Payroll Assistant in Milton Keynes

Our client has a permanent vacancy for a Payroll Assistant to support the Payroll and Benefits Manager in ensuring the accurate and timely processing of employee pay. The role focuses on maintaining up-to-date employee records, preparing payroll data, and providing administrative support across payroll and benefits activities. The Payroll Assistant works closely with HR and Finance to ensure information is accurate and employees receive clear, timely responses to payroll queries.

Role and Responsibilities

• Assist the Payroll and Benefits Manager with the preparation and processing of payroll for the UK workforce.
• Enter and update payroll data, including hours worked, overtime, bonuses, deductions, and salary sacrifice details.
• Check payroll information for accuracy and follow up on missing or incorrect data.
• Support basic payroll reconciliations by gathering information and highlighting discrepancies.
• Maintain accurate employee information within the payroll system.
• Work with HR to process new starters, leavers, contractual changes, annual leave, and absence records.
• Assist with the administration of employee benefits, including the Arval Ignition salary sacrifice car scheme, annual insurance declarations and company medical insurance.
• Ensure all payroll related documents are filed and stored correctly.
• Assist with preparing information for HMRC submissions, including RTI files, under the guidance of the Payroll Manager.
• Support year end activities such as P11D preparation by gathering data and checking records.
• Help maintain payroll calendars, deadlines, and checklists.
• Support internal and external audits by preparing requested documentation.
• Assist with routine process updates and system changes as directed.

Requirements

• Experience in a payroll, HR, or finance administrative role (desirable).
• CIPP qualification or willingness to work towards one (desirable).
• Basic understanding of payroll processes or accounting principles.
• Experience using HRIS or payroll systems (training provided).

Core Skills

• Strong attention to detail and numerical accuracy.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
• Clear communication and strong customer service skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information appropriately.
• Well organised, able to meet deadlines, and comfortable working in a fast paced environment.

Benefits

• As the role requires occasional regional travel there is the benefit of a £3,000 per annum car allowance. A driving licence is essential.
• 26 days holiday + option to purchase up to 5 days.
• Pension 4% employee / 7% employer.
• Axa Private Health cover.
• Life Assurance 3x annual salary.
• Income protection 50% of annual salary.
• Company sick pay increasing with service.
• Travel and parking allowance.