At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage pensioner benefits and payroll services while promoting digital self-service.
- Company: Join a top 10 LGPS fund with a strong commitment to community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and extensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Supportive team environment with a focus on continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in people's lives while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of pensions, payroll, and strong relationship-building skills.
The predicted salary is between 48129 - 56622 £ per year.
Pensioner & Payroll Manager Permanent, Full Time £48,129 to £56,622 per annum Location: Chelmsford Working Style: Anywhere worker Closing Date: 9th June 2026
*This is a hybrid-working role contractually based in Chelmsford. The role allows for some home-working with a requirement to attend the office 2-3 days per week, in line with business need.
The Essex Pension Fund is one of 86 pension funds that make up the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS). The LGPS is the largest defined benefit pension scheme in England and Wales with a fund value of over £340 billion. On its own, our Fund looks after 182,000 Scheme Members, over 800 Employers and is valued at over £13 billion, placing us easily within the top 10 LGPS funds in the country.
What are you going to do?
- Accountable for managing the Team's delivery of life event pension implications including all pensioner benefits along with assessment and cessation of children's benefits.
- Accountable for promoting digital self‑service use of the Funds Universal Pensions Management system to improve delivery to employers and members.
- Lead the planning, prioritisation and own implementation of the provision of pensioner payroll service to all beneficiaries.
- Accountable for the Fund's National Fraud Initiative (NFI) responsibilities, liaison with audit/other bodies and own NFI risks in risk register.
- Experience in proactively managing and supporting staff/colleagues while advocating continual professional development.
What we're looking for?
We love people with great attitudes; it isn’t only about having experience. We’re looking for driven, hard‑working team players who are eager to learn, take pride in their work, and bring enthusiasm, reliability and a friendly, flexible approach. We offer a wide range of training and support, from on‑the‑job learning with colleagues to resources through Essex County Council’s My Learning platform and opportunities via the Local Government Association. So if you have knowledge of pensions and payroll, bring a supportive mindset, and are committed to continuous improvement for yourself and those around you, we’d love to hear from you.
Essential Criteria
- Deep, current knowledge of LGPS pension scheme administration and pensioner payroll operations.
- Experience managing financial controls, audit relationships, and risk registers.
- Experience in building credible, influential relationships with colleagues and external bodies.
We welcome all qualified applicants and encourage those with disabilities to apply.
Pensioner & Payroll Manager in Chelmsford employer: Essex County Counci
As a Pensioner & Payroll Manager with the Essex Pension Fund, you will join a dynamic team dedicated to managing one of the largest pension schemes in England and Wales. Our hybrid-working model promotes a healthy work-life balance, while our commitment to professional development ensures that you have access to extensive training resources and opportunities for growth. With a supportive culture that values teamwork and innovation, we are an excellent employer for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the public sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Pensioner & Payroll Manager in Chelmsford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the pensions and payroll sector. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the Essex Pension Fund and its values. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for improving pension services and how you can contribute to our team’s success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, especially those related to managing financial controls and building relationships. We want to see your confidence shine through, so rehearse with a friend or in front of a mirror!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team and ready to embrace the hybrid working style we offer.
We think you need these skills to ace Pensioner & Payroll Manager in Chelmsford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Pensioner & Payroll Manager role. Highlight your knowledge of LGPS pension scheme administration and any relevant payroll operations to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to showcase your enthusiasm for the role and how your background aligns with our needs. Don’t forget to mention your commitment to continuous improvement and team collaboration.
Showcase Your Soft Skills:We love team players! In your application, emphasise your ability to build relationships and support colleagues. Share examples of how you've contributed to a positive work environment or helped others grow professionally.
Apply Through Our Website:To make sure your application gets to us, apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we see your application and can consider you for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Essex County Counci
✨Know Your Pensions Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the LGPS pension scheme and payroll operations. Familiarise yourself with the latest updates and regulations, as well as the specific responsibilities outlined in the job description. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also committed to understanding the intricacies of the system.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since they’re looking for team players, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with colleagues in the past. Highlight any experiences where you’ve supported others or contributed to a positive team environment. This will demonstrate that you embody the friendly and flexible approach they value.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially regarding financial controls and risk management. Think of specific scenarios where you’ve had to manage risks or liaise with audit bodies. Practising these responses will help you articulate your experience clearly and confidently during the interview.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
They value candidates who are committed to personal and professional development. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve pursued learning opportunities in the past and how you plan to continue growing in this role. Mention any relevant training or resources you’ve used, showing that you’re proactive about your career.
