Head Of Payroll And Pensions

Public Sector Recruitment; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A public sector organization is seeking an experienced Head of Payroll and Pensions to oversee payroll for 6,000 employees and manage pensions for over 28,000 members in London. This senior role requires extensive experience in payroll and pensions management, knowledge of LGPS regulations, and strong leadership skills. The successful candidate will also ensure compliance with legislation and drive service improvements. This is a permanent, full-time position with a hybrid work model, involving two days in the office each week.

Qualifications

• Extensive senior-level experience in payroll and pensions management, preferably in local government.
• Strong knowledge of LGPS regulations and payroll legislation.
• Proven leadership and team development skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the payroll and pensions teams, ensuring efficiency and excellent service.
• Manage payroll (Oracle Cloud) and pensions (Altair) systems.
• Provide expert advice on payroll and pension legislation.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Education

Relevant degree or professional payroll/pensions qualification

Tools

Oracle Cloud

Altair

Job description

Head of Payroll and Pensions

Location: Lewisham, London

Salary: £79,629 per annum

Contract Type: Permanent, Full-Time, Hybrid – 2 days in the office

About the Role

One of our clients is seeking an experienced Head of Payroll and Pensions to lead their payroll and pension services. This senior role oversees payroll for 6,000 employees and manages the pensions for over 28,000 members. Successful candidate will lead a high‑performing team, ensure compliance with legislation, and drive service improvements across the borough.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the payroll and pensions teams, ensuring efficiency and excellent service.
• Manage payroll (Oracle Cloud) and pensions (Altair) systems, including legacy and archived data.
• Provide expert advice on payroll and pension legislation, including LGPS regulations and Pensions Acts.
• Oversee external contracts, including LGPS actuaries, and manage schools’ payroll SLA services.
• Ensure compliance with statutory deadlines, internal controls, and audit requirements.
• Represent our client on pension boards, committees, and external forums.

What We're Looking For

• Extensive senior‑level experience in payroll and pensions management, preferably in local government.
• Strong knowledge of LGPS regulations and payroll legislation.
• Proven leadership and team development skills.
• Excellent communication, analytical, and problem‑solving abilities.
• Relevant degree or professional payroll/pensions qualification or equivalent experience.

Apply now and shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Closing Date: 09/01/2026