Payroll Controller (Maternity Leave cover)

we are seeking a hands-on Temporary Payroll Manager to manage and oversee payroll operations during a parental-leave replacement assignment of at least 12 months. The role will own the accuracy, timeliness, confidentiality, and compliance of payroll activities in Israel and support payroll coordination for employees in additional countries.
This role is responsible for the full payroll cycle, from collecting and validating inputs through processing, review, reporting, and post-payroll reconciliation. The successful candidate will partner closely with Finance, People, managers, employees, payroll providers, and other external partners to resolve issues quickly and maintain a reliable payroll operation throughout the assignment.
The role requires strong technical payroll knowledge, sound judgment, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to operate independently in a dynamic, international environment.
What you will do:
Own the complete monthly payroll cycle for Israel, ensuring 100% accuracy in preparation, validation, and execution.
Collect and review payroll inputs, including salary updates, bonuses, commissions, equity data, attendance, and new hires/terminations.
Ensure accurate execution of tax withholding, social benefits, pension contributions, and all statutory obligations.
Perform post-payroll controls, including analytical reviews, variance checks, general ledger (GL) entries, and bank payment uploads.
Serve as a highly responsive, trusted point of contact for employee payroll inquiries, resolving issues promptly and professionally.
Coordinate international payroll activities and manage the ongoing administration of Deel (Employer of Record platform).
Oversee travel-related reimbursements and expense reports in accordance with company policies.
Ensure strict compliance with local regulations and support internal and external financial audits.