At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the monthly payroll process for 450 employees and improve payroll operations.
- Company: Global manufacturer with a commitment to inclusivity and employee development.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, up to 39 days’ holiday, strong pension scheme, and health initiatives.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and contribute to innovative payroll solutions.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in payroll management while enjoying a flexible work environment.
- Qualifications: Significant payroll experience and strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation required.
Location: Gateshead
Contract: Permanent, Full Time
Hybrid working: Up to two days per week from home
A highly successful global manufacturer is looking for an experienced Payroll Lead to take ownership of its monthly UK payroll for approximately 450 employees. This standalone Payroll Lead role offers the opportunity to manage a varied payroll operation while contributing to process improvements and the future development of the payroll function.
Working closely with HR, Finance and the external payroll provider, the Payroll Lead will ensure payroll information is accurate, authorised and processed within agreed deadlines. The role will also provide support across pensions, employee benefits, company cars, reporting and payroll-related projects.
Key responsibilities
- Managing the end-to-end monthly payroll process
- Preparing, validating and submitting payroll data
- Reviewing payroll outputs, reconciliations and audit trails
- Ensuring compliance with UK payroll legislation and HMRC requirements
- Managing statutory payments, year-end processes, P11Ds and PSAs
- Supporting pensions, benefits and company car administration
- Producing payroll, overtime and labour cost reports
- Acting as the main contact for payroll queries
- Identifying opportunities to improve payroll systems and processes
About you
The successful Payroll Lead will have significant payroll experience, strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation and experience working with payroll systems and external providers. The Payroll Lead will be highly accurate, organised and confident working independently. Strong Excel, communication and data analysis skills are also important.
Experience of iTrent, IR35, international payroll arrangements, employee benefits or a manufacturing environment would be advantageous but is not essential.
Benefits include hybrid working, up to 39 days’ holiday, a strong pension scheme, health initiatives and a subsidised canteen.
We’re committed to promoting inclusive opportunities. If you’re excited about this Payroll Lead role but don’t meet every single requirement, we still encourage you to apply, your unique perspective could be exactly what they’re looking for.
Payroll Lead employer: Extension Recruitment
As a Maintenance Technician with us, you'll join a dynamic team dedicated to excellence in manufacturing. We offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. Located in a thriving industrial area, our company provides unique opportunities for hands-on experience and career advancement in a rewarding environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll Lead
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Extension Recruitment!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Extension Recruitment.
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Extension Recruitment. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Extension Recruitment and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Extension Recruitment. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Extension Recruitment's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Extension Recruitment
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Extension Recruitment.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Extension Recruitment will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Extension Recruitment and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
