Head of Payroll

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Are you a payroll compliance powerhouse with deep award interpretation and termination expertise? Do you know KeyPay/Employment Hero Payroll inside-out and thrive in fast-paced outsourced environments? We're looking for a leader who isn't just "good at payroll"—we want someone to take the reins, unify payroll and HR delivery, and drive growth in a team with huge untapped potential.

About the Role

This is a pivotal role at the centre of Lucent Advisory's Payroll & HR division. You'll bring technical mastery, strategic leadership, and a commercial edge to oversee our outsourced services. From complex payroll compliance and modern award interpretation through to contract law, HR advice, and client onboarding, you'll be the key escalation point and trusted expert for both clients and internal teams.

This role is remote-first, giving you the flexibility to work from anywhere, or you can be based at our Head Office in Adelaide. You'll work alongside Payroll Specialists and HR Advisors, shaping best practice, enhancing Employment Hero/KeyPay utilisation, and building a culture of continuous improvement. This is a rare opportunity to embed yourself at the heart of a growing business and make your mark.

What You'll Do

• Lead & Inspire – Integrate and unify payroll and HR teams, cultivating collaboration and high performance.
• Compliance Authority – Own payroll compliance, legislative risk, and HR contract law obligations across diverse client portfolios.
• Award & Termination Expertise – Interpret complex awards and enterprise agreements, and manage complex terminations with precision.
• System Mastery – Leverage Employment Hero Payroll (KeyPay) expertise to optimise system use, troubleshoot issues, and embed efficiencies.
• Client Onboarding & Service – Act as the lead for client onboarding, ensuring seamless transitions and exceptional outsourced service delivery.
• Commercial Growth – Drive divisional profitability, monitor budgets, and identify opportunities for cross-selling and upselling.
• Mentor & Develop – Build team capability through training, coaching, and knowledge-sharing, ensuring we stay ahead of industry change.

What We're Looking For

• Deep expertise in Australian payroll compliance, modern awards, and termination processes.
• Advanced experience with Employment Hero Payroll (KeyPay).
• Strong background in outsourced payroll/HR or professional services.
• Working knowledge of HR responsibilities including contract law and legislative compliance.
• Exceptional leadership, with a proven track record in managing and growing teams.
• Financial acumen and commercial focus to support ambitious growth goals.
• Pragmatic problem-solver who thrives in a fast-paced, scaling environment.

Why Join Us?

• Be the compliance anchor and strategic leader in a growing team with ambitious goals.
• Join a supportive, collaborative environment where your expertise has impact.
• Competitive remuneration, clear career path, and professional development opportunities.
• Shape the future of a division with huge untapped potential.

At Lucent Advisory, we illuminate smarter business by integrating Finance, Payroll, and HR. If you're ready to take control, ride the growth wave with us, and make your mark, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today via Seek and include your resume and a cover letter outlining why this role is perfect for you

Salary match Number of applicants Skills match

Your application will include the following questions:

• Do you have fulltime work rights to work in Australia? What are your salary expectations? Do you have deep expertise in Australian payroll compliance, modern awards, and termination processes? Which Payroll & HRIS platforms have you worked with? Do you have experience with Employment Hero Payroll / Keypay Platform? Do you have strong background in outsourced payroll/HR or professional services? Do you have a proven track record in managing and growing teams? What is your notice period?

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