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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a large payroll operation for over 16,500 colleagues across the UK.
- Company: Join a major organisation with a focus on accuracy and compliance.
- Benefits: Competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving payroll excellence in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing complex payroll operations and leading teams.
- Other info: Dynamic role with a commitment to continuous improvement and development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Are you an experienced Payroll Leader looking to take ownership of a large, complex, and high‑profile payroll operation? This is an exciting opportunity to join a major organisation and lead the delivery of payroll services for over 16,500 colleagues across the UK. We are looking for a confident, people‑focused Payroll Manager who thrives in a fast‑paced environment, brings deep technical expertise, and is passionate about driving accuracy, compliance, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership & Team Management
- Responsible for the coordination and day‑to‑day activities of the UK payroll team delivering payroll for approx. 16,500 colleagues across 3 monthly payrolls and 1 weekly payroll.
- Manage payroll workloads to meet operational requirements and service levels.
- Performance manage, coach, mentor, and develop the payroll team to build capability and drive excellence.
- Manage and resolve escalations relating to payroll queries.
- Payroll Delivery & Compliance
- Ensure all payrolls are processed accurately, compliantly, and on time.
- Administer employee benefit plans within payroll.
- Oversee compliance with all statutory reporting and filing requirements.
- Prepare monthly, quarterly, and year‑end payroll reports.
- Monitor accurate processing of new starters, leavers, transfers, promotions, and terminations.
- Prepare and review payroll account reconciliations.
- Ensure payroll information and records are maintained in line with statutory requirements.
- Support internal and external audits related to payroll.
- Process payroll for Executive, Board, and Director‑level employees.
- Systems, Processes & Continuous Improvement
- Review, refine, and improve payroll policies, procedures, and controls.
- Oversee the maintenance and accuracy of employee data systems.
- Interpret and apply current and emerging HMRC and Employment Law legislation, including (but not limited to): NMW/NLWP11D, Gender Pay, HMRC Job Retention Scheme.
- Cross‑Border Collaboration
- Work in partnership with the Non‑UK Payroll Manager to ensure accurate payment of secondments and transfers between UK and international payrolls.
About You
You will be a great fit if you bring:
- Proven experience managing large, complex payroll operations.
- Strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation and HMRC requirements.
- Experience leading and developing high‑performing teams.
- A proactive, solutions‑focused approach with a commitment to continuous improvement.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Experience with SAP or similar large‑scale payroll systems (preferred).
Payroll Manager in Leeds employer: Hays Senior Finance
Contact Detail:
Hays Senior Finance Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll Manager in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the payroll industry and let them know you're on the hunt for a Payroll Manager role. 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 knowledge of UK payroll legislation and HMRC requirements. Be ready to discuss how you've handled complex payroll operations in the past, as this will show you're the right fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that align with your values and career goals. Use our website to find roles that excite you and tailor your approach to each one, highlighting your leadership and compliance skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Mention something specific from your conversation to show your genuine interest in the position and the company.
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Manager in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Payroll Manager role. Highlight your experience with large payroll operations and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Expertise: In your cover letter, showcase your deep technical expertise in UK payroll legislation and HMRC requirements. We love seeing candidates who are passionate about compliance and continuous improvement, so let that shine through!
Be Personable: Remember, we’re looking for a people-focused Payroll Manager! Use your application to demonstrate your strong communication skills and how you’ve successfully managed and developed teams in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hays Senior Finance
✨Know Your Payroll Legislation
Brush up on UK payroll legislation and HMRC requirements before the interview. Being able to discuss specific laws and how they impact payroll operations will show your expertise and confidence in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led and developed teams in previous roles. Highlight your coaching and mentoring experiences, as well as any improvements you've driven within payroll processes.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Think of scenarios where you've resolved payroll issues or improved compliance. Be ready to share these stories, focusing on your proactive approach and solutions-focused mindset.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Their Systems
If you know the company uses SAP or similar systems, do a bit of research on them. Understanding how these systems work will help you speak confidently about your experience and how you can contribute to their payroll operations.
