Payroll Manager

JR United Kingdom; Chippenham; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading payroll management company is seeking an experienced Head of Payroll to oversee payroll operations across the UK and Ireland. You will ensure timely and compliant payroll processing and lead a small team of payroll professionals. The ideal candidate has 5–10 years of experience in payroll, strong knowledge of TUPE transfers, and excellent attention to detail. Competitive salary and flexible working arrangements are offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary and bonus package

Flexible working arrangements

Inclusive and collaborative work culture

Qualifications

• 5–10 years of payroll experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience managing large payrolls across both the UK and Ireland.
• Strong understanding of UK and Irish tax, pension, and employment legislation.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the end-to-end payroll function for the UK and Ireland.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation including HMRC and Revenue regulations.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in payroll processes.

Skills

Leadership in Payroll

Knowledge of TUPE transfers

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Education

CIPP qualification or equivalent

Tools

ADP

SAP

Workday

Job description

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Location: United Kingdom (Hybrid/Flexible Working)

Experience Required: 5–10 Years

Reports To: Finance Director

Role Overview:

We are seeking an experienced and strategic Head of Payroll to lead and manage payroll operations across the UK and Ireland. This role is critical in ensuring accurate, compliant, and timely payroll processing for all employees, while also driving continuous improvement and operational excellence. Knowledge of TUPE transfers is essential, as is a strong understanding of UK and Irish payroll legislation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the end-to-end payroll function for the UK and Ireland, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timeliness.
• Oversee payroll processing for multiple entities, including complex payroll scenarios such as TUPE transfers, acquisitions, and restructures.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, including HMRC and Revenue (Ireland) regulations.
• Act as the subject matter expert on payroll-related matters, advising HR, Finance, and senior leadership.
• Manage relationships with external payroll providers, benefit providers and internal stakeholders.
• Lead payroll audits and ensure robust internal controls are in place.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, including automation and process optimisation.
• Support integration of payroll systems with HRIS and finance platforms.
• Provide strategic input into reward, benefits, and compensation planning.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a small team of payroll professionals.

Key Requirements:

• 5–10 years of payroll experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience managing large payrolls across both the UK and Ireland.
• In-depth knowledge of TUPE transfers and their payroll implications.
• Strong understanding of UK and Irish tax, pension, and employment legislation.
• Experience with payroll systems (e.g., ADP, SAP, Workday, or similar).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• High attention to detail and ability to work under pressure.
• CIPP qualification or equivalent (highly desirable).

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and bonus package
• Flexible working arrangements
• Inclusive and collaborative work culture