Head of Payroll

VanRath; Antrim; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in payroll solutions seeks a Head of Payroll to oversee operations across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. This strategic role demands a strong leader with a proven track record in payroll management, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency while driving continuous improvement in processes. The position offers a competitive salary, hybrid working, and a supportive team culture.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

Hybrid working

Inclusive organization

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience in payroll processing.
• Deep knowledge of NI and ROI PAYE systems.
• Proven track record in managing high-volume, complex payroll operations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee full-cycle payroll processing for NI and ROI.
• Ensure timely and accurate pay while maintaining compliance.
• Act as primary contact for payroll-related queries.

Skills

Analytical mindset

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Process improvement

Stakeholder communication

Job description

VANRATH are delighted to be working with a global leader who are searching for the next Head of Payroll.

Are you an experienced payroll professional with a strong record of delivering accurate and compliant payroll operations? Do you thrive on navigating evolving payroll legislation across both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland? This role places you at the heart of payroll leadership, where your expertise will directly support employee experience, compliance, and operational efficiency.

What you'll get

• Be part of a global, inclusive organisation known for innovation and collaboration
• Excellent salary and a comprehensive benefits package
• Hybrid working
• Partner with experienced HR and Finance teams in a supportive, team-oriented culture

What You'll do

As Head of Payroll, you will take overall responsibility for payroll operations across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. You'll ensure timely and accurate pay for employees while maintaining full compliance with tax and legal requirements. Your responsibilities will include:

• Overseeing full-cycle payroll processing for NI and ROI, ensuring accuracy and timeliness
• Authorising payments (BACs/SEPA) and managing submissions to HMRC and Irish Revenue
• Collaborating with HR, Rewards, and third-party consultants on data changes, upgrades, and project initiatives
• Managing payroll reconciliations, journal entries, and reporting for internal stakeholders
• Leading year-end activities including benefit-in-kind (BIK) processing and share scheme reporting
• Acting as the primary point of contact for payroll-related queries, ensuring responsive service
• Supporting financial planning and audits through detailed payroll analysis and forecasting
• Driving continuous improvement, ensuring compliance with policies, controls, and evolving legislation

About you

You're a strategic payroll leader who combines technical expertise with a hands-on approach. You excel under pressure and maintain a strong commitment to compliance and service excellence.

• Minimum 5 years' experience in payroll processing with deep knowledge of NI and ROI PAYE systems
• A proven track record in managing high-volume, complex payroll operations
• Strong analytical mindset with great attention to detail and a problem-solving attitude
• Experience with payroll systems and leading system testing or upgrades
• Ability to work independently, meet tight deadlines, and maintain accuracy
• Skilled in process improvement, change delivery, and stakeholder communication

For further information on this vacancy, or any other Accountancy & Finance job in Belfast or wider Northern Ireland, please apply via the link below or contact Chanel Gillen in the strictest confidence.