Payroll Manager

Ballards LLP; Droitwich Spa; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading accounting firm in Droitwich Spa is seeking an experienced Payroll Manager to oversee a team and manage payroll services. You will ensure efficient service delivery while contributing to team development in a collaborative environment. The ideal candidate has strong technical payroll knowledge and excellent communication skills. This role offers a competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for career progression.

Benefits

25 days holiday + bank holidays

Flexible holiday purchase scheme

Career development opportunities

Life assurance & pension scheme

Qualifications

• At least 5 years' experience in a payroll environment.
• Previous experience managing a payroll team.
• Experience with UK taxation, NI, and pensions legislation.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day running of the payroll department.
• Act as primary contact for technical payroll queries.
• Manage own client portfolio and deliver payroll services.

Skills

Strong technical knowledge of payroll systems

Excellent communication skills

Strong Excel skills

Education

CIPP Diploma in Payroll Management

Tools

Sage

Xero

Job description

Ballards LLP are an award-winning firm of chartered accountants, with offices in Worcester, Droitwich, and Birmingham. With a modern approach to accountancy and a passion for excellent client service, we provide a wide range of services across diverse sectors.

Due to continued growth, we're looking for an experienced and proactive Payroll Manager to lead our Payroll team. This role offers the chance to manage a talented group of professionals, oversee the delivery of end-to-end payroll services, and contribute to the development of our client portfolio in line with the firm's growth strategy.

We're proud of our supportive and collaborative culture, where you'll be encouraged to take ownership, contribute ideas, and build your career. With hybrid working, a competitive benefits package, and genuine opportunities for progression, this is an excellent step for someone ready to develop their leadership and technical expertise in payroll.

About the role

As Payroll Manager, you'll be the go-to specialist for all payroll matters, ensuring the smooth and efficient delivery of services to a diverse range of clients. You'll lead and support the team, manage your own client portfolio, and play a key role in continuous improvement projects that enhance efficiency and client experience.

Your key responsibilities

• Overseeing the day-to-day running of the payroll department, monitoring deadlines, delegating tasks, and supporting team members.
• Acting as the primary point of contact for technical payroll queries and complex problem-solving.
• Managing your own client portfolio and delivering end-to-end payroll services.
• Line-managing team members through effective briefing, supervision, training, and appraisals.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with internal and external clients.
• Assisting partners and key staff with workload management, deadlines, and project delivery.
• Identifying and resolving client issues, supporting colleagues with technical and service challenges.
• Driving compliance across all practice management activities.
• Liaising with other departments to ensure seamless delivery of work and projects.
• Leading continuous improvement initiatives, including systems development, process efficiency, and software implementation.
• Managing the BACS Bureau services and overseeing third-party relationships.
• Supporting business development activities and working with the Marketing team to create client-focused materials.

About you

We're looking for a confident and solutions-focused payroll professional who can combine strong technical expertise with excellent leadership skills. You'll be motivated by delivering exceptional client service, developing your team, and driving operational improvements.

• A CIPP Diploma in Payroll Management (or equivalent qualification).
• At least 5 years' experience in a payroll environment.
• Previous experience managing a payroll team.
• Strong technical knowledge of payroll systems, UK taxation, NI, and pensions legislation.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships at all levels.
• Strong Excel skills and experience manipulating payroll data and reports.
• A professional, approachable, and solutions-focused mindset.
• Experience with payroll systems such as Sage or Xero.

About the rewards

• Competitive salary
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays
• Flexible holiday purchase scheme
• Hybrid & flexible working
• Career development opportunities
• Life assurance & pension scheme
• Cycle to Work & Electric Car schemes
• Enhanced family pay (maternity, paternity, parental, compassionate leave)
• Employee Assistance Programme - 24/7 support