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- Tasks: Lead a team to deliver accurate payroll services and manage end-to-end payroll operations.
- Company: Join a local authority committed to efficient public service and community support.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive pay, and holiday pay.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving innovation in payroll processes and compliance.
- Qualifications: Professional payroll qualification and experience in public sector payroll required.
- Other info: This role offers a chance to influence payroll systems and improve service delivery.
Location: BS1 6AL, Hybrid working
Start date: 30/04/2025
Contract Duration: 3+ months
Working Hours: Mon - Fri, 09:00 - 17:00, 37 hours per week
Pay Rate: 22.65 per hour plus holiday pay
Job Purpose
Lead a team to ensure efficient, timely and accurate payroll services in line with current legislation and conditions of service. Provide strategic oversight and identify opportunities for service development and efficiency.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide leadership and direct line management to the payroll team.
- Manage end-to-end payroll operations for council employees, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely delivery.
- Act as subject matter expert on complex payroll issues including maternity, sickness, pension contributions, and multiple employment.
- Work closely with HR and recruitment teams to onboard new employees and ensure accurate payroll setup.
- Lead the payroll element of implementing new systems and procedures, and ensure readiness for pension auto-enrolment.
- Deliver accurate and timely payroll reporting for HR and internal stakeholders.
- Champion innovation and continuous improvement - exploring automation and modernisation opportunities.
- Take ownership of payroll-related audits and compliance tasks.
- Represent payroll within cross-functional HR projects and working groups.
What We’re Looking For:
- Professional payroll qualification (e.g. CIPP or equivalent).
- Experience within a local authority or public sector payroll environment.
- Proven experience managing or supervising a payroll team.
- Extensive knowledge of payroll legislation, PAYE, National Insurance and statutory deductions.
- Ability to interpret terms and conditions of employment and apply them accurately.
- Strong IT skills with excellent working knowledge of payroll systems.
- Proven ability to lead on process improvements and service transformation.
- Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively across teams and with external stakeholders.
- Excellent time management skills with the ability to meet strict deadlines.
Payroll Manager employer: i-Jobs
Contact Detail:
i-Jobs Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific payroll legislation and regulations relevant to local authorities. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to understanding the nuances of the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the payroll field, especially those who have experience in local authority settings. Engaging with them can provide insights into the challenges they face and how you can position yourself as a solution.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing any previous experiences where you successfully managed a team or led a project. Highlighting these experiences can set you apart as a candidate who can effectively lead the payroll team.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your ideas for process improvements and automation in payroll operations. Being able to articulate innovative solutions will demonstrate your forward-thinking approach and align with the role's emphasis on continuous improvement.
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your professional payroll qualifications and relevant experience in local authority or public sector payroll environments. Emphasise your leadership skills and any specific achievements in managing payroll teams.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that addresses the key responsibilities outlined in the job description. Mention your experience with payroll legislation, compliance, and your ability to lead process improvements. Show enthusiasm for the role and the organisation.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your strong IT skills and familiarity with payroll systems. Provide examples of how you've successfully managed complex payroll issues and collaborated with HR teams to onboard new employees.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or inconsistencies. Ensure that all information is accurate and that your application presents you in the best possible light.
How to prepare for a job interview at i-Jobs
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Payroll Manager, you'll be leading a team. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Highlight any specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to motivate and guide others.
✨Demonstrate Your Technical Knowledge
Make sure you brush up on payroll legislation, PAYE, and National Insurance before the interview. Be ready to answer questions about complex payroll issues, such as maternity leave and pension contributions, showcasing your expertise in these areas.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think of examples where you've improved payroll processes or handled compliance audits. This will show your potential employer that you can think critically and act decisively.
✨Highlight Your IT Proficiency
Since strong IT skills are essential for this role, be prepared to discuss your experience with payroll systems. Mention any specific software you've used and how you've leveraged technology to enhance payroll operations or improve efficiency.
