3 months contract with a Local Authority
Job Summary:
• The postholder will lead the Payroll Team to ensure the accurate and timely delivery of payroll services in line with current legislation and terms and conditions of employment.
• The role requires strategic oversight of the payroll function and a commitment to continuous improvement, service modernisation, and operational efficiency.
• This is a pivotal role within the wider HR leadership team and will contribute to the development and implementation of cross-functional initiatives with payroll implications.
Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):
• Provide strong leadership and line management for the payroll function.
• Ensure accurate and timely processing of payroll in line with statutory requirements and internal policies.
• Act as the subject matter expert for complex payroll matters such as multiple employments, family leave, sickness absence, pensions, and payments on termination.
• Collaborate with HR recruitment teams to ensure smooth onboarding and accurate payroll setup for new starters.
• Take the lead in implementing new payroll systems or procedures and improving existing processes.
• Manage the relationship and integrations between payroll and HR, pension, and finance systems.
• Develop and oversee pension auto-enrolment processes and ensure full compliance with statutory obligations.
• Lead on internal and external payroll audits and always ensure readiness for scrutiny.
• Produce routine and ad hoc payroll reports for internal and external stakeholders, including HR and finance.
• Participate in HR leadership discussions and act as a key contributor to cross-functional HR projects where payroll expertise is required.
• Supervise the preparation of payroll data and ensure compliance with payroll timetables and BACS processing deadlines.
• Carry out year-end payroll activities and apply agreed pay awards accurately.
• Support the team with day-to-day activities where required and ensure all SLAs and quality standards are met.
• Handle complex and escalated payroll issues and complaints with professionalism and sensitivity.
• Provide advice and information to external bodies such as the DWP and the Crown Prosecution Service and attend court proceedings as necessary.
• Respond to Freedom of Information (FOI) requests and data queries related to payroll.
Skills/Experience:
• Proven experience in managing or supervising a payroll team.
• Strong knowledge of PAYE, NI, and statutory deductions legislation.
• Familiarity with terms and conditions of employment and their application to payroll.
• Proficient in payroll systems and Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to manage high volumes of payroll data with accuracy and efficiency.
• Skilled in resolving complex payroll queries and providing sound guidance to colleagues.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills with the ability to meet tight deadlines.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to engage effectively with staff, managers, and external bodies.
• A high level of integrity and confidentiality in handling sensitive payroll data.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.
Additional Information:
• Hybrid, with regular attendance at your contracted base.
• Holds a professional payroll qualification.