At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage payroll and benefits, ensuring accuracy and compliance while enhancing employee experience.
- Company: Join a top-rated tech workplace committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, double-matched pension, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities and a vibrant company culture await you.
- Why this job: Be the payroll expert and make a real impact in a supportive team environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in UK payroll management and strong attention to detail required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
Description
We're looking for an experienced payroll and benefits professional to join our People Team on a 12-month fixed-term contract, covering a period of maternity leave.
This role is responsible for the smooth and accurate delivery of payroll and benefits administration across the organisation, working closely with our external payroll provider, the Finance Team and People Team.
You'll act as the go-to expert for payroll and benefits, ensuring compliance, delivering an excellent employee experience and identifying opportunities to improve processes and efficiency.
- WHAT YOU’LL DO (Duties)
- Own and manage the monthly payroll cycle, ensuring accurate and timely processing.
- Liaise with our outsourced payroll provider and validate payroll submissions.
- Manage the annual salary review, bonus and promotions cycles.
- Lead on and manage the project to implement the of Payrolling of Benefits in Kind with the payroll provider.
- Administer employee benefits, including pensions, private medical insurance and flexible benefits.
- Respond to employee payroll and benefits queries.
- Produce payroll reports, reconciliations and support internal and external audit requirements.
- Maintain accurate employee data and payroll records.
- Support compliance activities, including payroll legislation.
Requirements
- WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR (Experience)
- Proven experience of managing or coordinating UK payroll.
- Strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation, tax, pensions and statutory payments.
- Experience working with payroll providers and benefits administration.
- Excellent attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy.
- Strong Excel and HR/payroll systems experience.
- A collaborative, customer-focused approach and the ability to handle confidential information with discretion
- Deadline for applications -
- 2nd October 2026
- Salary range - £45,000 - £55,000 per annum (subject to skills and experience)
Like the sound of what we do but unsure if this is the right role for you?
If you are interested in joining Digital Catapult and hearing about our latest vacancies, please email across your CV to digital-catapult@jobs. workablemail. com
Pre-Employment Background Checking Process
Due to the nature of our work across government and public sector contracts, including working with sensitive information, all applicants will need to successfully complete the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance process prior to starting employment.
Commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We recognise and value the advantages and opportunities that come with having people from diverse backgrounds working with us and it is our ambition to build an organisation which is representative and reflective of UK society.
We welcome applications from neurodivergent candidates, candidates from minority and underrepresented groups and from candidates with more or less experience, provided the requisite skills can be demonstrated.
As members of the Disability Confident Scheme, we guarantee to interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the vacancy.
Please do speak with us about adjustments that could support you through our interview process.
Digital Catapult is an equal opportunities employer.
Benefits
- We are in the UK’s Top 100 Best Workplaces and placed in the UK’s Best Workplaces in Tech and Large Organisations.
- Digital Catapult is a Disability Confident Committed Level 1 Employer.
- Excellent holiday package: 25 days annual leave, Bank Holidays and 3 days between Christmas and New Year:
- Double-matched pension up to 10% of your salary;
- Discretionary company bonus
- 4% of your salary to use towards selecting benefits that work for you, including health cash plan, Private Medical Insurance; buying holiday, topping up your pension;
- E-Vehicle Scheme; Cycle2Work; Tech Scheme; Gym Discounts; Give As you Earn; Perk Pal;
- Life insurance 4x salary;
- Free to access EAP & Financial Wellbeing advice;
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave;
- Hybrid working - with great offices to work from 2 days per week with some roles needing to be onsite more regularly to ensure the successful delivery of our work;
- Investment in your ongoing learning and development with us;
• Company social events throughout the year and free office snacks!
Senior Advisor, Payroll and Benefits (Maternity Cover) in London employer: Digital Catapult
Digital Catapult is an exceptional employer, recognised as one of the UK's Top 100 Best Workplaces, offering a vibrant and inclusive culture that champions diversity and employee engagement. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from a generous holiday package, hybrid working options, and a range of health and wellness initiatives, making it an ideal environment for those looking to grow their careers in innovation and technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Advisor, Payroll and Benefits (Maternity Cover) in 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 Digital Catapult 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 Senior Advisor, Payroll and Benefits (Maternity Cover) in 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 Digital Catapult. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Digital Catapult
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at Digital Catapult, 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 Digital Catapult 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 Digital Catapult.
✨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 Digital Catapult.