**Purpose and Scope:** The Payroll Operations Specialist role is to lead and manage end-to-end payroll operations. This role requires advanced payroll knowledge, strong analytical skills, and a deep understanding of compliance, reporting, and payroll systems. The ideal candidate will serve as a subject matter expert, support audits, implement process improvements, and mentor junior team members. **Responsibilities and Accountabilities:** + Process complex, high-volume payroll across multiple locations and jurisdictions + Review and audit payroll reports for accuracy and compliance + Handle escalated payroll inquiries and resolve complex queries + Monitor changes in tax laws and labor regulations to ensure ongoing compliance + Support or lead payroll system upgrades and implementation globally + Mentor and provide guidance to Payroll Advisors + Work with wider People Team to execute all related payroll related activities that impact payroll processes either delivered by HR outsourced vendor or retained service + Own the payroll processes, relevant input and output documentation and supporting tools for the delivery of all in scope services + Accountable for analysing customer requests that cannot be resolved and driving continuous improvements to improve service quality + Drive continuous improvement and manage the impact of change on People Operations by: + Representing People Operations as a SME on projects which look to drive change to the ways of working in Astellas. + Input on the impact of change on our ability to deliver payroll Services + Identify and promote opportunities for continuous improvement. + Build and maintain strong relationships with third parties, line managers, HR teams and employees whilst providing them with the highest level of service for allocated countries + Collaborate and build robust relationships with other business areas/external providers to ensure that the People Operations Team is proactively included in planning activities that affect service or resource requirements. + Supporting role to the Payroll Lead when required, taking ownership, and working autonomously to execute tasks and activities. Deputizing for the Payroll Lead as and when required + Provide back up support to Payroll Advisors + Partner with key stakeholders to update knowledge materials to drive self service + Work in partnership with the Continuous Improvement team to drive and deliver best practice at all levels. + Ability to run reports out of best-in-class HR systems. + Strong knowledge and competence using Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel and PowerPoint + Ability to utilize excel and access to automate the checking of payroll and reporting. **Required skills and Experience** + 5+ years of payroll experience, including multi-state or multi-entity payroll + Experience with international payroll processing + Proven track record of owning regional payrolls & processes + Knowledge of Tax Year End procedures + Project Management experience and proven project lead capabilities + The ability to develop a truly customer centric environment is important as well as experience in high quality operational HR processes that support our business. + Experience of working with an outsourced and in-house HR Services Delivery model is preferable. + Financial acumen + Expertise in MS Office (especially Excel, Access) + Proven ability to influence diverse senior stakeholders. + Fluent in written and verbal business English (add in required languages where needed German and French being Key Languages) + Ability to cope within a fast paced, growing and changing environment. + Strong change management skills. + Able to manage high volumes of work and prioritise effectively. + Demonstrate excellent customer service skills. + Collaborative style with the ability to persuade, influence and negotiate at all levels. + Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify root causes and act accordingly. + Knowledge of Continuous improvement methodology **Preferred Qualifications:** + Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification + Experience with payroll software systems + Experience with benefits administration + Experience in a fast-paced environment + Strong analytical and problem-solving skills + Ability to handle confidential information with discretion **Working Environment** **Astellas’ Global Capability Centres – Overview** _Astellas’ Global Capability Centres (GCCs) are strategically located sites that give Astellas the ability to access talent across various functions in the value chain and to co-locate core capabilities that are currently dispersed._ _​_ _Our three GCCs are located in India, Poland and Mexico._ _​_ _​_ _The GCCs will enhance our operational efficiency, resilience and innovation potential, enabling a timely response to changing business demands._ _​_ _​_ _Our GCCs are an integral part of Astellas, guided by our shared values and behaviors, and are critical enablers of the company’s strategic priorities, sustainable growth, and commitment to turn innovative science into VALUE for patients._ Category Astellas is committed to equality of opportunity in all aspects of employment. EOE including Disability/Protected Veterans