Head of Payroll

Wade Macdonald; Uxbridge; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruitment firm is looking for a Head of Payroll in Uxbridge. The successful candidate will oversee payroll operations for over 1,300 employees, ensuring compliance with regulations and accuracy in processes. Key responsibilities include managing the outsourced payroll service, supervising a payroll team, and conducting year-end processes. Essential qualifications include over five years’ experience in payroll, knowledge of UK legislation, and strong IT skills. Benefits include 37 days off, pension scheme access, and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

37 days annual leave

Access to a local government pension scheme

Wellbeing support including therapy

Free gym use

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Minimum of five years' experience in payroll, ideally within the education sector.
• Deep understanding of defined benefit pension schemes.
• Meticulous approach with the ability to manage competing deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Managing and overseeing the outsourced payroll service for accurate payments.
• Acting as the primary contact for payroll matters with HMRC and pension providers.
• Leading year-end processes including pension returns and P60s.

Skills

Payroll management

Knowledge of UK payroll legislation

IT and Excel skills

Communication skills

Job description

Head of Payroll - Uxbridge - £55,000 / £60,000 - Hybrid working

About the Client

Wade Macdonald are working with a large and well-established organisation within the Education sector. With multiple sites and a sizeable workforce, they are committed to maintaining high standards of service delivery and operational excellence. They cultivate a supportive atmosphere where mentorship and professional development are central to their mission.

About the Job

This is a key role within the finance function, reporting to the Finance Director and overseeing all aspects of payroll for a workforce of over 1,300 employees. You will be the primary contact for managing the outsourced payroll bureau, ensuring compliance with HMRC and pension regulations, and producing essential payroll data for internal and external stakeholders. The role also involves working closely with HR and Finance to ensure accuracy and efficiency across payroll operations.

Duties will include:

• Managing and overseeing the outsourced payroll service to ensure accurate and timely payments.
• Acting as the primary contact for internal payroll matters and external bodies, including HMRC and pension providers.
• Supervising and appraising a small payroll team.
• Reviewing payroll data, deductions, and amendments in line with policy and authorising payments.
• Leading on year-end processes including pension returns, P60s, and benefit reporting.
• Supporting system testing and upgrades, particularly around statutory pay and annual uplifts.
• Providing payroll reporting and data analysis for audit, budgeting, and forecasting purposes.
• Ensuring deadlines are met for payments to third parties and responding to data requests.
• Participating in inductions, offering payroll and pension guidance to new staff.

About the Successful Applicant

You will have at least five years’ experience in payroll, ideally within education, the public sector, or a similarly complex environment. A deep understanding of defined benefit pension schemes, strong IT and Excel skills, and up-to-date knowledge of UK payroll legislation are essential. You’ll need excellent communication skills, a meticulous approach, and the ability to manage competing deadlines with accuracy.

What You Will Receive in Return

37 days annual leave (plus bank holidays and Christmas closure), access to a local government pension scheme, and opportunities for salary progression following annual appraisals. You'll also have access to wellbeing support, including 1:1 therapy, an employee assistance programme, and free gym use. Professional development is supported.