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- Tasks: Lead a payroll team and ensure compliance with payroll processes.
- Company: Join a dynamic public sector organisation in Stratford.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, potential for temp-to-perm, and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by managing complex payroll operations.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in payroll and strong technical knowledge required.
- Other info: Opportunity to work on SAP migration and enhance ERP skills.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
This role is Inside IR35.
Clearance: BPSS
Location: Stratford (Hybrid – approx. 50%, may need more during busy periods)
Contract Length: 31/07/2026
Any particular experience/sector you would like the candidate to have? Public sector preferred for governance and pace. Large-scale payroll experience desirable.
Top 3 Essential Skills
- Leadership and team management in payroll.
- In-house payroll delivery experience.
- Strong technical payroll knowledge (HMRC, PSA, compliance).
What must you see on the CV?
- Proven experience leading a payroll team.
- Delivered in-house payroll solutions (not outsourced).
- Strong understanding of payroll processes, HMRC obligations, and year-end requirements.
- Experience managing complex payroll operations.
Details of the Role
Interim Head of Payroll to cover departure of incumbent (leaving week before 28th February). Busy period: multiple payrolls, pay awards, and SAP system migration (moving from SAP on-premise to SuccessFactors). 12-week data validation project with provider and implementation partner. Role involves leadership, oversight, and support for payroll team (16 employees, 3 direct reports). No data entry – focus on validation and compliance. Could be extended beyond 6 months; potential temp-to-perm option. Opportunity to add value in ERP space if candidate has SAP/SuccessFactors experience.
Top 3 Desirable Skills
- SAP and/or SuccessFactors experience.
- Public sector experience (understanding governance and pace).
- Weekly payroll experience (nice to have).
Desirable
CIPD or payroll qualifications desirable but not mandatory.
Head of Payroll in London employer: ComXps
Contact Detail:
ComXps Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Payroll in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the payroll and public sector. Let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities, and who knows? They might just have the inside scoop on openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your technical payroll knowledge. Make sure you can confidently discuss HMRC obligations and compliance. We want you to shine when they ask about your experience with in-house payroll delivery!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully managed payroll teams in the past. Highlight your ability to lead during busy periods, especially with multiple payrolls and system migrations.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. Let's get you that Head of Payroll role!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Payroll in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your leadership and team management experience in payroll. We want to see how you've delivered in-house payroll solutions and your understanding of HMRC obligations, so don’t hold back on those details!
Showcase Your Skills: Emphasise your strong technical payroll knowledge and any experience with SAP or SuccessFactors. If you’ve managed complex payroll operations, let us know! This is your chance to shine.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your experience and skills are easy to spot. Bullet points can help us quickly see what you bring to the table!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at ComXps
✨Know Your Payroll Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your technical payroll knowledge, especially around HMRC obligations and compliance. Be ready to discuss your experience with in-house payroll delivery and how you've managed complex payroll operations in the past.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Payroll, leadership is key. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a payroll team, focusing on team management and oversight. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you supported your team through them.
✨Familiarise Yourself with SAP/SuccessFactors
Since there's a migration from SAP to SuccessFactors, it’s crucial to highlight any relevant experience you have with these systems. If you’ve been involved in similar projects, be ready to share your insights and how you can add value in the ERP space.
✨Understand the Public Sector Landscape
If you have public sector experience, make sure to emphasise it. Understanding governance and the pace of public sector operations can set you apart. Be prepared to discuss how this experience has shaped your approach to payroll management.
