Wilmar Sugar Australia is part of Wilmar International, a leading global agribusiness with around 100,000 employees working across more than 30 countries and regions.
Across Australia and New Zealand, we operate two major business units, Sugar & Renewables and Sweeteners, employing 2,400+ people during peak/ seasonal operations with corporate offices in Melbourne, Brisbane, Townsville and Auckland.
As Australia's largest raw sugar manufacturer and a top 10 global producer, Wilmar Sugar & Renewables runs eight sugar mills across North Queensland.
We are also one of the nation's largest generators of renewable electricity from biomass, a major producer of bioethanol, the largest sugarcane grower, and a key supplier of sustainable fertiliser and stockfeed.
About The Role
As the Payroll Manager, you will lead payroll operations across a large and complex workforce, ensuring employees are paid accurately, on time, and in line with legislative, enterprise agreement, and company requirements.
Leading a capable payroll team in a fast-paced operational workplace, you will oversee payroll compliance, reporting, governance, and continuous improvement initiatives across multiple sites and a diverse workforce of salaried and wages employees.
You'll work closely with People & Culture, Finance, and operational leaders to drive efficient payroll processes, manage risk, and deliver a high level of service and support across the business.
Just as importantly, you will play a key role in developing team capability, improving systems and processes, and fostering a culture built on accuracy, accountability, and collaboration.
You will be joining a supportive and down-to-earth corporate team with genuine career development opportunities,



and a strong appreciation for Tropical Shirt Fridays.
Role Responsibilities
Lead and support the payroll team, building capability, accountability, and strong service delivery
Manage end to end payroll operations across a large and diverse workforce
Ensure payroll compliance with legislation, awards, enterprise agreements, taxation, and superannuation requirements
Oversee payroll reporting, reconciliations, audits, and year end processes
Drive payroll process improvements, efficiencies, and system enhancements
Work closely with People & Culture, Finance, and operational leaders to resolve payroll matters and provide expert advice
Support payroll governance and risk management activities to ensure accurate and compliant payroll outcomes
Lead continuous improvement initiatives that enhance employee experience and payroll performance
About You
Essential
Demonstrated experience in a senior payroll leadership role within a large and complex organisation
Strong knowledge of Australian payroll legislation, taxation, superannuation, awards, and enterprise agreements
Proven experience managing payroll compliance, reporting, and audit requirements
Experience leading and developing payroll teams in a high-volume environment
Strong stakeholder management and problem-solving skills




High attention to detail with the ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines
Desirable
Experience within manufacturing, industrial, agriculture, mining, or other complex operational environments
Working knowledge of SAP Payroll or related HRIS/payroll systems
Experience managing payroll process improvement or systems implementation projects
Understanding of seasonal workforce or multi-site payroll operations
Relevant tertiary qualification in Business, Finance, Human Resources, or related discipline
Why work for Wilmar
We want people who take pride in their work, enjoy building connections, and value opportunities to grow their career in a dynamic, future-focused organisation.
As a Wilmar employee, you will enjoy:
Salary Sacrificing & Packaging – Options for super, novated leases and other eligible benefits
Novated Vehicle Leasing (Fleetplus) – Flexible, affordable lease and maintenance options
Superannuation – 14.5% super contribution, exclusive member benefits through the Wilmar Super Plan
Corporate Discounts & Rewards – Savings on fuel, tech, travel, and major retail brands
Health & Wellbeing – EAP, Medibank Corporate Cover, and eyewear discounts
Travel & Lifestyle – Discounts on car hire, hotels, and flights to help you recharge
Recognition & Workplace Giving – Milestone service awards, Values Awards and Charity Giving options available
Recruitment Process
Please note that if you are moving forward in the process, Wilmar requires employees to complete a Drug/Alcohol and medical assessments.
Due to the nature of this role a National Police Check will need to be completed.
Wilmar is an equal opportunity employer.
Business unit Corporate

📌 Payroll Manager - Townsville
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📍 Townsville