At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead payroll transformation projects and implement process improvements for efficiency and automation.
- Company: Rapidly growing international business with a focus on operational transformation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hands-on experience, and the chance to influence global payroll operations.
- Other info: Opportunity to work closely with senior leadership and drive change across international payroll.
- Why this job: Make an immediate impact in a dynamic environment and shape the future of payroll.
- Qualifications: Experience in payroll transformation and strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Our client is an established and rapidly growing international business seeking a hands-on Payroll Transformation Manager to join their payroll function on a 6-month fixed-term contract. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced payroll change professional to make an immediate impact within a business undergoing significant operational transformation.
Reporting directly to senior leadership, you will initially focus on the UK payroll function, assessing current processes, identifying areas for improvement and implementing practical solutions to improve efficiency, reduce risk and increase automation. Working closely with the Global Payroll Manager and key stakeholders across HR and Finance, you will play a pivotal role in helping shape the future payroll operating model. Following the initial UK-focused phase, the remit is expected to broaden into wider international payroll transformation projects, giving the successful candidate the opportunity to influence payroll operations on a global scale.
This role would suit someone who has successfully entered complex payroll environments, assessed current-state processes, implemented meaningful improvements and moved organisations towards a more scalable and efficient payroll function. The successful individual will be comfortable operating both strategically and hands-on, bringing a calm, collaborative approach whilst coaching and supporting stakeholders through change.
Key Responsibilities- Conduct a comprehensive review of existing UK payroll processes, controls and workflows
- Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce manual intervention and increase automation
- Develop and implement practical process improvement initiatives and payroll best practices
- Partner closely with the Global Payroll Manager to support and embed operational changes
- Provide recommendations on future-state payroll processes, controls and operating models
- Work with HR, Finance and Payroll stakeholders to drive business-wide transformation initiatives
- Support key payroll events including pay reviews, commissions, benefits and bonus cycles
- Coach and guide payroll stakeholders through periods of change, ensuring engagement and adoption
- Collaborate with offshore payroll support teams to optimise ways of working
- Contribute to the future transformation of international payroll operations following the initial UK-focused phase
- Ability to start ASAP and willingness to be on-site in Central London 3 days per week
- Proven experience leading payroll transformation, optimisation or change initiatives
- Strong UK payroll knowledge and understanding of payroll legislation and compliance
- Demonstrable track record of reviewing payroll functions and implementing process improvements
- Comfortable operating in environments where processes are evolving and require transformation
- Able to balance strategic thinking with a willingness to be hands-on when needed
- Strong stakeholder management and influencing skills
- Calm, resilient and unflappable approach, with the ability to support and coach colleagues through change
- Commercially minded with a pragmatic, solutions-focused mentality
- Payroll systems experience essential; exposure to payroll automation and process redesign projects highly advantageous
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll Transformation Manager in City of London
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Temp Agencies
Temporary roles in HR are often filled through agencies. Reach out to temp agencies that specialise in HR placements. They can help you find gigs quickly and give you a chance to demonstrate your skills in real-world scenarios.
✨Network at HR Events and Workshops
Dive into local HR events, workshops, and seminars. These are great opportunities to meet professionals already in the field and might lead to temporary positions. Be sure to have a chat, exchange contacts, and express your interest in on-the-spot opportunities!
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
In the temporary HR world, being adaptable is key. When you're networking or interviewing, highlight your ability to quickly learn and fill diverse roles, from recruitment to employee onboarding. Make it clear that you’re ready to dive in at any time!
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out the opportunities at Catalyst Partners and apply directly via our website. This way, you can express your interest in temporary roles and get ahead in the application process!
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Transformation Manager in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your People Skills:In HR, showcasing your interpersonal skills is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you have dealing with talent management, resolving conflicts, or facilitating workshops. We want to see your ability to connect with others!
Tailor Your CV to HR:Use HR-specific language in your CV and cover letter. Mention any specific HR tools, software, or methodologies you’re familiar with, like ATS systems or performance management frameworks. This will show that you’re not just a good fit, but you've got the know-how to back it up!
Emphasise Your Flexibility:Since this is a temporary role, emphasising your adaptability and willingness to learn quickly is crucial. Include examples of how you've successfully jumped into new environments before or handled sudden changes in previous jobs. We love a team player who can hit the ground running!
Availability Matters:In your application, make sure to clarify your availability and commitment to the temporary position. This will help us understand when you can start and how you fit into our plans at Catalyst Partners. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Catalyst Partners
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at Catalyst Partners, it's crucial to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to adapt quickly. You might be thrown into new projects or systems, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated changes in past roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with HR Tools
Many HR positions require familiarity with tools like HRIS or ATS systems. Before the interview, brush up on the specific software that Catalyst Partners uses—if you see any mentioned in the job posting, make sure you're ready to discuss them and your experience with similar tools.
✨Your Motivation Matters
As a temp, it's essential to convey your motivation for this role. Employers often look for candidates who are not just filling a position, but who are genuinely keen on contributing effectively in a short period. Consider sharing why you’re passionate about HR and how you see yourself adding value at Catalyst Partners.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
HR interviews often include situational questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think about common HR challenges, like dealing with conflict or managing onboarding efficiently, and prepare to discuss how you would handle these situations at Catalyst Partners.
