Payroll Specialist in London

Frontier Economics is an economics consultancy that tackles the big questions facing governments, businesses and society. We help our clients to analyse and understand their markets and to formulate strategies based on sound economics. The methods and models we use are often complex, but our advice is always succinct, clear and honest. The company has grown rapidly since it was founded almost 27 years ago and currently has around 500 staff working across nine European offices (Amsterdam, Berlin, Brussels, Cologne, Dublin, London, Madrid, Paris and Prague). The company is employee-owned and has a strong culture of openness and employee engagement.

The Finance Team is responsible for all accounting and financial operations across the firm. This includes payroll, financial reporting, accounts preparation, invoicing, and supporting strategic decision-making through financial insight. The team works closely with stakeholders across the business to ensure accurate and efficient financial processes.

As Payroll Advisor, you'll take ownership of the UK payroll while coordinating payroll services across our European offices. You'll work closely with HR, Finance and external payroll providers to ensure our people are paid accurately and on time while delivering an excellent employee experience.

What you’ll be doing:

• UK Payroll: Manage the end-to-end UK monthly payroll. Be the first point of contact for UK payroll queries (pensions, parental leave/pay, benefits, tax, etc.). Prepare UK year-end reporting (including P11Ds). Process payroll journals and payroll payments through Workday and online banking.
• European Payrolls: Co-ordinate with payroll providers across Europe. Support local offices with payroll queries. Ensure statutory compliance.
• Reporting & Controls: Accurate and timely record keeping; Updating salary forecasts and other earnings-related schedules; Calculations and application of the unique Frontier Bonus Scheme, including monthly reconciliations; Ensure payroll processes comply with HMRC requirements, GDPR and internal controls. Identify opportunities to improve payroll processes, controls and systems.

Essential Requirements:

• Strong proficiency with Excel, including XLOOKUP (VLOOKUP) and pivot tables;
• UK payroll experience.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience using payroll and HR systems (Workday desirable).
• A collaborative, proactive approach and willingness to support colleagues.

Desirable:

• Multi-country payroll experience.
• Experience working with outsourced payroll providers.
• Workday experience.
• Sage Payroll experience.
• CIPP qualification (or working towards one).
• Knowledge of European payroll legislation.
• Additional European language skills (German would be especially beneficial).

At Frontier Economics, we are entirely employee-owned, meaning every team member has a voice in shaping the company’s future. Our collaborative culture encourages innovation, open dialogue, and shared success. Our stimulating and thought-provoking projects are complemented by a supportive and dynamic work environment, designed to help you thrive and grow.

We also offer:

• Hybrid Working: Employees are expected to work in the office at least two days a week, with flexibility for remote work.
• Holiday Entitlement: 28 days of annual leave, plus public holidays, with the option to purchase up to 10 additional days of holiday per year.
• Parental Pay: Enhanced pay of 26 weeks full pay for primary carers and 10 weeks full pay for partners.
• Learning & Development: Extensive L&D opportunities, including Career Development Reviews with support from a dedicated Mentor.
• Private Health Insurance: Bupa health insurance with optional family coverage (taxes paid by the employees and add on for partners & children at an additional cost). Additional cover (e.g., optical, dental) can be added at the employee's expense.
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): Free, confidential support for work-life balance, health, family issues, or job-related challenges, available for you and your immediate family members.
• Income Protection Insurance: All employees are covered by Frontier’s Group Income Protection Scheme for long-term illness or disability.
• Life Insurance: Company-funded Group Life Assurance Scheme, covering all permanent employees from their start date.
• Cross-Office Travel & Secondments: Opportunities for secondments to different offices or practices to expand skills and experience.

If you have any questions or would like any additional information please email recruitment@frontier-economics.com. We are looking forward to receiving your application!

Frontier Economics is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, age, or any other status protected by law. We are determined that everyone has an equal chance to join us and progress their career with Frontier. We care about creating an inclusive atmosphere and are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in all its forms.