Payroll Manager Job Description

Job Title: Payroll Manager
Location: [Insert Location]
Job Type: [Full-Time / Permanent]
Department: Finance / HR
Reports To: Head of Finance / HR Director

Job Overview:

We are seeking an experienced and highly organized Payroll Manager to lead our payroll operations and ensure the accurate and timely payment of employee wages. This role is pivotal in maintaining compliance with current legislation, managing payroll systems, and providing guidance to the payroll team. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of payroll processing, managing third-party relationships, and contributing to the continuous improvement of payroll processes.

This position requires a strong understanding of payroll legislation, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to manage multiple deadlines. You will be the go-to expert for all payroll-related matters, ensuring a seamless and efficient payroll function within the organization.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the end-to-end payroll process for all employees, ensuring timely and accurate payments.

• Manage and supervise the payroll team, providing leadership, training, and performance management.

• Ensure compliance with all statutory requirements including tax, National Insurance, pensions, and other deductions.

• Liaise with HMRC and other external bodies regarding payroll-related submissions and queries.

• Maintain and update payroll policies, ensuring they align with current legislation and internal procedures.

• Work closely with HR and Finance to ensure alignment on employee data, compensation, and reporting.

• Manage payroll systems and oversee any upgrades, integrations, or transitions to new platforms.

• Oversee the preparation and distribution of payslips, P60s, P45s, P11Ds, and other relevant documentation.

• Conduct regular audits of payroll records to identify and correct discrepancies or errors.

• Develop and deliver payroll reports and metrics to senior management, including cost analysis and forecasting.

• Ensure GDPR compliance and maintain the confidentiality of employee data at all times.

• Support internal and external audits by providing necessary documentation and explanations.

• Lead or contribute to payroll-related projects, including process improvements and system enhancements.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Proven experience in a payroll management or senior payroll role.

• Strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation and compliance requirements.

• Proficiency in using payroll systems (e.g., Sage, ADP, Xero, or similar) and Microsoft Excel.

• Excellent attention to detail and analytical skills.

• Strong leadership and team management abilities.

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for liaising with employees, senior management, and external stakeholders.

• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and integrity.

• Experience in managing payroll for multiple entities or large employee groups is advantageous.

• CIPP qualification (or equivalent) is desirable.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.

• Leadership role within a supportive and forward-thinking organization.

• Opportunities for professional development and further training.

• Flexible working options (where applicable).

• Pension scheme, holiday entitlement, and additional employee perks.

If you are a confident payroll professional looking for your next leadership opportunity, we would love to hear from you. Join our team and take charge of delivering a best-in-class payroll service that supports the success and wellbeing of our workforce.

To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter outlining your experience and suitability for the role.