At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead payroll operations and ensure compliance across multiple law firms.
- Company: Join Lawfront, one of the UK's fastest-growing legal groups.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic, multi-entity environment.
- Qualifications: Must have a recognised payroll qualification and experience managing payroll at scale.
- Other info: Collaborative finance team with excellent career growth potential.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 ÂŁ per year.
Lawfront is one of the UK’s fastest‑growing legal groups, bringing together high‑performing regional law firms under a single, forward‑thinking structure. We combine local expertise with the strength of a national platform, enabling our firms to deliver exceptional client service while benefiting from centralised support, investment, and strategic leadership.
As we continue to expand, we are seeking a qualified Group Payroll Manager to lead payroll operations across our multi‑entity group and help shape a best‑in‑class payroll function.
The Opportunity
This is a senior, hands‑on role responsible for delivering accurate, compliant payroll across multiple law firms within the Lawfront Group. You will lead payroll strategy, standardise processes, and support the integration of newly acquired firms. You will work closely with HR, Finance, and senior leadership, ensuring payroll excellence across a complex and growing organisation.
Key Responsibilities
- Payroll Leadership
- Manage and deliver end‑to‑end payroll for multiple group entities
- Ensure timely and accurate monthly payroll processing
- Oversee payroll controls, reconciliations, and audit requirements
- Compliance & Governance
- Ensure full compliance with HMRC regulations, PAYE, NI, pensions, and statutory reporting
- Lead year‑end processes including P11Ds and PSA submissions
- Maintain GDPR‑compliant payroll data and documentation
- Systems & Process Improvement
- Standardise payroll processes across the group
- Support payroll system upgrades, integrations, and automation
- Lead payroll onboarding for newly acquired firms
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Act as the group’s subject‑matter expert for payroll
- Partner with HR and Finance to resolve queries and improve workflows
- Provide clear reporting and insights to senior management
About You
We’re looking for a confident, qualified payroll professional who thrives in a dynamic, multi‑entity environment. You will bring:
- A recognised payroll qualification (essential) (CIPP or equivalent)
- Significant experience managing payroll at scale
- Strong technical knowledge of UK payroll legislation
- Experience in multi‑entity or group environments
- Excellent communication and stakeholder‑management skills
- Experience in professional services or acquisitive organisations (desirable)
What We Offer
- A key role within a growing, ambitious national legal group.
- Opportunities for progression as the group continues to expand.
- A collaborative, supportive finance team.
- Hybrid working and flexibility.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
How to Apply
If you’re looking for a role where you can make a real impact within a growing organisation, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your CV confirming salary expectations to Suzanne.James@lawfront.com
Group Payroll Manager in Essex employer: Lawfront
Contact Detail:
Lawfront Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Payroll Manager in Essex
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal and payroll sectors. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Lawfront and its values. Understand their approach to payroll management and think of ways you can contribute to their goals. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Group Payroll Manager role. We want to see your application directly, so make sure you showcase your qualifications and experience clearly!
We think you need these skills to ace Group Payroll Manager in Essex
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Group Payroll Manager role. Highlight your payroll qualifications and any relevant experience in multi-entity environments to catch our eye!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share your successes! Use specific examples of how you've improved payroll processes or ensured compliance in previous roles. We love seeing how you’ve made an impact!
Keep It Professional Yet Personal: While we appreciate professionalism, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through. A touch of authenticity can make your application stand out and help us get a sense of who you are.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you’re considered for the role without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lawfront
✨Know Your Payroll Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK payroll legislation and compliance requirements. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your expertise in managing payroll across multiple entities.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Group Payroll Manager, you'll be leading payroll operations. Prepare to share how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past, particularly in dynamic environments. Highlight any strategies you've implemented to standardise processes or improve efficiency.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since this role involves working closely with HR and Finance, think about how you can demonstrate your communication and stakeholder management skills. Be ready to discuss how you've resolved queries or improved workflows in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities in real-world scenarios. Think of challenges you've faced in payroll management, how you approached them, and what the outcomes were. This will show your ability to handle the complexities of a multi-entity payroll function.