At a Glance
- Tasks: Support HR and payroll services for a leading Multi Academy Trust.
- Company: Join a high-performing educational Trust in Surrey with 11 schools.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, up to 30 days annual leave, and professional development sponsorship.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while growing your HR career.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR or payroll; CIPD Level 3 training required upon appointment.
The predicted salary is between 31000 - 34500 £ per year.
We are currently partnering with a leading Multi Academy Trust based in Surrey, who are recruiting for a HR & Payroll Officer to join their central team on a permanent basis. Our client is a high-performing and growing educational Trust, supporting 11 schools and over 700 employees across primary and secondary education. This is an exciting opportunity for an HR professional to support the delivery of high-quality HR and payroll service across the Trust.
This is a full-time, all-year-round position with a salary of £31,000 to £34,500 (subject to experience), with a 3.3% salary increase applying from September 2026. The start date is as soon as possible.
Duties will include (but are not limited to):
- Coordinating the full recruitment lifecycle, from vacancy administration through onboarding and pre-employment screening
- Administering employment contracts, contractual amendments and accurate maintenance of employee documentation
- Liaising with external payroll and pension providers, including EPM, to resolve queries and ensure effective service delivery
- Preparing, checking and reconciling monthly payroll data to maintain accuracy and compliance
- Supporting employee relations activity across absence, disciplinary, grievance and capability matters
- Maintaining HR systems, workforce records and compliance documentation, while producing accurate reports to inform Trust-wide decision-making
Experience required:
- CIPD Level 3 qualification – non-essential but must begin CIPD training upon appointment (the cost of which will be covered for you)
- Experience working within an HR, payroll or people administration role
- Experience supporting recruitment, onboarding and employee record management
Skills, knowledge and expertise required:
- Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
- Confidence using Microsoft Office and HR/payroll systems
- Ability to prioritise a busy workload and meet deadlines
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills
Rewards and Benefits:
- Teachers’ pensions/local gov
- Up to 30 days AL
- Professional development sponsorship opportunities
Working hours:
- Full time, 36 hours per week. 9:00-5:00 with some flexibility
- Permanent
Please note that you require recent experience to apply for this role.
HR & Payroll Officer in Guildford employer: James Andrews Recruitment Solutions Ltd
James Andrews Recruitment Solutions Ltd is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture in the heart of London. With a focus on employee development, the company provides extensive training and fast-track progression opportunities, making it an ideal place for graduates looking to build a rewarding career in recruitment. The uncapped commission structure further enhances earning potential, ensuring that hard work is recognised and rewarded.
Contact Details:
James Andrews Recruitment Solutions Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HR & Payroll Officer in Guildford
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We think you need these skills to ace HR & Payroll Officer in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
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