Payroll Manager

Broster Buchanan; Milton Keynes; Hybrid; GBP 37,000 - 46,000; Full time

Job summary

Broster Buchanan is recruiting a Payroll Manager in Milton Keynes to own the UK payroll function during a transition from HR to Finance. The role is hands-on with no direct reports and involves benefits, contractor management and working with a payroll bureau.

You will oversee payroll across multiple entities, ensure compliance with PAYE/NI/pensions, and support development of robust processes and controls within Finance. Hybrid working, immediate start.

Qualifications

• Strong UK payroll experience with PAYE, NI and pension knowledge.
• Experience overseeing payroll with an external bureau and ensuring accuracy.
• Experience partnering with senior stakeholders to drive process improvements.

Responsibilities

• Oversee monthly payroll across multiple businesses with external bureau support.
• Ensure payroll accuracy, reconciliations, compliance and monthly sign-off.
• Manage employee benefits, contractor administration, and supplier relationships.

Skills

Payroll processing

Regulatory compliance

Contractor management

Stakeholder communication

Process improvement

Education

CIPP certification (desirable)

Tools

Worksome

External payroll bureau liaison

Job description

Payroll Manager

Milton Keynes

£200-£250 per day (Umbrella rate, Inside IR35)

Immediate Start

I'm currently recruiting for a Payroll Manager to join a renowned private equity-backed organisation based in Milton Keynes.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced payroll professional to take ownership of the payroll function and play a key role in an important transition, as payroll moves from HR into Finance.

The role is highly operational and hands-on, rather than a traditional people-management position - in fact, there are no direct reports with this position.

You'll oversee payroll, benefits and contractor management, working closely with the Finance Director and supporting the development of effective processes and controls within Finance.

The Role

• Oversee the monthly payroll process across multiple businesses, working closely with an external payroll bureau.
• Take ownership of payroll accuracy, reconciliations, compliance and monthly payroll sign-off.
• Manage payroll queries and ensure compliance with UK payroll legislation, including PAYE, National Insurance and pensions.
• Manage employee benefits, provider relationships and cost control.
• Oversee contractor administration, payments and reconciliations through Worksome.
• Manage relationships with third-party agencies and suppliers, including rates, contracts and renewals.
• Support the transition of payroll from HR into Finance, helping establish effective processes, controls and ways of working.
• Identify opportunities to improve payroll operations and support the organisation's future growth.

What I'm Looking For

• Strong UK payroll experience and a thorough understanding of PAYE, National Insurance, pensions and HMRC legislation.
• Experience overseeing payroll processes and working with an external payroll bureau.
• A proactive, organised and hands-on approach, with the confidence to take ownership of the function.
• Experience with employee benefits, contractor management or agency relationships would be advantageous.
• Someone comfortable working with senior stakeholders and supporting process improvements.

CIPP qualification would be advantageous but is not a requirement.

The Details

• Rate: £200-£250 per day, inside IR35
• Contract: Temp to perm or an initial 3-month temporary assignment
• Start: Immediate
• Location: Milton Keynes
• Working arrangement: Hybrid, 2 days in the office
• Hours: Monday to Friday, 8am-4pm
• Working week: 37.5 hours
• Parking: Free on-site parking
• Reporting to: Finance Director

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone who enjoys being hands-on, taking ownership and making a tangible difference, particularly a payroll professional interested in helping shape the function as it transitions into Finance.