Senior Compensation and Payroll Specialist

As the exclusive recruitment partner, we are hiring for a payment gateway provider that manages a massive ecosystem of brands and simplifies complex global payments through smart routing, real-time monitoring, and PCI DSS Level 1 security. We are seeking a Senior Compensation and Payroll Specialist based in Portugal to manage our local payroll operations, optimize benefit structures, and eventually transition our payroll function from an external vendor to an in-house model. 📍 Lisbon (on-site, full-time, Monday–Friday) Key Responsibilities Payroll & Vendor Management: Consolidate, validate, and process monthly payroll data (overtime, time-off, KPIs) using HiBob and Excel . Audit deliverables and payslips from the external provider. Tax & C&B Optimization: Research and implement compliant tax-reduction structures for complex fringe benefits (housing, company cars, and school/tuition allowance optimization). Data & Analytics: Maintain localized compensation calculators and ensure data alignment across different contract types. In-housing Project: Map out vendor workflows and lead the strategic transition to an in-house payroll system. Compliance: Act as the local expert on Portuguese labor law, IRS withholdings, and Segurança Social . Requirements 5+ years of payroll and compensation experience in Portugal. Background in top-tier outsourcing/consulting firms or international corporate environments will be plus. Deep understanding of the Portuguese labor code, flexible benefits taxation, and statutory exemptions. Advanced Excel skills and experience with HiBob (or similar HRIS). Professional fluency in English and Portuguese . Must be residing in Portugal and available for office-based work. Perks & Location Learning and development opportunities and interesting, challenging tasks. Relocation package (tickets, staying in a hotel for up to 2 weeks, and visa relocation support for our employees and their family members). Opportunity to develop language skills, with partial compensation for the cost of English and Portuguese language classes (for localization purposes). Partial compensation for tennis and padel lessons. Urban Sport membership benefit (the most diverse sports and wellness offering in Europe, with more than 50+ activities). Private medical coverage, including inpatient, outpatient, dental care, annual check-ups, and maternity support. Time for proper rest, with 24 non-business days per year and an additional 6 paid sick days. Transport compensation - 200 euros net per month. Competitive remuneration level with annual review. Team building activities. ❗️Important: This is an on-site position based in Lisbon. Remote or hybrid work is not available. Candidates must either already be in Lisbon or be willing to relocate. Full relocation support will be provided if necessary.❗️