At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop payroll and pensions services, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- Company: People-centred public sector organisation focused on staff wellbeing.
- Benefits: Opportunity to influence, competitive salary, and professional development.
- Other info: Dynamic role with visibility and influence across the organisation.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in colleagues' lives while shaping payroll systems.
- Qualifications: Significant payroll experience and relevant qualifications required.
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 pivotal role will suit someone who enjoys complexity, values accuracy, and wants their work to make a real difference to the lives of colleagues. 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.
- Anticipate and implement changes in legislation, ensuring the organisation remains compliant and well‑informed.
To be considered you will require:
- 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. CIPP), or be working towards this.
- Strong knowledge of payroll legislation, PAYE, HMRC and pension schemes.
- Experience of using and developing usage of payroll systems (EduPay desirable).
- The ability to manage deadlines, detail and competing priorities and explain complex information clearly and tactfully.
- Knowledge and experience of public sector pensions schemes such as TPS and/or LGPS.
Locations
Payroll Manager in Essex, Witham employer: Morgan Law client
Join a people-centred public sector organisation that prioritises staff wellbeing and development, offering a unique opportunity for a Payroll Manager to lead a strategic and influential payroll and pensions function. With a commitment to creating a supportive work culture, this role not only allows you to shape systems and processes but also provides genuine visibility and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of colleagues. Enjoy professional growth opportunities while working closely with senior leaders in a dynamic environment that values accuracy and complexity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll Manager 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. Remember, it's all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation thoroughly. Understand their values, mission, and any recent news. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference in their payroll function.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Payroll Manager. Highlight your strategic thinking and people-focused approach, as these are key to influencing senior leaders and shaping systems.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application and stand out from the crowd. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and contributing to our mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Manager in Essex, Witham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. It’s packed with info about what we’re looking for in a Payroll Manager, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and qualifications.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Don’t just send us a generic CV! Highlight your relevant experience in payroll and pensions, especially if you've worked in complex organisations. Show us how your skills align with what we need – it’ll make a big difference!
Showcase Your People Skills:This role is all about people, so let us know how you’ve successfully managed teams or influenced senior leaders in the past. We want to see your ability to communicate clearly and build relationships.
Apply Through Our Website:When you’re ready to hit that 'apply' button, make sure you do it through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Morgan Law client
✨Know Your Payroll Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your payroll and pensions knowledge before the interview. Familiarise yourself with current legislation, PAYE, and pension schemes relevant to the public sector. Being able to confidently discuss these topics will show that you're not just experienced but also up-to-date.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves managing a team, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully led and developed staff in the past. Think about specific situations where you created a supportive environment or improved team performance, as this will demonstrate your capability to lead effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle complex payroll situations or changes in legislation. Practise articulating your thought process and decision-making skills in these scenarios. This will help you convey your strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
✨Connect with the Organisation's Values
Research the organisation's commitment to staff wellbeing and development. Be ready to discuss how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission. Showing that you understand and resonate with their people-centred approach will set you apart from other candidates.
