have the right to work in Spain
American Express doesn't mention sponsorship in the ad.
Work in English
English is required, per the ad.
Be near Madrid, Spain (Hybrid) for hybrid days
No relocation package mentioned.
Have 3+ years of experience
Mid-level role.
Pulled from the advert automatically — the full ad is what counts.
What you'll do
- Process and validate payroll inputs (salary changes, variable pay, absences, benefits)
- Perform detailed payroll reconciliations and validations to ensure accuracy and compliance
- Execute and support end-to-end payroll cycles, including pre- and post-payroll activities
- Act as the primary point of contact for payroll vendors, ensuring SLAs, timelines, and service quality are met
- Manage and resolve colleague payroll queries with a strong customer service focus
- Coordinate and support the completion of local market tax filings and statutory reporting
- Prepare payroll reports, monthly metrics, and support month-end and year-end close activities
- Ensure compliance with local legislation, internal controls, and audit requirements
- Maintain and enhance SOPs, controls, and payroll documentation
- Partner with CEG, Controllership, and external vendors to ensure seamless payroll operations
- Identify opportunities for process improvement, standardisation, and automation
- Manage multiple priorities effectively in a fast-paced environment
- Support internal and external audits as a payroll subject matter expert
- Drive a high standard of service and colleague experience across payroll processes
What we're looking for
- 3-5 years of experience in payroll processing or related field, ideally within a multi-country EMEA environment
- Strong knowledge of payroll processes, statutory requirements, and tax regulations
- High attention to detail and accuracy with strong analytical skills
- Proven problem-solving and troubleshooting capabilities
- Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building skills
- Ability to work collaboratively and influence across teams
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Strong oral and written skills in English
- Strong customer service mindset and responsiveness
Visa & relocation
Employment eligibility to work with American Express in Spain is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions.