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- Tasks: Manage payroll processes and improve HR systems for a dynamic organisation.
- Company: Values-led organisation prioritising people and continuous improvement.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, immediate start, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Shape better systems and ensure accuracy while collaborating with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: Strong UK payroll expertise and experience with HR/payroll systems.
- Other info: Role open to women applicants only, promoting equality and diversity.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Payroll is more than payslips. It’s trust, accuracy, and systems that quietly work so people can do their best work.
We’re looking for an experienced Payroll & Systems Manager to take ownership of payroll governance and HR/payroll systems for an organisation of around 350 staff, spanning salaried, hourly, and casual contracts. Payroll is outsourced, but this role is very much hands-on. You’ll be the expert voice in the room, the bridge between People & Culture, Finance, and our payroll provider, and the lead on shaping better, smarter systems for the future.
Responsibilities
- Owning the end-to-end payroll process, ensuring accuracy, timelines, and full UK statutory compliance
- Acting as the internal payroll specialist, confidently reviewing calculations, deductions, pensions, and statutory payments
- Managing payroll inputs for variable hours and timesheet-based staff
- Building a strong, effective relationship with our outsourced payroll provider and holding service standards high
- Spotting risks, fixing inefficiencies, and reducing manual workarounds through better processes and cleaner data
- Leading the selection and implementation of a new HR and payroll system, from business case to go-live
- Acting as system owner post-implementation, ensuring controls, optimisation, and user confidence
- Producing meaningful payroll and people data reports that support financial planning and decision-making
- Working closely with People Operations, Finance, and managers to make sure changes are processed smoothly and on time
About you
You’re someone who likes things to work properly and isn’t afraid to roll up your sleeves to make that happen. You’ll bring:
- Strong, practical UK payroll expertise and a forensic eye for detail
- Experience managing payroll across multiple employment types and variable pay
- Confidence working with outsourced payroll providers and challenging when things aren’t right
- A track record of improving payroll or HR systems and documenting clear, resilient processes
- Experience leading or supporting HR/payroll system implementations
- The ability to explain payroll and systems clearly to non-specialists
- A collaborative, calm approach, even when deadlines loom
Harris Hill and the organisations we work with are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community. However, this post is restricted to women applicants due to the nature of the role. The Occupational Requirement under Schedule 9 (part 1) of the Equality Act 2010 applies.
You’ll be joining a values-led organisation where people matter, systems should support rather than hinder, and continuous improvement is actively encouraged. This role has real influence, visibility, and the chance to leave things better than you found them.
If you are immediately available and care about accuracy, integrity, and building systems that serve people well, please apply online today. I would love to hear from you!
Payroll & Systems Manager in London employer: HARRIS HILL
Contact Detail:
HARRIS HILL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll & Systems Manager in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the payroll and HR world. 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 or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your payroll knowledge and systems expertise. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've improved processes or tackled challenges in previous roles. Show them you’re not just a candidate, but the solution they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’re the perfect fit for their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a streamlined process that makes it easy for you to showcase your skills. Plus, it helps us keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the right roles. Let’s get you that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll & Systems Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Payroll & Systems Manager. Highlight your UK payroll expertise and any experience with HR/payroll systems. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about payroll and how you can improve our systems. Be sure to mention your collaborative approach and any specific achievements that demonstrate your expertise.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills: In your application, don’t just list your experiences—tell us how you've tackled challenges in payroll processes before. We love candidates who can spot inefficiencies and suggest better ways of working!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity right away!
How to prepare for a job interview at HARRIS HILL
✨Know Your Payroll Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your UK payroll knowledge before the interview. Be ready to discuss specific processes, compliance issues, and how you've tackled challenges in the past. This role requires a forensic eye for detail, so be prepared to showcase your expertise.
✨Showcase Your Systems Savvy
Since this position involves leading the selection and implementation of new HR and payroll systems, come armed with examples of systems you've improved or implemented. Talk about the impact these changes had on efficiency and accuracy, and how you documented those processes.
✨Build Rapport with the Interviewers
This role is all about collaboration, so demonstrate your ability to work well with others. Engage with your interviewers, ask insightful questions, and show that you can communicate complex payroll concepts clearly to non-specialists. A calm and collaborative approach will go a long way!
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think of examples where you've spotted risks or fixed inefficiencies in payroll processes. Be ready to explain your thought process and the steps you took to achieve better outcomes.