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- Tasks: Manage payroll and benefits, ensuring accuracy and compliance while supporting employees.
- Company: Join a leading global Financial Services firm with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that values employee experience and innovation.
- Qualifications: 2-5 years in HR Operations or Payroll, with strong Excel and communication skills.
- Other info: Work in a supportive environment with excellent career advancement potential.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are currently representing a leading global Financial Services firm in the appointment of high-calibre professionals as part of a period of strategic growth and investment. Our client operates at the intersection of corporate, fiduciary and regulatory services, partnering with private equity houses, investment managers and international financial institutions. Backed by long-term institutional investment and an established global brand, the firm is scaling its capabilities, technology and international footprint.
This is an opportunity to join a business that combines the agility of a growth platform with the credibility, client base and governance of a market leader.
The HR Operations Specialist (Payroll & Benefits) will support the delivery of accurate, compliant, and employee-focused HR operations within a growing Financial Services organisation. The role is responsible for day-to-day payroll and benefits administration, maintaining high standards of data integrity across HR systems, and acting as the first point of contact for employee pay and benefits queries. The role supports the full employee lifecycle from onboarding to offboarding and works closely with Finance, HR colleagues, and external providers to ensure strong governance and a high-quality employee experience.
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver end-to-end payroll processing, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with local legislation.
- Administer employee benefits including pensions, health insurance, life assurance, and related programmes.
- Maintain accurate employee data within HR systems, supporting audit readiness and regulatory requirements.
- Act as the primary contact for payroll and benefits queries from employees and managers.
- Produce payroll and benefits reporting, reconciliations, and support year-end and statutory processes.
- Identify opportunities to improve payroll and benefits processes, including automation and system enhancements.
- Support payroll and benefits activities for new starters, role changes, and leavers.
What is Necessary for Success
- 2–5 years’ experience in HR Operations, Payroll, or Benefits administration, ideally within Financial Services or a regulated environment.
- Strong understanding of payroll processes, statutory deductions, and compliance requirements.
- Experience using HRIS platforms (e.g. SAP SuccessFactors, Workday, HiBob) and working with payroll providers.
- Strong Excel skills and confidence handling payroll and benefits data.
- Detail-oriented, reliable, and comfortable working to deadlines.
- Clear communicator with a service-focused mindset.
- CIPD or payroll-related qualification is desirable.
HR Operations Specialist (Payroll & Benefits) employer: Instant Impact
Contact Detail:
Instant Impact Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HR Operations Specialist (Payroll & Benefits)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the HR and Financial Services sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company and its culture, especially their approach to payroll and benefits. We recommend practising common interview questions and even role-playing with a friend. The more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring examples of your past work in payroll and benefits administration to the table. Whether it’s a project you led or a process you improved, we want to see how you can add value to the team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After an interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to keep your name fresh in their minds. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance at landing that HR Operations Specialist role!
We think you need these skills to ace HR Operations Specialist (Payroll & Benefits)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the HR Operations Specialist role. Highlight your experience in payroll and benefits administration, especially if you've worked in Financial Services before. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this role and how your background makes you a great fit. Don’t forget to mention any specific experiences that relate to payroll processes and compliance.
Show Off Your Skills: We love seeing strong Excel skills and experience with HRIS platforms. Make sure to include any relevant software or tools you've used in your previous roles. This will help us understand how you can hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website: To make sure your application gets to us quickly and easily, apply through our website. It’s the best way to ensure we see your application and can get back to you as soon as possible!
How to prepare for a job interview at Instant Impact
✨Know Your Payroll Basics
Make sure you brush up on payroll processes and statutory deductions before the interview. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you understand the core responsibilities of the HR Operations Specialist role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with HRIS Platforms
Since experience with HRIS platforms like SAP SuccessFactors or Workday is crucial, take some time to learn about their functionalities. If you’ve used similar systems, be ready to share specific examples of how you’ve leveraged technology in your previous roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific payroll or benefits scenarios. Think of examples from your past experience where you successfully resolved issues or improved processes, as this will demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a primary contact for payroll and benefits queries, clear communication is key. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, and be prepared to discuss how you’ve effectively communicated with employees and managers in the past.
