At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage payroll for 110 staff in the UK and US, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- Company: Join Arqit, a leader in post-quantum cryptography with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Flexible hybrid working, career growth opportunities, and a positive work environment.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to innovate and grow within a world-class team.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic finance team making a real impact in a cutting-edge industry.
- Qualifications: Experience in payroll, strong Excel skills, and attention to detail are key.
Arqit is a global pioneer in post-quantum cryptography: we provide a proven defence against both current cyber dangers and impending quantum threats. Our global team describe Arqit as providing a positive, inclusive and high-performing working environment, where employees feel that managers care about the success and well-being of their teams, individuals feel valued as employees and teams achieve more than they thought possible, together. There has never been a more exciting time to join Arqit. We are scaling our Finance Operations Centre in Belfast, building a world-class team to support the Group’s continued growth. The finance team is pivotal to the business, ensuring financial information is timely, accurate, complete and compliant with relevant accounting and taxation principles. We have a culture that gives you the opportunity to innovate, take ownership, and scale new heights in your career as the company grows.
We are looking for a detail-oriented Payroll & HR Finance Specialist to manage payroll operations for approximately 110 staff across the UK and US. This role also covers RSU vesting and tax reporting, T&E management and expense policy compliance, forming an important bridge between Finance and HR. The role is based in our Belfast city centre office, with flexibility for hybrid working.
What you’ll be doing:
- Manage the UK and US payroll processes for approximately 110 employees, providing monthly variance analysis and approvals.
- Oversee RSU vesting cycles and associated tax withholding and reporting (P11D, W-2).
- Manage and reconcile the T&E platform for approximately 150 transactions per month, ensuring compliance with the Group expense policy.
- Maintain and update the Group expense policy, communicating changes across the business.
- Oversee pension reporting and ensure timely remittances.
- Manage all payroll compliance and reporting for the relevant payrolls.
- Support the statutory reporting cycle by providing payroll schedules and reconciliations.
- Partner with HR on headcount reporting and budget variance analysis.
What we’re looking for:
- Demonstrable payroll experience, ideally covering both UK and US payrolls.
- Familiarity with RSU / share scheme administration and related tax reporting obligations.
- Strong Excel skills and experience with payroll or HRIS platforms.
- High attention to detail with a commitment to payroll accuracy and confidentiality.
- Part-qualified accountant (desirable but not essential).
Please note, the ability to work in the UK without visa restrictions is ESSENTIAL.
Payroll Specialist in Belfast employer: Arqit
Arqit is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture in the heart of Belfast. With a focus on employee growth, we offer opportunities for professional development and the chance to work on cutting-edge technology in cybersecurity. Our hybrid work model ensures flexibility, allowing you to balance your personal and professional life while contributing to meaningful projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll Specialist in Belfast
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Arqit. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Specialist in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Arqit.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Arqit's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Arqit
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Arqit.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Arqit will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Arqit employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
