Payroll Specialist at Kao in Melbourne, Victoria, AU

Kao is built on a strong heritage of innovation and a cultural philosophy to always walk the right path. With over 130 years of experience, we’ve become a global leader in the FMCG industry, committed to providing care and enrichment to both people and the planet. Behind iconic brands like Bondi Sands, Bioré, John Frieda, Bio-Oil, Curel, Biozet Attack, Goldwell, and KMS, we’re making everyday routines feel extraordinary.

An exciting opportunity now exists for our passionate Payroll Specialist to join our AUNZ team.

What is the role?

Play an integral role in owning and delivering end to end payroll across Australia and New Zealand. As our go to payroll expert, you will lead the full payroll lifecycle, from processing through to compliance, reporting, and continuous improvement.

This is a hands on role suited to a true payroll gun who thrives on system management, enjoys solving problems, and is passionate about delivering a seamless employee experience. You’ll partner closely with Finance, HR, and external providers, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and efficiency across all payroll processes.

Key responsibilities:

• Own end to end payroll processing across ANZ (fortnightly) via ADP (AU) and Polyglot (NZ), including commissions and bonus processes
• Manage all payroll related statutory obligations including Payroll Tax, Superannuation, Workers Compensation, salary packaging (novated leases), and FBT requirements
• Liaise with third-party providers (ADP & Polyglot) to ensure compliance, system updates, and testing are effectively managed
• Collaborate with HR and global Workday specialists to test and maintain system integrations between Workday and payroll systems
• Provide payroll data, reporting, and insights to Finance and HR, supporting reconciliations, general ledger alignment, and audit requirements (internal and external)
• Act as the first point of contact for payroll queries, supporting employees and managers with a responsive and solutions-focused approach
• Identify and drive process improvements to enhance payroll efficiency, accuracy, and user experience
• Support payroll-related projects and continuous improvement initiatives as required

So, who are you?

You are a detail driven Payroll Specialist who takes pride in owning your space and delivering accurate, compliant payroll outcomes. You are systems savvy, proactive, and known for your ability to simplify complexity and solve problems with confidence with strong Excel capability including VLOOKUPs and pivot tables to support data accuracy and reporting.

With at least 5 years experience in payroll and demonstrated ability to manage end to end payroll, you bring a strong understanding of payroll legislation and compliance requirements. You are comfortable working with payroll systems such as ADP with exposure to Workday is highly regarded.

You are highly collaborative and committed to delivering a positive employee experience. You enjoy building relationships across the business and are always looking for ways to improve processes and drive efficiencies.

Most of all, you bring ownership, curiosity, and a continuous improvement mindset..

Our offer to you

Based in our primary office in East Malvern, you will join a collaborative, and dedicated hybrid team. You will be rewarded with a competitive salary package, great learning & development programs, health & wellbeing initiatives & leave benefits (including 16 weeks parental leave for the primary carer!), discounted products, a glowing culture & team, and the rare opportunity to contribute your expertise to market leading brands!

Do you have what it takes? Apply now!

Kao Corporation is committed to creating a diverse workplace that provides an equal opportunity for all. We value talent of diverse backgrounds and experiences at Kao and encourage all to apply to become a part of our global journey.