Payroll and Pensions Director

Payroll and Pensions Director

London (Hybrid) | Fixed Term (2 Years) | £68,098 – £72,757

This range is provided by Insite Finance. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

We are partnering with a prestigious London-based educational institution to recruit an experienced Payroll and Pensions Director. Take ownership of a £50m payroll operation serving circa 2,400 employees and lead a team of three specialists.

The Role

As a Payroll and Pensions Director, you\’ll be the expert for all payroll and pensions matters, ensuring flawless monthly processing, full compliance, and accurate reporting to HMRC, pension providers, and auditors.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end monthly payroll delivery ensuring accuracy and compliance
• Manage c£19m annual payments to HMRC, pension schemes, and statutory bodies
• Administer four pension schemes (USS, SAUL, NHSPS, NEST) with full regulatory compliance
• Calculate complex pension scenarios including Lifetime/Annual Allowance and auto-enrolment
• Advise Finance and HR Directors on cost implications of retirements and redundancies
• Maintain and configure HR/Payroll system (iTrent) and expenses system (Agresso)
• Lead year‑end processes (P60s, P11Ds, PSA) and authorise severance payments
• Stay ahead of legislative changes and implement system updates accordingly
• Manage, motivate and develop your team to meet critical deadlines

What We’re Looking For

• Proven payroll management experience in a medium/large organisation
• Operational experience of Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution pension schemes
• Staff management experience with ability to lead and develop teams
• Hands‑on experience with USS, SAUL, and NHS Superannuation Scheme
• Expert knowledge of HR/Payroll systems (preferably iTrent) and Finance system integration
• Deep understanding of payroll, taxation, and auto‑enrolment legislation
• Specialised knowledge of occupational pension scheme regulations
• Advanced Excel skills and MS Office proficiency
• Exceptional communication skills and meticulous attention to detail
• Degree level education or equivalent
• Higher Education and/or NHS experience

Why Apply?

• Substantial responsibility – Own a £50m payroll operation impacting thousands of staff
• Generous pension – Choice of competitive schemes (SAUL, LPFA, USS, NHSPS) with excellent employer contributions
• Outstanding leave – 30 days + 8 public holidays + 4 closure days (Christmas/New Year)
• Flexible hybrid working – Modern campus with excellent transport links
• Professional development – Continuous learning in a respected education environment
• Comprehensive benefits – Season ticket loan, Cycle to Work, on‑site leisure facilities

The Organisation

Our client is a well‑established London education and training institution with a strong reputation for excellence. Following a recent merger, they\’re now one of the largest education providers in the capital, attracting students from 150+ countries.

Seniority Level

Director

Employment Type

Full‑time (fixed term)

Job Function

Finance

Industries

Higher Education