Head of Payroll & Pensions

Neway International Ltd; Greater London; On-site; GBP 79,000 - 92,000; Full time

Job summary

A recruiting agency is seeking an experienced Head of Payroll & Pensions for Lewisham Council. This strategic role involves overseeing a £170m payroll and managing the local government pension scheme. The successful candidate will lead teams, ensure compliance with regulations, and provide strategic advice on pensions. Requirements include substantial experience in payroll and pensions, strong leadership skills, and expertise in relevant systems like Oracle Payroll. A relevant degree or qualification is essential, along with a commitment to equality and diversity.

Qualifications

• Significant senior-level experience managing payroll and pensions functions.
• Strong knowledge of LGPS regulations and pensions legislation.
• Proven leadership and team development skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage payroll and pensions administration teams.
• Ensure compliance with LGPS regulations and HMRC requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement and customer-focused service delivery.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Analytical skills

Communication

Problem-solving

Education

Relevant degree or professional payroll/pensions qualification (MCIPPdip)

Tools

Oracle Payroll

Altair Pension system

Job description

Neway International are seeking a Head of Payroll & Pensions (Interim to Permanent) to join our client Lewisham Council.

Location: 1 Catford Road, Catford, London, SE6 4RU

Hours: Full-time (minimum 2 days per week in the office)

Start Date: 02 March 2026 Salary: £79,629 per annum

About the Client

Lewisham Council is one of London’s most diverse boroughs, committed to delivering high-quality services to its residents and workforce. The Strategic HR team within People and Organisation Development plays a vital role in ensuring effective payroll and pensions administration for over 3,000 Council employees, 3,000 school employees, and 28,000 pension members.

The Role

As Head of Payroll & Pensions, you will be the strategic lead for Lewisham Council’s payroll and pensions services. You will oversee an annual payroll exceeding £170m and manage the administration of the Lewisham Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), valued at approximately £1.85bn. This is a senior leadership role requiring expertise in payroll and pensions legislation, systems management, and stakeholder engagement. You will contribute to the Finance Leadership Team, setting the direction for payroll and pensions services, fostering a high-performing environment, and ensuring compliance with statutory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage payroll and pensions administration teams, ensuring efficient and effective service delivery.
• Oversee payroll and pensions systems, including Oracle Cloud and Altair, ensuring data integrity and compliance.
• Act as principal expert on payroll and pensions matters, advising senior management and stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with LGPS regulations, pensions legislation, and HMRC requirements.
• Manage external relationships, including actuaries, outsourced providers, schools, and admitted bodies.
• Lead on actuarial valuations, contract management, and re-procurements for pension fund services.
• Provide strategic advice on payroll and pensions tax issues, including HMRC audits and investigations.
• Represent Lewisham Council at Pension Board, Pension Investment Committee, and external forums.
• Ensure timely production of statutory returns, audited accounts, and reconciliations.
• Drive continuous improvement, innovation, and customer-focused service delivery.

Candidate Requirements

• Significant senior-level experience managing payroll and pensions functions within a complex organisation, preferably local government.
• Strong knowledge of LGPS regulations and pensions legislation (including LGPS 2013, Transitional Regulations 2014, Pensions Acts 2004/2011, Public Services Pensions Act 2013).
• Proven leadership and team development skills, with experience managing large teams.
• Expertise in payroll and pensions systems (Oracle Payroll, Altair Pension system).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and financial management skills.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, able to engage with stakeholders at all levels.
• Relevant degree or professional payroll/pensions qualification (e.g., MCIPPdip) or equivalent experience.
• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in employment and service delivery.