HR Lead – Southern Africa & Payroll Shared Services

About the role

Enko Education is seeking an HR Lead for Southern Africa who will also head the implementation and management of a Payroll Shared Service Center (SSC) across several countries. The role combines strategic payroll centralisation with hands‑on HR support for our Southern Hemisphere entities, including a private school in South Africa.

Key responsibilities

• Design, structure and roll‑out the Group’s Payroll Shared Service Center to centralise payroll operations.
• Define, harmonise and implement group‑wide payroll processes, ensuring automation, efficiency and compliance with local regulations.
• Identify, deploy and manage payroll software solutions and external vendors.
• Establish control systems, conduct regular payroll audits and set KPIs to guarantee accuracy and compliance.
• Coordinate HR operations for 2‑4 Southern Hemisphere countries and act as the proximity HR Business Partner for Amazing Grace Private School.
• Partner with school directors on talent acquisition, onboarding and employee relations, including performance tracking and disciplinary actions.
• Foster a healthy work environment aligned with Enko Education’s culture and values.
• Conduct audits of school HR practices, identify gaps and deliver training to strengthen managerial HR capabilities.

Required profile

• Proven experience in HR management with a strong focus on payroll operations.
• Successful track record in setting up or managing a payroll shared service in a multi‑country environment.
• Ability to work independently, be assertive and thrive in complex, cross‑border settings.
• Excellent communication skills and capacity to act as a trusted business partner.

Required skills

• Deep technical expertise in payroll systems and international HR project management.
• Experience with payroll process standardisation, vendor management and compliance auditing.