URBN - Head of Payroll, UK and EMEA

URBN UK Limited is part of the URBN Group, a global retailer, with its European Head Office located in London. Its retail offering in Europe takes the form of three brands.

With stores in more than 10 European countries and a strong e-commerce presence, we’re driven by the same core values as our customers, and we approach our work with a sense of community and purpose that sets our brands apart. We love what we do.

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Payroll to lead and manage the payroll function across Europe, who is operationally strong and influential This role is responsible for ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant payroll processing for all employees, while driving continuous improvement in payroll systems, processes, and controls. The ideal candidate will bring deep technical expertise, strong leadership skills, and a proactive approach to managing payroll operations in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. 

• Oversee end-to-end payroll operations for all European and International entities and jurisdictions, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timeliness. 

• Manage multi-entity payroll across over thirteen regions in Europe/APAC, all through outsourced service providers. 

• Oversee the payroll element of business growth through increased headcount and new regions 

• Lead and develop the payroll team (5 people), to foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. 

• Manage relationships with external payroll providers, auditors, and regulatory bodies. 

• Lead the implementation, upgrade, and integration of payroll systems and technology platforms. 

• Drive automation and process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce risk. 

• Collaborate with Finance, HR and IT to optimize payroll systems and integrate with other business functions. 

• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, tax regulations, and internal policies. 

• Stay current with changes in payroll legislation and best practices, advising the business accordingly. 

• Own payroll reporting and analytics, providing insights to senior leadership. 

• Support global expansion from a payroll perspective, including team and systems integration planning. 

• Ensure cost control with service providers and input into the budget process for payroll costs 

• Proven experience in a senior payroll leadership role, ideally within a complex, multi-entity company. 
• Solid knowledge of UK and EMEA payroll legislation (e.g. HMRC reporting, pensions, RI, benefits taxation etc.)

• Strong leadership experience with a record of engaging, developing and mentoring team members

• Proficiency with payroll & HR systems, including time and attendance  

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills – able to liaise and effectively collaborate across multiple departments with stakeholders at all levels

• Analytical thinking skills, able to interpret payroll and financial data, identifying trends and other strategic insights

• CIPP qualification is highly desirable 

Work-life balance:

•  Flexible start and finish times
•  Bring your dog to work

Wellbeing:

•  Employees Assistance program to support with mental, physical and financial health
•  Fully equipped free gym and on-site wellness room in Brick Lane and 50% discount of external gym memberships
•  Private Medical Insurance

Employee Discount:

•  Up to 40% off at all URBN Brands (Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Free People and more!)

Community:

•  One paid day to either volunteer or fundraise for a charity of your choice

 Travel:

•  Cycle to work scheme, season ticket loan

Continued Development:

•  We offer structured support within the business alongside continued learning and development

#LI-GH1 #UrbanEU

URBN is an Equal Opportunities Employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We provide equal employment opportunities regardless of age, sexual orientation, sex, gender reassignment, pregnancy, marital status, religion, race, or disability. We base all our employment decisions on merit, job requirements and business needs.