Payroll Administrator in Manchester

Location: Old Trafford

At Manchester United, we believe that excellence on the pitch starts with excellence off the pitch. Our team thrives in a high-performance environment, united by a shared passion for success. We aim to elevate the standard of performance through collaboration and continuous growth, creating a space where everyone can contribute their best to our common goals. We work together at our iconic Manchester United offices, enabling connection and innovation as we look ahead to what we can achieve as a global football club. We are excited to bring in passionate people who share our vision and drive for success.

The Role

We’re looking for a detail‑driven Payroll Administrator to play a key role in ensuring everyone – from office staff to matchday teams, are paid accurately and on‑time. You will be at the heart of the Finance function, and is a fast‑paced environment, where accuracy, discretion and organisation is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Payroll Processing
  • Process payroll accurately and on time for all employees
  • Calculate new starters, leavers, and adhoc payroll amendments
  • Perform manual calculations where required
  • Manage all tax codes and statutory payments/deductions made in line with HMRC regulations
  • Review and validate variable payroll information
  • Conduct payroll reconciliations and resolve discrepancies, whilst rectifying these issues promptly
  • Support with payroll-related projects and system improvements
  • Monitor and manage the shared payroll inboxes, escalating any issues that require further investigations
  • Maintain and optimise payroll system functionality
  • Ensure payroll audit controls are followed in accordance with both internal and external audit processes
  • Keep processes up to date with compliance to legislation
  • Ownership of end‑end processing of certain payrolls including matchday payroll for stewards, hospitality and casual workers
• Communication & Customer Service
  • Build effective working relationships across Payroll, HR, and wider finance teams
  • Always deliver a high standard of customer service whilst resolving potential issues or complaints efficiently
• Team Contribution
  • Collaborate with the Payroll team to achieve departmental objectives
  • Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives
  • Assist with training of team members and/or supporting the development of new team processes
• Compliance & Governance
  • Maintain strict confidentiality and comply with data protection regulations
  • Ensure compliance with company policies
  • Maintain accurate records to support financial and budget processes
• Self-Development
  • Opportunity to participate in internal training opportunities
  • Take ownership of personal development and continuous learning using both the tools and programs available at the club and external wider reading
• Additional Responsibilities
  • Maintain a safe, organised, and professional working environment
  • Undertake any additional duties as reasonably required by the Payroll Supervisor, Head of Payroll or senior management

The Person

Key Skills & Experience

• Demonstrated experience in managing end-to-end payroll processes
• Proactive payroll professional with the ability to show initiative with both new and ongoing projects
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills (including Pivot Tables and VLOOKUP/INDEX MATCH)
• Able to effectively manage workload in a fast‑paced environment, and multitask/prioritise effectively
• Key investigative skills, confident in engaging with all stakeholders
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Payroll accounting experience (desirable)

Our Values

• Badge – Earn the badge, every day. Respect our history and heritage. Be best in class and deliver to the standards expected of Manchester United. No one is bigger than the club.
• Bravery – Be bold, be brave, and take calculated risks. Do things differently and innovate. Lead by example and do what’s right for the club, even when it’s hard.
• Spirit – Embody the spirit of Manchester United. Show strength of character, act with passion, and fight back, no matter what.

What We Offer

• Annual Incentive Scheme to reward your dedication and hard work
• 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays) and an opportunity to purchase additional holiday days
• Electric Vehicle scheme via Octopus and cycle to work scheme
• Wellness Support with access to mental health resources, digital health checks, and nutritionists through Aviva Digicare+
• Workplace Exclusive Discounts through our United Rewards platform, giving you access to exclusive deals from the club and partners
• Gym facilities in our onsite locations and opportunities for regular social events and team-building activities
• Enhanced family leave benefits and policies
• Enhanced career development with access to professional learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, and internal training programs
• A supportive work environment that values diversity, equity and inclusion, and individual growth

Our Commitment To You

We believe that a diverse and inclusive environment makes us stronger. We are committed to building a team where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives. Diversity, equity, and inclusion sit at the core of our recruitment strategy, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Manchester United is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, and as part of this commitment, all candidates will undergo a Disclosure and Barring Service check and reference checks. It is unlawful to employ a person in a UK-based job who does not have permission to live and work in the UK. You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to you before applying for any of our roles.