HR & Payroll Assistant Manager

This is a newly shaped role designed to support the organisation’s next phase of growth, including international expansion and further investment in people infrastructure. The successful candidate will work closely with senior leadership, including the HR Director and Finance function, gaining exposure across a global workforce. This role offers a clear and structured pathway toward progression into an HR Manager or Payroll Manager position.

Role Overview: This position combines HR generalist responsibilities with full ownership of the UK payroll cycle, supporting the entire employee lifecycle and reward framework. While primarily focused on the London office (circa 170 employees), the role also provides exposure to global HR activities across multiple jurisdictions.

Key Responsibilities

• HR Administration & Employee Lifecycle: Act as a first point of contact for HR queries, escalating complex issues as needed. Manage HR inboxes and ensure timely responses. Administer the full employee lifecycle (onboarding, promotions, leavers, etc.). Coordinate onboarding processes, including contracts, checks and inductions. Maintain accurate HR records in line with data protection regulations. Support employee relations processes including investigations and documentation.
• Payroll & Benefits: Own the end-to-end monthly UK payroll process. Manage statutory requirements including PAYE, pensions and RTI submissions. Administer employee benefits programmes and liaise with providers. Support annual salary and bonus processes, including reporting obligations. Partner closely with Finance on reconciliations, accruals and audits.
• Global HR Support: Provide HR support to international offices in collaboration with local advisers. Assist with global payroll coordination and international employee matters. Contribute to cross-border HR projects and system implementations.
• Training, Compliance & Policy: Manage compliance training systems and reporting. Maintain and update HR policies in line with UK legislation. Support internal and external audits.
• Recruitment & Early Careers: Support recruitment of junior and mid-level roles. Coordinate early careers initiatives, including graduate engagement and events. Act as a brand ambassador at university and recruitment events.

Candidate Profile

• Essential: CIPD Level 5 (completed or in progress). CIPP Payroll Technician (or working towards advanced qualification). 2-3 years’ experience in a combined HR & payroll role. Strong knowledge of UK payroll processes (PAYE, NICs, pensions, RTI, P11Ds). Experience with ADP payroll systems. Exposure to employee relations matters. Strong Excel and HR systems experience.
• Desirable: Experience in international payroll or multi-jurisdictional environments. Background in professional services or partnership-led organisations. Degree or relevant further education.

Skills & Attributes

• High attention to detail with a strong control and audit mindset.
• Ability to handle confidential, senior-level data with discretion.
• Confident communicator, able to influence stakeholders.
• Commercially aware with curiosity to learn and develop.
• Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, non-bureaucratic environment.

Culture & Environment: The organisation operates within a partner-led, entrepreneurial culture where autonomy and efficiency are highly valued. Success in this role will require the ability to build credibility quickly, provide pragmatic HR support, and influence stakeholders without unnecessary process.

Development & Progression: Progression to CIPD Level 7 and Chartered status. Advanced payroll qualifications. Exposure to international HR frameworks. Mentoring from senior HR and Finance leaders. Participation in global HR projects.

What’s on Offer: Salary of £55,000. Discretionary bonus. Pension, life assurance and health-related benefits. Employee assistance programme. Gym membership support. 25 days’ annual leave.