Payroll Team Leader (PO5)

TN United Kingdom; London; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking local authority as a Payroll Supervisor for a 3-month contract. In this pivotal role, you'll lead a diverse payroll team, ensuring the accurate and timely delivery of payroll services to over 6,000 internal staff and external partners. Your expertise in payroll legislation and systems will be crucial as you navigate complex payroll matters and support the development of a modern payroll service. This hybrid position allows for flexibility while working closely with HR and finance teams to enhance service delivery. If you're passionate about payroll and eager to make a difference, this opportunity is for you.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of payroll legislation and systems, especially in public sector.
• Experience leading teams and managing payroll operations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee payroll services ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Supervise and develop payroll staff while driving service improvements.

Skills

Payroll Legislation Knowledge

Payroll Systems Experience (Oracle)

Team Management

Customer Service Focus

Stakeholder Communication

Policy Development

KPI Analysis

Education

Relevant Payroll Qualification

Tools

Oracle Payroll System

Job description

**Job Title:** Payroll Supervisor (3 Months Contract with a Local Authority)

Job Summary:

- You will be part of a diverse payroll team responsible for the accurate and timely delivery of payroll services to approximately 6,320 internal staff (school and corporate) and 200 external school employees.

- Working closely with internal departments, external partners, and software providers (notably Oracle), your role will be to ensure payroll operations are compliant with legislation, streamlined, and customer focused.

- You will supervise and develop payroll staff, lead on complex payroll matters, and support the delivery of a modern, digital, value-adding payroll service that aligns with the Council’s corporate and service strategies.

Key Duties/Accountabilities:

1. Oversee the day-to-day delivery of payroll services, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and compliance with statutory requirements and internal policies.
2. Supervise, support, and develop a team of payroll officers, promoting continuous improvement and performance management.
3. Provide expert advice on PAYE, National Insurance, pensions (LGPS, TP, NHSPS), statutory payments, and employment legislation.
4. Work in partnership with HR and finance teams to ensure a cohesive service and lead on system improvements including digitisation and automation.
5. Represent the Council in external engagements with HMRC, auditors, actuaries, and in legal or regulatory proceedings where necessary.
6. Deputise for the Payroll Manager in their absence, ensuring service continuity.
7. Support the development of a Payroll Digital Strategy to enhance service delivery using modern IT tools.
8. Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion across the team and in service delivery.

Skills/Experience:

1. Strong knowledge of payroll legislation including PAYE, NI, auto-enrolment and pension schemes (LGPS, TP, NHSPS).
2. Demonstrable experience of using payroll systems (preferably Oracle) within a complex, public-sector environment.
3. Proven ability to manage and lead teams, resolve complex payroll issues, and drive service improvement.
4. Experience working to tight deadlines and under pressure, with a focus on customer service.
5. Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with a range of stakeholders, both internal and external.
6. Experience of contributing to policy development and interpreting legislative change in relation to payroll.
7. Ability to analyse and produce payroll-related KPIs and financial data for senior management.

Additional Information:

• The closing date: 09/05/2025 @09:00.
• Hybrid – 2 days/week from the office.
• A relevant payroll qualification or significant experience within a payroll function is essential.