Payroll Specialist

The Colleague Experience Group (CEG) is responsible for all colleague-related benefits and programs globally, including career growth and development, leadership and learning, total rewards and well-being, recruitment, labor relations, colleague servicing, and more. CEG’s vision is to provide the best colleague experience every day to fuel growth, and they are committed to ensuring all of Team Amex has the resources and support they need to be and deliver their best.
In this role, the Payroll Specialist will report to the EMEA Payroll Manager and be part of the Colleague Servicing Team (CS). You will play a key role in delivering accurate, compliant, and timely payroll across multiple EMEA markets, ensuring an exceptional experience for colleagues.
You will be responsible for executing payroll processes end-to-end, partnering with internal stakeholders and external vendors, and driving continuous improvement across payroll operations. This role requires strong payroll expertise, attention to detail, and the ability to operate effectively in a dynamic, evolving environment.
3–5 years of experience in payroll processing or related field, ideally within a multi-country EMEA environment
Strong knowledge of payroll processes, statutory requirements, and tax regulations
High attention to detail and accuracy with strong analytical skills
Proven problem-solving and troubleshooting capabilities
Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building skills
Ability to work collaboratively and influence across teams
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Strong oral and written skills in English
Strong customer service mindset and responsiveness
Employment eligibility to work with American Express in Spain is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions.
Process and validate payroll inputs (salary changes, variable pay, absences, benefits)
Perform detailed payroll reconciliations and validations to ensure accuracy and compliance
Execute and support end-to-end payroll cycles, including pre- and post-payroll activities
Act as the primary point of contact for payroll vendors, ensuring SLAs, timelines, and service quality are met
Manage and resolve colleague payroll queries with a strong customer service focus
Coordinate and support the completion of local market tax filings and statutory reporting
Prepare payroll reports, monthly metrics, and support month-end and year-end close activities
Ensure compliance with local legislation, internal controls, and audit requirements
Maintain and enhance SOPs, controls, and payroll documentation
Partner with CEG, Controllership, and external vendors to ensure seamless payroll operations
Identify opportunities for process improvement, standardisation, and automation
Manage multiple priorities effectively in a fast-paced environment
Support internal and external audits as a payroll subject matter expert
Drive a high standard of service and colleague experience across payroll processes

Work arrangement
Hybrid