At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a diverse payroll team to ensure accurate and timely employee payments.
- Company: Join Lambeth Council, a vibrant community-focused organisation in South London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the lives of thousands while fostering a positive work environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in payroll management and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 73266 - 78090 € per year.
REF: 2817PO
£73,266 pa rising in annual increments to £78,090 inc LW.
Permanent and Full Time
About Us:
Located in the heart of South London, Lambeth Borough is a vibrant community of over 317,600 residents. Stretching from the dynamic neighbourhood of Streatham in the South to the iconic landmarks of Waterloo in the North, we are proud to be the 9th largest borough in London. Our diversity is our strength, with more than 130 languages spoken, making Lambeth the home of the Windrush generation, London's largest LGBTQ+ community, and a thriving Portuguese-speaking community. It is an exciting time to join Lambeth Council, we have bold ambitions for the future of Lambeth’s communities and residents through our Lambeth 2030 Plan ‘Our Future, Our Lambeth. With exceptional schools, lush green spaces including Brockwell Park, cultural gems like the Black Cultural Archives, and world-renowned institutions such as St Thomas's Hospital, Lambeth offers an enriching and dynamic environment.
About the Team:
We are a diverse payroll team consisting of 12 members, managing the payroll operations for approximately 3,000 school staff, 3,200 corporate staff, and around 200 external school staff. We work in close collaboration with our internal & external partners and software providers to ensure the smooth function of the Oracle payroll system.
About the Role:
As Payroll Manager, you will lead the delivery of a comprehensive, accurate and customer‑focused payroll service, ensuring employees are paid correctly and on time in full compliance with legislation, regulations and Council policies. Reporting to the Assistant Director of Payroll and Pensions, you will manage and develop a high‑performing payroll team, fostering a positive, inclusive culture and embedding continuous improvement across all payroll operations. The role has a strong operational and strategic focus. You will oversee statutory compliance (including PAYE, National Insurance and multiple pension schemes), manage complex payroll reconciliations and year‑end processes, and act as the Council’s professional lead on payroll matters. You will also work closely with HR, Finance and external stakeholders to deliver joined‑up services, support payroll digital transformation, and develop the payroll function as a value‑adding, data‑led service, including delivering payroll bureau services to schools and external clients.
How to Apply:
To be considered for interview, your CV and supporting statement will clearly evidence how you meet the shortlisting criteria on the personal specification marked “A” for application: Job Description and Person Specification. We operate an anonymised application process, so be sure to remove personal details when uploading your CV or personal statement.
Recruitment Timelines:
Advert close date: 11:59pm on 21 June 2026.
Shortlisting: Week commencing 22 June 2026.
Interviews: 30 June, 1-2 July 2026.
Contact Information:
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact Linda D’Souza at LDSouza@lambeth.gov.uk.
At Lambeth, we are dedicated to providing quality services and equal opportunities for all. We are committed to safer recruitment and are proud to be a Stonewall diversity champion, a Living Wage Employer, and to guarantee interviews for all disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the role.
Payroll Manager employer: Borough of Lambeth
Lambeth Council is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant and diverse community of South London, offering a supportive work culture that values inclusivity and continuous improvement. As a Payroll Manager, you will lead a dedicated team while enjoying competitive benefits, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to contribute to the ambitious Lambeth 2030 Plan, all within a dynamic environment rich in cultural heritage and community spirit.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the payroll and finance sectors. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research Lambeth Council and its values. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially around compliance and team management.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! Bring examples of how you've improved payroll processes or led teams in the past. Concrete achievements will make you stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the Lambeth team.
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Payroll Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We want to see how you can contribute to our diverse payroll team!
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement:Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Clearly demonstrate how you meet the shortlisting criteria. Use specific examples from your past experiences to show us why you're the perfect fit for this role.
Follow the Anonymised Process:Remember, we operate an anonymised application process. So, be sure to remove any personal details from your CV and supporting statement before uploading. This helps us focus on your skills and experience!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Borough of Lambeth
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Payroll Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in payroll operations. Brush up on key figures related to PAYE, National Insurance, and pension schemes. Be ready to discuss how you've managed complex payroll reconciliations in the past.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves managing a diverse team, so be prepared to share examples of how you've developed high-performing teams. Talk about your approach to fostering an inclusive culture and how you’ve implemented continuous improvement in previous roles.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Lambeth Council is focused on delivering joined-up services. Familiarise yourself with their Lambeth 2030 Plan and think about how your role as Payroll Manager can contribute to these broader goals. This shows that you're not just thinking about payroll but also about the community.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the payroll digital transformation and how the team collaborates with HR and Finance. This demonstrates your interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
