Payroll Manager, Shared Services Germany

JOB SUMMARY

The Payroll Manager, Shared Services Germany, is responsible for the operational leadership, service delivery, and continuous improvement of the payroll processes executed within the German Shared Services Center (SSC). The role ensures accurate, timely, and compliant payroll execution for select hotel and above property entities across Germany while maintaining strong partnerships with internal stakeholders and external service providers. The Payroll Manager oversees a team of payroll and workforce management professionals, provides subject-matter guidance, ensures governance and payroll controls, and collaborates closely with HR and Finance representatives within the legal entities. Local HR/Finance teams remain responsible for employee data maintenance and input while the SSC manages centralized processing and quality assurance.

What This Role Offers

• Leadership responsibility for a central payroll function supporting ~2,800 employees across 19 entities.
• This role has 3 x direct reports.
• Collaboration with EMEA wide teams.
• Opportunities to influence systems, processes, and the future payroll operating model.

SCOPE

• Location: Eschborn, Germany
• Language Requirements: High proficiency (speaking, reading and writing) in German and English is required.
• Travel Requirements: There is expected to be a small component of business travel (less than 5% business travel required.)
• Right to Work: Applicants must have the legal right to work in Germany at the time of application. Unfortunately, this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship or relocation assistance.
• Hybrid policy: Office presence is required 2 to 3 days a week per the current policy.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Payroll Processing: Lead and oversee end-to-end payroll processes for 2,750 employees across select entities. Ensure timely, accurate, and compliant payroll cycles. Monitor payroll outputs, controls, audits, and exceptions. Maintain strong quality assurance and risk mitigation frameworks.
• Team Leadership & Development: Lead, develop, and coach the SSC Germany team. Oversee workload planning, performance management, and capability building.
• Relationship Management: Act as the key contact for external payroll providers. Manage relationships with auditors, tax authorities, and social security bodies. Maintain strong partnerships with HR and Finance teams across the legal entities.
• Governance, Compliance & Controls: Ensure full compliance with German payroll laws, tax and social security regulations. Maintain internal controls and governance processes. Lead and support internal and external audits. Ensure GDPR and information security compliance.
• Systems, Data & Testing: Oversee payroll systems, time management tools, and various interfaces with HRIS and financial applications. Lead system testing. Coordinate defect reporting and resolution with technical teams.
• Training & Documentation: Facilitate payroll system–related training for end users, including the creation, updating, and maintenance of training materials, user guides, and process documentation to support effective and compliant payroll operations.
• Continuous Improvement & Standardization: Drive optimization and automation of payroll processes. Support EMEA-wide payroll projects and harmonization efforts.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• Education & Experience:
  • Considerable experience in German payroll operations within a shared services or multi-entity environment.
  • Proven leadership experience.
  • Strong knowledge of German tax, social security, and statutory obligations.
• Technical Skills:
  • Strong payroll system knowledge, including workforce/time management tools and HRIS integrations. Experience with SAP Payroll is a plus.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
  • Fluent in German and English.
• Competencies:
  • Communicates effectively, both orally and in writing; listens to others and effectively comprehends information; creates an environment allowing timely information flows throughout the organization.
  • High accuracy, analytical ability, and problem-solving capability.
  • Ability to work under pressure with multiple deadlines.
  • Strong integrity and respect for data confidentiality.

WHY JOIN MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL?

Marriott International has been recognized as one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For™ in Europe 2025 by Great Place to Work®.
This is a reflection of our people-first culture, commitment to wellbeing, and collaborative workplace. This accolade joins a growing list of regional honors, reinforcing our dedication to creating an exceptional environment where associates thrive.

Marriott International is an equal opportunity employer. We believe in hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive, people-first culture. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, such as disability and veteran status, or any other basis covered under applicable law.

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