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.