Payroll Project Specialist in Manchester

Payroll Project Specialist in Manchester

Manchester Full-Time 43500 £ / year No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead payroll system migrations and ensure smooth transitions to new processes.
  • Company: Join Network Plus, a leading provider of essential utility services in the UK.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, full benefits package, and professional development opportunities.
  • Other info: Inclusive workplace that values diversity and offers excellent career growth.
  • Why this job: Shape payroll processes and work on exciting transformation projects with diverse teams.
  • Qualifications: Experience with ADP, Civica, Sage, and strong data migration skills required.

We are seeking an experienced Payroll Project Specialist to support the delivery of payroll transformation initiatives across the organisation. This role is ideal for someone with hands-on experience in ADP, Civica, Sage, and proven capability in data migration, system implementation and process improvement. You will play a key part in modernising our payroll operations, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and seamless transition into new systems and ways of working.

What we offer:

  • Opportunity to shape and improve payroll processes across the organisation
  • Exposure to major payroll systems and transformation projects
  • Collaborative working environment with HR, Finance and IT teams
  • Professional development and training opportunities

Key Responsibilities:

  • Payroll system migration, lead and support end to end migration activities across ADP, Civica, Sage including data extraction, cleansing, mapping, validation and reconciliation
  • Data analysis & preparation – review, audit, and prepare payroll datasets for migration ensuring accuracy and completeness
  • Process documentation, create clear “as-is” and “to-be” process maps, workflows, and procedural documentation
  • Testing & UAT, coordinate and execute payroll testing, cycles, parallel runs, defect resolution, and statutory calculation checks
  • Stakeholder engagement, working closely with HR, Finance, IT, and external vendors to ensure project alignment and smooth delivery
  • System configuration, support system configuration of payroll rules, pay elements, GL mapping, and integrations with HRIS/ERP systems
  • Compliance & Controls, ensure payroll processes meet HMRC legislation, RTI requirements, pensions regulations, internal governance standards
  • Change management, assist with training, communication, and handover to BAU payroll teams

Experience and Qualifications:

  • Strong technical knowledge of UK payroll legislation and payroll best practice
  • Hands-on experience with ADP, Civica & Sage payroll systems
  • Proven experience in data migration, including cleansing, mapping and validation
  • Confident working with large datasets and Excel
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate technical details into clear guidance
  • Experience supporting system implementations or payroll transformation projects
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail

Salary and Benefits:

We offer a competitive salary based on experience along with a full benefits package.

Network Plus is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and do not discriminate based on race, religion, colour, nationality, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability status, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law. We are Armed Forces-friendly. We welcome applications from ex-Armed Forces personnel, reservists, armed forces veterans, cadet instructors and military spouses/partners.

We understand that privacy and the security of your personal information is extremely important. By applying for this role, you agree to the terms of our privacy policy.

About Network Plus:

Network Plus is an award-winning business delivering essential utility and infrastructure services for the UK’s major providers of gas, power, telecoms, transport, water, and wastewater. We value the variety of experience, perspective, and other points of difference our workforce, clients, and supply chain offer. We are actively working with colleagues across the Network Plus Group to develop an inclusive environment – we want all our employees to feel valued and included to enable everyone to thrive at work and understand the value of their contribution matters no matter their background, identity, or circumstances.

Payroll Project Specialist in Manchester employer: Network Plus

As a Utilities Coordinator at our company, you will thrive in a dynamic work environment that prioritises collaboration and innovation. We offer competitive benefits, a strong focus on employee development, and opportunities for career advancement, all while being part of a team dedicated to delivering exceptional service in the utilities sector. Located in a vibrant area, our workplace fosters a culture of inclusivity and support, making it an excellent choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.

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Contact Details:

Network Plus Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Payroll Project Specialist in Manchester

Join HR Networks

Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!

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We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Project Specialist in Manchester

ADP
Civica
Sage
Data Migration
System Implementation
Process Improvement
Data Analysis

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Network Plus. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.

Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Network Plus and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.

Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Network Plus. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.

Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Network Plus's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.

How to prepare for a job interview at Network Plus

Brush Up on HR Best Practices

As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Network Plus.

Know Your Recruitment Tools

Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!

Highlight Your People Skills

A full-time HR role at Network Plus will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.

Stay Current with HR Trends

Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Network Plus and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.