Payroll Officer in Darlington

Payroll Officer (Interim) Are you an experienced Payroll Officer looking to make a significant impact within a dynamic and supportive environment? This role offers the chance to be at the heart of an organisation, supporting them through a busy period, ensuring the smooth and accurate delivery of payroll and pensions services. If you thrive on precision, compliance, and delivering high-quality service, this position is tailored for you. We are looking for an experienced Payroll Officer on a temporary basis for a period of 12 week - this is subject to an extension and quite possibly an opportunity for a longer term position. Key Duties and Responsibilities Payroll Processing and Administration: - Manage the end-to-end monthly payroll process, ensuring accuracy and compliance. - Process starters, leavers, contractual changes, and various pay variations. - Ensure accurate tax, National Insurance, and pension deductions. - Act as the primary contact for payroll queries, resolving issues promptly. - Maintain payroll records and personnel files in line with GDPR. Pensions and Statutory Returns: - Maintain accurate pension records (TPS and LGPS) - Prepare and submit monthly and annual pension returns. - Complete statutory reporting accurately and on time. - Liaise with pension providers, HMRC, and external bodies. Payroll Reporting and Data Management: - Produce accurate payroll reports for senior leaders and the People Team. - Investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies. - Ensure payroll data aligns with staffing structures and pay policies. Payroll Establishment and Workforce Data: - Maintain the Trust’s staffing establishment. - Provide regular establishment and payroll reports. - Support staffing administration and recruitment processes. People Systems, Processes, and Projects: - Support the delivery of key activities and projects aligned to the Trust’s People Strategy. - Contribute to the implementation and development of HR and payroll systems. - Work collaboratively to improve processes and data quality. Skills and Experience - Significant practical experience in payroll administration. - Strong technical payroll knowledge, including taxation and statutory requirements. - Experience with end-to-end payroll administration and statutory returns. - Experience working with pensions (TPS and/or LGPS would be beneficial). - Strong Excel and Microsoft Office skills. - Excellent attention to detail and accuracy. - Ability to communicate effectively with a range of stakeholders. - Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Desirable: - Experience in an education or public sector environment. - Experience with HR/payroll systems and system implementations or upgrades