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 to influence change, competitive salary, and a supportive work environment.
- 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 and processes.
- Qualifications: Significant payroll experience, relevant qualifications, and strong knowledge of legislation.
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.
Payroll Manager employer: Morgan Law
As a Payroll Manager in this people-centred public sector organisation, you will thrive in a supportive work culture that prioritises staff wellbeing and professional development. With opportunities to influence strategic decisions and lead a dedicated team, you will find your role both challenging and rewarding, making a tangible difference in the lives of your colleagues. The organisation's commitment to compliance and continuous improvement ensures that you will be at the forefront of payroll innovation, all while enjoying the benefits of working within a dynamic and impactful environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the payroll and pensions field. 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
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your achievements in payroll management, compliance, and team leadership. This will help you stand out during interviews and demonstrate your value to potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your answers and boost your confidence. Focus on articulating how your experience aligns with the strategic and people-focused aspects of the Payroll Manager role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that match your skills. Plus, applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other candidates. Don’t miss out on your dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Payroll Manager role. Highlight your experience in payroll and pensions, especially in complex organisations. We want to see how your skills align with the job description!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this role and how you can make a difference. Don’t forget to mention your strategic mindset and people-focused approach.
Showcase Relevant Qualifications:If you have any payroll or pensions qualifications, like CIPP, make sure they’re front and centre. We love seeing candidates who are committed to their professional development and understand the complexities of payroll legislation.
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
✨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 Strategic Discussions
This isn't just about processing payroll; it's about influencing and advising senior leaders. Be ready to discuss how you've shaped systems or processes in previous roles. Think strategically about how you can contribute to the organisation's goals and be prepared to share your ideas.
✨Practice Clear Communication
You'll need to explain complex information clearly and tactfully, so practice articulating your thoughts on payroll matters. Consider doing mock interviews with a friend or colleague, focusing on how you can simplify complex topics for different audiences. This will help you feel more confident during the actual interview.
