Payroll Administrator in Southampton

Newsquest Media Group are looking for a Payroll Administrator to join our established payroll team based in Southampton. This is a fantastic opportunity for someone with payroll experience who enjoys working in a fast-paced environment where accuracy, organisation and attention to detail are essential. Working closely with the Group Payroll Manager and wider payroll team, you’ll play a key role in ensuring employees across Newsquest Media Group are paid accurately and on time. You’ll be involved in all aspects of the payroll process, from reconciliations and statutory payments through to pension administration, HMRC submissions and payroll reporting. This role offers a mix of payroll processing, compliance and stakeholder interaction, making it ideal for someone who enjoys both the technical and customer service aspects of payroll.

Key Responsibilities

• Process monthly and lunar payrolls accurately and within agreed deadlines.
• Deliver a high-quality payroll service to employees and managers across the business.
• Complete payroll reconciliations and manage third-party payments.
• Ensure payroll data is accurate and maintained within payroll systems.
• Process BACS payments as part of each payroll cycle.
• Submit payroll information to HMRC, ensuring all data is accurate and compliant.
• Administer statutory payments including SSP, SMP and other payroll-related deductions.
• Support Pension Auto Enrolment processes, employee communications and ongoing pension administration.
• Maintain employee payroll records and audit trails.
• Produce and distribute payroll documentation, including payslips and P45s.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure payroll deadlines and year-end schedules are achieved.
• Identify and elevate payroll issues, risks or discrepancies where appropriate.
• Review payroll calculations and perform manual checks to support payroll accuracy.
• Maintain strict confidentiality when handling employee information.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of payroll processes and controls.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Previous payroll administration experience.
• Good understanding of PAYE and National Insurance regulations, including Scottish PAYE.
• Knowledge of National Minimum Wage regulations and payroll deductions.
• Understanding of statutory payments such as SSP and SMP.
• Awareness of Auto Enrolment pension legislation and pension administration processes.
• Knowledge of attachment of earnings, court orders and other employee deductions.
• Understanding of Benefits in Kind would be advantageous.
• Strong attention to detail and a high level of numerical accuracy.
• Excellent organisational and time management skills.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to build effective working relationships.
• Confident using Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook.
• Experience using Microsoft Copilot or similar AI tools to support productivity and process improvement would be advantageous, but is not essential.
• Ability to handle confidential information professionally and discreetly.

Benefits

• 25 days holiday + bank holidays + your birthday off
• Holiday buy scheme for extra flexibility
• Structured career progression & ongoing training
• Pension plan
• Employee Helpline counselling and advice
• Perks & discounts including: Gym membership, Cycle to Work scheme, Eye care, Retail discounts
• Team building days & annual volunteer charity day