Job Description CEG: 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. Responsibilities In this role, the Payroll Specialist will report to the 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. Key Responsibilities Include
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
Qualifications
2–3+ 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 Italian and English Strong customer service mindset and responsiveness
Employment eligibility to work with American Express in Italy is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions. Benefits
Competitive base salaries Bonus incentives Support for financial-well-being and retirement Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability benefits (depending on location) Flexible working model with hybrid, onsite or virtual arrangements depending on role and business need Generous paid parental leave policies (depending on your location) Free access to global on-site wellness centers staffed with nurses and doctors (depending on location) Free and confidential counseling support through our Healthy Minds program Career development and training opportunities
Offer of employment with American Express is conditioned upon the successful completion of a background verification check, subject to applicable laws and regulations. #J-18808-Ljbffr