Head of UK Payroll

Our client is a successful and rapidly evolving organisation based in Birmingham is seeking an experienced Head of UK Payroll. This is a key leadership opportunity, you will lead a dedicated payroll team and have overall responsibility for the delivery of an accurate, compliant and effective UK payroll service.

Salary Package: Competitive salary plus large company benefits, hybrid working, a broad flexible benefits scheme, and 2 paid–for volunteering days a year. Hours: 9.00 am 5.30 pm, Monday Friday.

As the Head of UK Payroll, your duties include:

• Payroll Operations Oversight : Lead and manage end–to–end UK payroll operations, ensuring accurate and timely processing of payroll and for all employees. Implement and maintain payroll policies, procedures, and compliance with statutory regulations.
• Team Leadership: Build and lead a high–performing UK payroll team, providing guidance, training, and support for ongoing professional development. Foster a collaborative and efficient work environment to meet payroll objectives.
• Compliance and Legislation : Stay abreast of UK payroll legislation, tax regulations, and other related compliance requirements. Ensure payroll processes align with legal standards and are consistently updated to reflect changes in regulations. Ensure annual activities are completed to statutory deadlines.
• Payroll Systems Management: Oversee and optimise the use of payroll software and systems, ensuring they are up–to–date, efficient, and capable of handling the organisation's payroll complexities.
• Benefits Administration: Collaborate with HR and Finance teams to manage benefits/benefit in kind administration, including pension contributions, healthcare, and other employee benefits.
• Process Improvement: Identify opportunities for process improvement within the payroll function, implementing streamlined procedures and leveraging technology for increased efficiency.
• Audit and Reporting: Conduct regular internal audits of payroll processes to ensure accuracy and compliance. Generate and analyse payroll reports, providing insights to senior
• Collaboration with External Partners: Liaise with external stakeholders, such as HMRC and pension providers, to maintain positive relationships and ensure accurate and compliant payroll reporting. Collaborate with finance teams for seamless integration of payroll data into broader financial reporting processes.

As the Head of UK Payroll, you will have:

• Proven track record of successfully leading and managing a UK payroll team
• Comprehensive understanding of UK payroll legislation, tax regulations, and compliance requirements, with a history of ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing
• Extensive experience in managing and optimising payroll systems, including a demonstrated ability to implement technology solutions for improved efficiency and accuracy
• Ability to develop and implement strategic payroll initiatives aligned with organisational goals, including process improvements and adaptation to evolving payroll trends
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong analytical skills with a focus on problem resolution, including the ability to address complex payroll issues promptly
• Extensive experience in using Microsoft Excel, being an advanced user