Payroll Manager

Simpson Judge; London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment firm in London is seeking a Payroll Operations Specialist to ensure the payroll process is compliant and efficient. You will lead the in-house Payroll Team, manage relationships with external providers, and analyze payroll data for informed decision-making. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of payroll compliance. This role offers a competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• Experience in payroll processes and regulations.
• Strong analytical skills to inform strategic decisions.
• Ability to lead and manage a payroll team.

Responsibilities

• Ensure payroll processes are compliant and timely.
• Lead payroll-related year-end activities.
• Manage relationships with external service providers.
• Analyze payroll data for strategic decision-making.
• Foster professional development within the team.

Skills

Payroll compliance

Customer service

Data accuracy

Leadership

Data analysis

Tools

iTrent HR and Payroll system

Job description

Payroll Operations

• Ensure each stage of the payroll process is conducted in compliance with established procedures and timelines, ensuring staff are paid accurately and on time.
• Resolve payroll-related queries efficiently, ensuring high levels of customer service and satisfaction.
• Lead on payroll year-end activities, including statutory reporting and reconciliations.
• Maintain high standards of data accuracy and integrity across Payroll and HR systems, ensuring full compliance with the Data Protection Act and GDPR.

Managed Payroll Service Oversight

• Oversee the performance of the external Managed Payroll Service Provider (MHR), ensuring that all payroll activities are completed accurately and on schedule.
• Conduct thorough checks, resolve escalated issues, and ensure timely sign-off of payroll each month.
• Conduct monthly reviews of payroll activities, identifying areas for improvement and implementing lessons learned.

Pensions Administration

• Manage the relationship with the external Managed Pension Service Provider (MHR), ensuring accurate and timely completion of all pension-related monthly and annual returns.
• Liaise with pension scheme providers to address and resolve queries efficiently.

Employee Pay and Reward

• Lead on the implementation of pay awards, long service awards, and bonuses.
• Ensure accurate payment processing and effective communication with employees regarding rewards.

HR & Payroll Systems (iTrent)

• Act as the system owner and administrator for the iTrent HR and Payroll system, ensuring it is optimised for organisational needs.
• Lead the development and continuous improvement of system functionality to support automation and process efficiency.
• Champion a positive user experience and ensure system changes meet operational and strategic objectives.

Payroll Data & Insights

• Analyse and report on payroll data to inform strategic decisions and enhance people management practices.
• Use data insights to support business planning and ensure evidence-based approaches to payroll and reward strategies.

Team Leadership

• Lead and manage the in-house Payroll Team, ensuring high standards of performance, service delivery, and compliance.
• Provide leadership across the broader HR and Payroll functions, fostering collaboration and shared learning.
• Support the professional development of team members, promoting knowledge sharing and adherence to best practices.

Pay and Reward Projects

• Contribute to and support the successful delivery of pay and reward-related projects across the employee life cycle, from onboarding to exit.
• Engage with stakeholders to ensure alignment with organisational goals and employee value proposition.