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- Tasks: Lead a high-performing payroll service and ensure compliance with complex regulations.
- Company: Forward-thinking Council dedicated to high-quality public services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact while shaping payroll systems at scale.
- Qualifications: In-depth payroll knowledge and experience in managing large payroll functions.
- Other info: Senior leadership role with strategic visibility and growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you a payroll expert who thrives in complexity, leads with confidence and understands the risk, scale and precision required to run a large public sector payroll function? We are seeking an exceptional Payroll Manager to lead a high‑performing payroll service within a forward‑thinking Council, responsible for processing over 6,500 salaries and 8,000 pension payments each month. This is a senior leadership role within Finance, where technical expertise, commercial awareness and strategic thinking are equally important. This is not a transactional payroll role. This is about ownership, accountability and influence.
The Opportunity
As Payroll Manager, you will be the Council's subject matter expert — the person senior leaders turn to for assurance, clarity and confidence. You will take full responsibility for the integrity, efficiency and compliance of the payroll function, ensuring that payments are accurate, legislation is correctly interpreted and the Council is protected from financial penalties and reputational risk.
- Interpreting complex HMRC legislation and statutory regulations
- Ensuring all payroll returns are processed accurately and on time
- Overseeing over‑payment recovery and financial controls
- Leading internal and external audits
- Preparing complex casework and tribunal documentation where required
- Leading contractual negotiations for payroll services to secure value for money
- Overseeing the implementation of new services and payroll technology
- Developing and reviewing payroll systems, policies and contingency plans
You will also contribute strategically — producing high‑quality reports for senior leadership, supporting savings programmes and helping shape the future direction of payroll within the Council.
Leadership & Impact
You will lead and develop a skilled payroll team, directly managing:
- Payroll Team Leader
- Payroll Technical Lead
You will create a culture of accountability, professionalism and continuous improvement — setting high standards, developing talent and ensuring performance is consistently strong. You will deputise for the Head of Service where required and represent payroll at senior and strategic forums.
About You
You are an experienced payroll leader who combines technical depth with strategic awareness. You bring:
- In‑depth knowledge of HMRC legislation, PAYE, tax, NI and pensions regulations
- Strong understanding of Local Government Terms and Conditions (NJC, Teachers, Soulbury and local agreements)
- Expertise in financial management, reconciliation and budget oversight
- Experience managing audits and complex compliance frameworks
- Strong knowledge of GDPR, data protection and financial regulations
- Proven experience leading and developing teams
- Experience delivering efficiencies and managing service budgets
- Confidence in influencing senior stakeholders and managing complex relationships
You may hold a relevant degree or professional payroll qualification, or have significant experience managing a large payroll function.
Why Join This Council?
This Council is committed to delivering high‑quality public services while creating a professional, supportive and forward‑looking working environment.
- A senior leadership role with real strategic visibility
- The opportunity to shape payroll systems and controls at scale
- Meaningful impact across the organisation
- Competitive salary at PO8
- Long‑term stability and career development within local government
If you are ready to take full ownership of a complex, high‑volume payroll service — and want to lead with confidence in an organisation where your expertise will truly matter — we would welcome your application.
Payroll Manager employer: Imperium Resourcing
Contact Detail:
Imperium Resourcing Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the payroll and finance sectors. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and showcase your expertise. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of HMRC legislation and local government terms. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled complex payroll challenges in the past. Show them you’re the expert they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on organisations that align with your values and career goals. Use our website to find roles that excite you and fit your skills. Tailor your approach to each opportunity!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and how you can contribute to their payroll function.
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Payroll Manager role. Highlight your expertise in HMRC legislation, financial management, and team leadership to show us you’re the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about payroll and how your strategic thinking can benefit our Council. Share examples of your past successes in managing complex payroll functions to grab our attention.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this is a senior role, we want to see how you’ve led teams and influenced stakeholders in the past. Include specific instances where you’ve developed talent or improved processes to demonstrate your leadership style.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with our Council.
How to prepare for a job interview at Imperium Resourcing
✨Know Your Payroll Legislation Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of HMRC legislation, PAYE, tax, NI, and pensions regulations. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're the expert they need for this role.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Prepare examples of how you've contributed to strategic decisions in previous roles. Think about how you've shaped payroll systems or influenced senior stakeholders, as this is a key part of the job.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Be ready to talk about your experience in leading teams and developing talent. Highlight specific instances where you've created a culture of accountability and continuous improvement within your team.
✨Prepare for Complex Scenarios
Anticipate questions about managing audits, compliance frameworks, and financial controls. Have examples ready that demonstrate your ability to handle complex situations and ensure accuracy in payroll processing.