Payroll Manager

Payroll Manager

Southampton Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Manage payroll for over 500 employees, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
  • Company: Join a world-leading luxury manufacturing business known for craftsmanship and innovation.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid work options, and a supportive culture.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact by modernising payroll operations in a prestigious global brand.
  • Qualifications: Extensive UK payroll experience and strong Excel skills are essential.
  • Other info: This is a key role with opportunities for process improvement and automation.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

Job Description

Are you looking for your first or perhaps next Payroll Manager level role? An innovative and fast-growing business operating on a global scale is seeking a newly created Payroll Manager to join its finance team in Woolston. The company is recognised for its use of advanced technology and forward-thinking approach, with a strong focus on sustainability and delivering high-quality solutions within its sector.

What will the Payroll Manager role involve?

  • Preparation and processing of monthly payroll for UK and international employees
  • Liaising with HR and external payroll providers to ensure accuracy and timeliness
  • Assisting with payroll year-end processes (P60s, P11Ds, HMRC filings)
  • Ensuring compliance with IR35, including contractor assessments and liaison with providers
  • Supporting global mobility processes, including tax, payroll, and relocation matters

Suitable candidate for the Payroll Manager vacancy:

  • Proven experience managing payroll across UK and international jurisdictions
  • Strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation, PAYE, pensions, benefits, and year-end requirements
  • Practical understanding of IR35 compliance and contractor assessments
  • Experience managing expenses, VAT treatment, and reconciliations
  • Ideally, exposure to expatriate payroll, offshore or US payroll

Additional benefits and information for the role of Payroll Manager:

  • 5% matched pension (salary sacrifice)
  • Private medical insurance – family cover
  • Dental cover – family cover
  • Travel insurance
  • Cycle to Work and tech purchase scheme
  • Life assurance at 4x salary (DIS)
  • Hybrid working – 3 days in office with increasing flexibility over time
  • Flexible hours 
  • 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

CMA Recruitment Group is acting as a recruitment agency in relation to this role. CMA complies with all relevant UK legislation and doesn’t discriminate on any protected characteristics. By completing the application process, you agree to the terms outlined in our Privacy Notice and that CMA may contact you in connection with your application in relation to CMA providing you with work finding services. Our Privacy Notice can be viewed under the privacy tab on our website. CMA is currently receiving a high volume of applications. Whilst we ensure all applications are considered, regrettably, it may not be possible to respond individually to all applications received.

Payroll Manager employer: CMA Recruitment Group

CMA Recruitment Group is an exceptional employer, offering a competitive salary and benefits package within a prestigious global brand known for its craftsmanship and innovation. The supportive, family-oriented work culture in Southampton fosters employee growth through opportunities to lead process improvements and modernise payroll operations, making it an ideal environment for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
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Contact Detail:

CMA Recruitment Group Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Payroll Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the specific payroll systems mentioned in the job description, particularly Sage 50 Payroll. If you haven't used it before, consider taking an online course or tutorial to boost your confidence and demonstrate your commitment to mastering the tools required for the role.

✨Tip Number 2

Highlight your experience with process improvements and automation in your discussions. Prepare examples of how you've successfully implemented changes in previous roles that led to increased efficiency or accuracy in payroll processing.

✨Tip Number 3

Brush up on your knowledge of UK payroll legislation and compliance requirements. Being able to discuss recent changes or challenges in payroll legislation during your interview will show that you're proactive and well-informed.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your communication skills, especially how you've explained complex payroll information to non-financial stakeholders. This is crucial for the role, so think of specific instances where you've successfully communicated payroll details to employees or management.

We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Manager

End-to-End Payroll Processing
UK Payroll Legislation Knowledge
Payroll Systems Proficiency (Sage 50 Payroll desirable)
Advanced Excel Skills (Pivots, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP)
Process Improvement
Payroll Automation Implementation
Data Protection Compliance
Statutory Reporting
Strong Communication Skills
Attention to Detail
Deadline Management
Adaptability
Employee Self-Service Initiatives
Experience with P60s, P11Ds, and Tax Codes

Some tips for your application 🫡

Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of the Payroll Manager position. Familiarise yourself with the key tasks such as end-to-end payroll processing and compliance with legislation.

Tailor Your CV: Update your CV to highlight your extensive UK payroll experience, particularly with large employee groups. Emphasise your skills in payroll systems and process improvement, as these are crucial for the role.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for payroll management and your ability to lead process improvements. Mention specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your qualifications for this role.

Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is essential for a Payroll Manager.

How to prepare for a job interview at CMA Recruitment Group

✨Know Your Payroll Inside Out

Make sure you have a solid understanding of the payroll processes, especially end-to-end monthly payroll processing. Be prepared to discuss your experience with starters, leavers, and variable pay elements, as these are crucial for the role.

✨Showcase Your Process Improvement Skills

Since the role involves leading payroll-related process improvements, come ready with examples of how you've successfully implemented automation or self-service initiatives in previous positions. This will demonstrate your proactive approach to enhancing efficiency.

✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Legislation

Brush up on UK payroll legislation, including tax codes, P60s, and auto-enrolment regulations. Being able to discuss compliance confidently will show that you understand the importance of adhering to legal requirements in payroll management.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, such as how you would handle discrepancies in payroll or manage tight deadlines. Think of specific scenarios from your past experiences where you successfully navigated challenges.

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