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- Tasks: Lead payroll operations for 825 staff, ensuring compliance and accurate processing.
- Company: Join a respected school in Surrey focused on kindness, professionalism, and community impact.
- Benefits: Enjoy a generous pension scheme, free parking, gym access, and ongoing professional development.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact in an inclusive environment while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Five years of payroll experience, with strong knowledge of legislation and excellent communication skills.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence payroll systems and policies in a forward-thinking organisation.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 65000 £ per year.
This range is provided by Eutopia Search. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Base pay range
Are you a detail-driven Payroll Manager with experience handling large, complex in-house payrolls? Are you looking for a new challenge in a purpose-led organisation that values kindness, professionalism, and community?
A respected school in the heart of Surrey is seeking a Payroll and Benefits Manager to lead the payroll function across a group of well-established schools, supporting over 800 employees. This is a rare opportunity to join a forward-thinking environment with real influence on payroll systems, policies, and strategy, while benefiting from a supportive culture rooted in values and continuous improvement.
The Role
As Payroll and Benefits Manager, you will lead the payroll operations across three payrolls, ensuring accurate, timely processing and full compliance with HMRC, pension schemes, and internal reporting. Key responsibilities include:
- Managing monthly in-house payrolls for approximately 825 staff, including PAYE, RTI, and pension deductions
- Administering multiple pension schemes, including Teachers’ Pensions and Group Personal Pension
- Leading on benefits administration, including salary sacrifice, P11Ds, Group Life, and Income Protection
- Working closely with HR to align payroll with employee lifecycle events
- Supporting audits and producing accurate payroll reporting, such as Gender Pay Gap and KPIs
- Leading and developing a small payroll team
- Playing a key role in the selection and implementation of a new payroll system by 2026
What We Are Looking For
- Five or more years of experience in payroll, with at least two years in a managerial or supervisory role
- Strong technical knowledge of payroll legislation, tax, and pensions
- Proficiency with payroll software and advanced Excel skills
- Excellent communication, leadership, and organisational ability
- Experience within the education sector is desirable but not essential
- Salary up to: £65,000
- Generous contributory pension scheme
- Cycle to Work and electric vehicle salary sacrifice schemes
- Free on-site parking
- Access to on-site gym and golf course
- Invitations to staff events, performances, and activities
- Ongoing professional development and training
Why Join Us
This is not just a payroll position – it is a chance to work in an inclusive, values-led environment with a mission to make a positive impact on future generations. You will be part of a community that values people, professionalism, and purpose.
Seniority level
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Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
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Employment type
Full-time
Job function
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Job function
Accounting/Auditing and Human Resources
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Industries
Education
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Payroll Manager employer: Eutopia Search
Contact Detail:
Eutopia Search Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those who have experience in payroll management. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in payroll systems.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific payroll software used in educational institutions. If possible, take online courses or tutorials to enhance your skills in these systems, as this will make you a more attractive candidate for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay updated on changes in payroll legislation, tax regulations, and pension schemes that affect the education sector. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to compliance and best practices.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Highlight any experiences where you've implemented new processes or systems, as this aligns with the role's focus on leading payroll operations and system implementation.
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in payroll management, especially any roles where you've handled large, complex payrolls. Include specific examples of your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the role and the organisation's values. Mention your experience with payroll legislation, tax, and pensions, and how you can contribute to their mission of making a positive impact on future generations.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Emphasise your technical skills, particularly your proficiency with payroll software and advanced Excel. Highlight your leadership abilities and experience in managing teams, as these are crucial for the Payroll Manager position.
Proofread and Edit: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread your documents for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is essential for a Payroll Manager.
How to prepare for a job interview at Eutopia Search
✨Showcase Your Payroll Expertise
Make sure to highlight your experience with payroll legislation, tax, and pensions during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've managed complex payrolls and ensured compliance with HMRC regulations.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Payroll Manager, you'll be leading a small team. Share your leadership experiences and how you've developed team members in previous roles. Discuss any strategies you've implemented to improve team performance and morale.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that test your technical knowledge of payroll software and advanced Excel skills. Brush up on common payroll scenarios and be ready to explain how you would handle them using your technical expertise.
✨Align with Company Values
Research the organisation's values and mission. During the interview, express how your personal values align with theirs, particularly around community and professionalism. This will show that you're not just looking for a job, but a place where you can make a positive impact.
