Payroll Manager Grade 9

TN United Kingdom; Cardiff; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job description

3 months contract with a Local Authority

Job Summary:

• The postholder will lead the Payroll Team to ensure the accurate and timely delivery of payroll services in line with current legislation and terms and conditions of employment.

• The role requires strategic oversight of the payroll function and a commitment to continuous improvement, service modernisation, and operational efficiency.

• This is a pivotal role within the wider HR leadership team and will contribute to the development and implementation of cross-functional initiatives with payroll implications.

Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample):

• Provide strong leadership and line management for the payroll function.

• Ensure accurate and timely processing of payroll in line with statutory requirements and internal policies.

• Act as the subject matter expert for complex payroll matters such as multiple employments, family leave, sickness absence, pensions, and payments on termination.

• Collaborate with HR recruitment teams to ensure smooth onboarding and accurate payroll setup for new starters.

• Take the lead in implementing new payroll systems or procedures and improving existing processes.

• Manage the relationship and integrations between payroll and HR, pension, and finance systems.

• Develop and oversee pension auto-enrolment processes and ensure full compliance with statutory obligations.

• Lead on internal and external payroll audits and always ensure readiness for scrutiny.

• Produce routine and ad hoc payroll reports for internal and external stakeholders, including HR and finance.

• Participate in HR leadership discussions and act as a key contributor to cross-functional HR projects where payroll expertise is required.

• Supervise the preparation of payroll data and ensure compliance with payroll timetables and BACS processing deadlines.

• Carry out year-end payroll activities and apply agreed pay awards accurately.

• Support the team with day-to-day activities where required and ensure all SLAs and quality standards are met.

• Handle complex and escalated payroll issues and complaints with professionalism and sensitivity.

• Provide advice and information to external bodies such as the DWP and the Crown Prosecution Service and attend court proceedings as necessary.

• Respond to Freedom of Information (FOI) requests and data queries related to payroll.

Skills/Experience:

• Proven experience in managing or supervising a payroll team.

• Strong knowledge of PAYE, NI, and statutory deductions legislation.

• Familiarity with terms and conditions of employment and their application to payroll.

• Proficient in payroll systems and Microsoft Office applications.

• Ability to manage high volumes of payroll data with accuracy and efficiency.

• Skilled in resolving complex payroll queries and providing sound guidance to colleagues.

• Excellent organisational and time management skills with the ability to meet tight deadlines.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to engage effectively with staff, managers, and external bodies.

• A high level of integrity and confidentiality in handling sensitive payroll data.

• Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace.

Additional Information:

• Hybrid, with regular attendance at your contracted base.

• Holds a professional payroll qualification.