About the role
Viking (NYSE: VIK) is a global leader in experiential travel with a fleet of more than 100 ships, exploring 21 rivers, five oceans and all seven continents. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Executive Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences For The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 450 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers and #1 for Oceans five years in a row by Condé Nast Traveler in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking is also rated a “World’s Best” by Travel + Leisure—no other travel company has simultaneously received such honors by both publications.
Please note that we can only accept applicants who are eligible to work in Switzerland or in possession of a valid work permit.
ROLE DESCRIPTION
The Payroll Manager is responsible for the end‑to‑end German payroll process for approximately 700 employees.
The role reports to the Senior Payroll Manager and will also serve as a temporary assignment.
The position is based at our Operational Headquarters in Basel, Switzerland.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Responsible for the monthly payroll run in SAP and SuccessFactors
Recording and reviewing ongoing wage changes in master data and variable payroll data
Verification of master data for new hires, departures, and changes
Monthly reports to health insurance, social security institutions, as well as the relevant tax office
Reporting accident reports to the relevant employers' liability insurance association
Communication with authorities and insurance companies, including preparation of employer certificates
Handling and responding to all payroll‑related inquiries
Assessment of employment relationships regarding social security, particularly for new hires
Monthly preparation of payroll‑related reports
Identify and resolve system-related issues, coordinate with the payroll support team by opening and tracking tickets and testing implemented system changes
Providing data for social security and tax audits
Supporting the team in various administrative tasks as well as HR projects and process improvements
KEY QUALIFICATIONS
Several years of professional experience in German Payroll
Advanced knowledge in German wage tax, social security regulations and labor law
Strong skills in MS‑Office, with a particular focus on Excel (e.g. Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP, data analysis …)
Advanced experience with SAP
Strong affinity for the technical aspects of SAP, with a proactive mindset toward problem-solving and system optimization
Fluent in German and English, both written and spoken
Independent, precise and reliable way of working
Committed, flexible and team-oriented personality
EDUCATION
Completed commercial education and further training in payroll / social insurance or at least 6 years of professional experience in Payroll
NICE TO HAVE QUALIFICATIONS
Experience in German Payroll within an international environment
Experience with SuccessFactors
CULTURE & BENEFITS
Fast-growing and dynamic environment, a modern workspace, flexible working hours
HOW TO APPLY
Please apply via our website www.vikingcareers.com , including your CV in English and a one-page cover letter to introduce yourself and your interest for the role.
*Unsolicited submissions of candidates from agencies will not be considered*