Payroll Manager

Payroll Manager

Are you an experienced payroll leader ready to take ownership of a growing, client-focused payroll function?

Our client is seeking a Payroll Manager to lead and develop its payroll department. This is a senior role with responsibility for the team, operational delivery, client service, compliance and the future direction of the function.

You’ll oversee payroll services for a diverse portfolio of clients, while helping the department grow through stronger processes, effective use of technology and the development of a high-performing team.

The role

You will take accountability for the department’s performance and service standards, leading a team of payroll professionals and acting as the senior escalation point for complex technical, operational and client matters.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading, coaching and developing the payroll team, including recruitment, onboarding, performance reviews and succession planning.
• Setting departmental objectives and managing workflow, capacity and resources.
• Overseeing accurate, timely and compliant payroll delivery across the client portfolio.
• Managing client payroll schedules, year-end activities, pension auto-enrolment and statutory reporting.
• Acting as the primary contact for key clients and resolving sensitive or complex matters professionally.
• Ensuring payroll processes meet HMRC requirements, GDPR obligations and data-security standards.
• Monitoring legislative changes and keeping the department’s practices up to date.
• Reviewing processes and leading improvements, system enhancements, automation and digital transformation.
• Supporting client onboarding, proposals, tenders and business-development opportunities.
• Working with senior leadership to support the growth, profitability and strategic development of the payroll function.

About you

You’ll bring significant experience managing payroll across a varied client portfolio, alongside a proven track record of leading and developing a team. You’ll be confident managing departmental performance, resolving complex payroll issues and improving how services are delivered.

You’ll also have:

• Essential: Strong experience with Sage Payroll.
• Expert knowledge of payroll legislation and HMRC requirements.
• A sound understanding of pension auto-enrolment and statutory payroll obligations.
• Strong Excel and reporting skills.
• The ability to build trusted client relationships and deliver excellent service.
• A commercial, organised and solutions-focused approach.

Experience with Xero Payroll is advantageous, and a CIPP qualification is desirable.

Why consider this opportunity?

This is an opportunity to shape the future of an established and growing payroll function. You’ll have the scope to develop people, improve processes, embrace technology and make a meaningful contribution to the firm’s wider success.

If you’re an inspiring, supportive leader who enjoys taking ownership and driving improvement, we’d be pleased to hear from you.

INDFS