Manager/ Senior Manager - Payroll Advisory

Sydney, NSW, AU, 2000

Company: McGrathNicol

Division: Advisory

Department: Deals & Performance

Employment Type: Full Time Permanent

Application Closing Date: 3 July 2026

McGrathNicol is an independent professional services firm specialising in Cyber, Deals, Forensic, Performance, Restructuring, and Risk & Compliance. For more than 20 years, we have supported organisations to navigate critical moments, from growth and transformation through to financial stress and uncertainty, across the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. Guided by our values – Understanding, Commitment and Impact – we are client-focused, collaborative and committed to creating an environment where our people can do their best work and continue to grow their careers.

The Opportunity

We are seeking a Manager / Senior Manager to join our Deals and Performance team, specialising in Payroll Advisory. In this role, you will lead the delivery of payroll advisory engagements across a range of sectors, working closely with clients and senior internal stakeholders.

You will play a key role in reviewing and optimising payroll operating models, leading payroll system transformations, and advising on complex wage underpayment and compliance matters. You will collaborate closely with the broader Deals and Performance and Data Analytics teams to deliver practical, high-quality outcomes for clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of Payroll Advisory engagements across a range of sectors, taking ownership of project outcomes and client relationships.
• Provide subject matter expertise on payroll compliance, practical interpretation of awards and enterprise agreements, and payroll best practice.
• Review and assess payroll operating models, processes and controls, identifying opportunities for improvement and risk mitigation.
• Lead payroll system implementations and transformations, including project management, stakeholder coordination and testing oversight.
• Build and maintain strong, trusted relationships with clients and internal stakeholders.
• Prepare and review high-quality client deliverables, including reports, insights and presentations.
• Mentor and support junior team members, contributing to capability development within the team.
• Work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams to deliver commercial, practical outcomes within agreed timeframes.

About You

• Strong written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to engage confidently with senior stakeholders.
• Proven stakeholder management capability, with a client focused, advisory mindset.
• High attention to detail and a strong commitment to quality and accuracy.
• Well organised, adaptable and able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• A collaborative leader who enjoys mentoring others and contributing to team success.
• Committed to continuous learning and ongoing professional development.

Qualifications And Experience

• Minimum 5+ years’ experience in payroll, with strong technical and operational exposure.
• Experience in a professional services or advisory environment (highly desirable).
• Demonstrated experience leading payroll compliance, remediation or system transformation projects.
• Payroll specific qualifications or certifications (e.g. Australian Payroll Association) advantageous.
• Strong exposure to Time and Attendance and payroll systems.

Why Join Us?

At McGrathNicol, you’ll thrive in an empowering environment where your expertise drives real impact. We offer a competitive annual bonus program, alongside exceptional training and career development opportunities. Our inclusive culture fosters growth through personalised mentorship. You’ll also benefit from comprehensive support such as 26 weeks parental leave, additional leave options, employee assistance, health and wellbeing programs, and opportunities for social and community engagement. Join us and be part of a team that values your contributions and supports your success.

Interested?

To apply for this exciting opportunity please click the ‘APPLY NOW’ button at the top of this page. If you would like further information, please contact our national HR team at ***email_hidden***.