At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop payroll services, ensuring accuracy and compliance while advising senior leaders.
- Company: People-centred public sector organisation focused on staff wellbeing and development.
- Benefits: Opportunity for influence, strategic role, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Collaborate with HR and Finance to enhance processes and reporting.
- Why this job: Shape payroll systems and make a real impact in a dynamic public sector setting.
- Qualifications: Significant payroll experience, relevant qualifications, and knowledge of public sector pensions.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Are you an experienced Payroll professional seeking challenge, influence and purpose? Our client, a people‑centred public sector organisation committed to staff wellbeing and development, now has a fantastic opportunity for an exceptional Payroll Manager to lead their payroll and pensions function. This isn't a routine payroll role. It's strategic, people‑focused, and influential - with the opportunity to shape systems, advise senior leaders, and lead a dedicated payroll team. Reporting to the Director of People and working closely with the CEO, CFO and other leaders, this role will provide genuine visibility and influence.
As Payroll Manager, you will:
- Lead and develop the organisation's in-house payroll and pensions service, ensuring it is accurate, compliant and timely.
- Act as an expert on payroll, pensions and contractual matters, providing clear, confident advice to colleagues and senior leaders.
- Oversee monthly in-house payroll for a large, complex workforce, including pensions, statutory returns and year‑end activity.
- Line manage and develop payroll staff, creating a supportive and high‑performing team.
- Work closely with HR and Finance colleagues to improve systems, reporting and processes.
Significant experience in payroll and pensions, ideally gained in a large or complex organisation, preferably within the education sector or wider public sector.
A recognised relevant payroll or pensions qualification (e.g. Strong knowledge of payroll legislation, PAYE, HMRC and pension schemes).
Experience of using and developing usage of payroll systems (EduPay desirable).
Knowledge and experience of public sector pensions schemes such as TPS and/or LGPS.
Locations
Data management officer in Essex, Witham employer: Morgan Law client
Our client is an exceptional employer that prioritises staff wellbeing and development, offering a dynamic work culture where employees can thrive. As a Payroll Manager in this public sector organisation, you will enjoy meaningful work with the opportunity to influence strategic decisions, while benefiting from a supportive environment that fosters professional growth and collaboration with senior leaders. Located in a community-focused setting, this role not only provides job satisfaction but also the chance to make a real impact on the lives of others.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Data management officer in Essex, Witham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the payroll and pensions field. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet potential employers and showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of payroll legislation and public sector pension schemes. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled challenges in previous roles and how you can bring that experience to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on organisations that align with your values. Check out our website for opportunities that resonate with your career goals and apply directly through us for a better chance!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can set you apart from other candidates. Mention something specific from your conversation to remind them why you’re the perfect fit for their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Data management officer in Essex, Witham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Payroll Manager. Highlight your experience in payroll and pensions, especially if you've worked in a large or complex organisation. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Expertise:In your cover letter, don’t just list your qualifications; explain how they make you the perfect fit for this strategic role. Share specific examples of how you've provided clear advice on payroll and pensions matters to senior leaders.
Be Personable:Remember, this role is people-focused! Use your application to show us your interpersonal skills. We love candidates who can lead and develop teams, so share any experiences that demonstrate your ability to create a supportive environment.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Morgan Law client
✨Know Your Payroll Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of payroll legislation, PAYE, and pension schemes. Be ready to discuss how you've applied this knowledge in previous roles, especially in complex organisations. This will show that you're not just familiar with the basics but can also handle the intricacies of payroll management.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading a payroll team, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully managed and developed staff in the past. Highlight any strategies you've used to create a supportive environment and improve team performance. This will demonstrate your capability to lead effectively.
✨Prepare for System Discussions
Familiarise yourself with payroll systems, particularly EduPay if you can. Be ready to discuss how you've used or improved payroll systems in your previous roles. This shows that you can not only manage payroll but also enhance processes for better efficiency.
✨Connect with the Bigger Picture
Understand how payroll fits into the wider organisational goals, especially in a public sector context. Be prepared to discuss how you can influence senior leaders and contribute to strategic decisions. This will show that you’re not just focused on the numbers but also on the people and the organisation's mission.
