Payroll And Systems Team Leader – Harlow District Council

Essex County Council; Great Holland; On-site; GBP 44,000 - 47,000; Full time

Job summary

Harlow District Council is seeking a Payroll and Systems Team Leader to oversee delivery of payroll and HR systems services, ensuring accurate processing and compliance.

The role leads a small team, manages LGPS liaison, and drives system improvements across HR/payroll. Local government payroll experience is essential, with a focus on accuracy and timely reporting.

Qualifications

• End-to-end payroll experience essential.
• Strong knowledge of payroll legislation and HMRC requirements.
• Pension administration experience desirable.
• Experience supervising staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise the Payroll Team, ensuring payroll deadlines are met.
• Manage the accurate processing of payrolls for employees, pensioners, councillors and election staff.
• Ensure compliance with payroll legislation, HMRC requirements, statutory payments and year-end processes.
• Act as the key contact for the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
• Lead on payroll audit compliance and data accuracy.
• Manage and develop HR and payroll systems, including system improvements and upgrades.
• Produce payroll and workforce reports and provide expert advice on payroll, pensions and systems.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Organisational skills

Education

A-Levels / NVQ3 or equivalent

CIPP qualification

Tools

Payroll systems

HR systems

Job description

Payroll and Systems Team Leader - Harlow District Council

Harlow District Council

Permanent, Full Time

£44,253 - £46,579 per annum, Grade 13

Location: Harlow

Closing Date: 8th November 2026

Harlow Council is seeking an experienced Payroll & Systems Team Leader to lead the delivery of payroll and HR systems services. The role is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing, maintaining compliance with legislative requirements, leading a small team, and overseeing the development and administration of the Council's integrated HR and payroll systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise the Payroll Team, ensuring payroll deadlines are met.
• Manage the accurate processing of payrolls for employees, pensioners, councillors and election staff.
• Ensure compliance with payroll legislation, HMRC requirements, statutory payments and year-end processes.
• Act as the key contact for the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
• Lead on payroll audit compliance and data accuracy.
• Manage and develop HR and payroll systems, including system improvements and upgrades.
• Produce payroll and workforce reports and provide expert advice on payroll, pensions and systems.

About You

• Significant experience delivering an end-to‑end payroll service.
• Strong knowledge of payroll legislation, HMRC requirements and pension administration.
• Experience managing or supervising staff.
• Experience of payroll systems and process improvement.
• Excellent analytical, organisational and communication skills.
• Educated to A‑Level, NVQ3 or equivalent, with a CIPP qualification or relevant experience. Knowledge of local government payroll and LGPS is desirable.

Why Join Us?

This is an excellent opportunity to take a leadership role within our HR & Organisational Development team, driving service improvement and ensuring the delivery of a high-quality payroll and systems service. We are committed to supporting professional development and creating an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.