Junior Payroll Administrator

Job description

Sitting within the HR function, the Junior Payroll Administrator is responsible for the accurate, efficient, and timely processing of the monthly payroll. The role works closely with HR and Finance Business Partners to ensure all business units receive precise and proactive support. Acting as the primary point of contact for payroll queries, the Junior Payroll Administrator maintains clear communication with Services and BU payroll contacts, ensuring data accuracy throughout each payroll cycle. Beyond monthly operations, the role is accountable for completing all annual, bi-annual, and ad hoc payroll tasks, including the administration of employee benefits. The Junior Payroll Administrator also supports the day-to-day coordination of payroll activities, monitors soft deadlines, and collaborates with the Payroll Manager to finalise and validate monthly payroll results, while assisting with broader HR and payroll requirements. YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES: Payroll Accuracy & Processing Ensure the accurate and timely processing of predominantly Irish retail payrolls while staying as a back up for UK Payroll. Liaise with Services and Business Units/stores to gather and validate monthly data, including hours worked, joiners, leavers, rate changes, and ongoing queries. Review and check components of payslips, including working hours, absences, allowances, store bonuses, and statutory payments/deductions. Monitor submission deadlines rigorously and ensure all required payroll inputs are received on time. Review payroll data during closing periods, proactively identifying discrepancies and resolving issues prior to final processing. Support end-of-employment calculations (exit elements, final payments, outgoing documentation) within legal deadlines. Collaborate with Finance Business Partners and store managers post-payroll to resolve data-related queries promptly. Support & Relationship Management Provide direct, people-first support to store and central team members regarding payslip and payroll queries. Build and maintain strong, collaborative working relationships with managers and key contacts across your scope. Act as a highly accessible and service-driven point of contact, maintaining exceptional written and verbal communication skills. Assist in training store relays on basic personnel and time management tools to support operational autonomy. Contribute to high team satisfaction ratings through outstanding, clear, and proactive customer service. Additional Responsibilities Support the Payroll Manager with ad-hoc reporting, statutory checks, and internal audits. Assist with system checks and user testing for payroll updates or upgrades. Ensure total confidentiality and compliance with GDPR regulations across all employee records and data. THE PROFILE WE'RE LOOKING FOR: Qualifications & Experience (Elibility criteria) Proven Experience: Minimum 3+ years of hands-on experience in payroll administration, with proven experience in UK and Irish Retail payroll processing. Immediate Availability: Available to start immediately (or on very short notice). System Knowledge: Proficiency in payroll & HRIS systems. Experience with SAP HCM / SuccessFactors, and Workday. CIPP Qualification: A CIPP qualification (or working towards it) is a big plus. Who you are: Strong Communicator: Exceptional oral and written communication skills with a customer-centric mindset and active listening skills. Highly Organised: Outstanding organisational and prioritisation skills with a proven ability to manage tight deadlines and competing priorities in a fast-paced retail environment. Detail-Oriented: High attention to detail with strong analytical and problem-solving skills to spot discrepancies early. Sport-Passionate: You have a genuine passion for sport, wellness, or movement in any form and thrive in a high-energy environment. High integrity: A proven track record of handling sensitive, confidential data with absolute integrity and discretion. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: This role is based in our Dublin Office located in Decathlon Ballymun, St. Margaret’s Road, Ballymun, Dublin 11, D11 X2NC, Ireland. You will be required to work 3 times a week in the office, and 2 days per week may be done remotely. Visa sponsorship is not available for this role. Candidates must already be eligible to work in the UK or Ireland. If you're someone who thrives in a dynamic environment, a career at Decathlon could be a great fit. Our welcoming culture, rooted in values of vitality, responsibility, generosity, and authenticity—and brought together by a shared passion for sports—offers a truly enriching experience for everyone. Get to enjoy the following benefits and perks: Hybrid Working options Healthy employee discount on all Decathlon products Weekly Staff Sports/Activities Shareholding Scheme Cycle-to-Work Scheme Generous holiday allowance Intensive Learning and Development training via Decathlon Academy... and many more