At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead payroll, pensions, and reward services while driving continuous improvement and compliance.
- Company: Join Priory, the UK's leading provider of mental health and adult social care.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 25 days annual leave, private medical insurance, and more.
- Other info: Hybrid role with flexible working and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a supportive environment with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: Experienced payroll leader with expert knowledge of UK payroll legislation and team management skills.
The predicted salary is between 72400 - 72400 £ per year.
Salary up to £72,400 DOE
We are seeking a strategic and experienced Head of Payroll, Pensions & Reward to lead the delivery of payroll, pensions and reward across Priory.
This pivotal role will ensure accurate, compliant and efficient payroll and pension services while shaping a reward strategy that attracts, motivates and retains talented colleagues.
Leading a high-performing team, you will drive continuous improvement, strengthen governance and compliance, and work closely with senior stakeholders to enhance systems, processes and colleague experience across a complex, multi-site organisation.
This is a hybrid role, with three days per week based at our Leicester office and the flexibility to work remotely for the remainder of the week.
Occasional travel nationally may be required to visit sites in the UK.
What you’ll be doing
You will lead the delivery and governance of Priory’s payroll and pensions operations, ensuring accurate, compliant and efficient services across the Group.
As the subject matter expert for payroll legislation, HMRC requirements and payroll systems, you will drive continuous improvement, strengthen controls and oversee key transformation initiatives.
Working closely with stakeholders across HR, Finance and Operations, you will provide expert advice on payroll, pensions and reward, ensuring compliance, managing risk and supporting organisational objectives.
You will also lead and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of accountability, service excellence and continuous improvement.
What you’ll bring to the role
You will be an experienced payroll leader with a track record of delivering high-quality payroll services within a large, complex organisation.
Professionally qualified (CIPP Diploma or equivalent), you will bring expert knowledge of UK payroll legislation, HMRC requirements, statutory payments, pensions and employee benefits.
With strong analytical and problem-solving skills, you will be confident interpreting legislative changes and translating them into practical business solutions.
You will have experience leading teams, managing payroll systems and driving operational improvements, with the ability to build credibility and influence stakeholders at all levels.
Experience of payroll transformation, external audits and regulated environments would be advantageous, as would knowledge of MHR i Trent, SOX controls and wider HR systems integration.
What we will give you in return
We want you to succeed at Priory and thrive in your role.
You will be well supported with regular career conversations.
We also offer full training and numerous pathways into leadership and qualified clinical positions to help you shape your career with us.
- 25 days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays + additional day’s leave for your Birthday!
- Annual leave entitlement increases based on length of service: 27 days after 5 years’ service and 30 days after 10 years’ service
- Life Assurance
- Private Medical Insurance
- Length of service recognition awards – every 5 years
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Initial Disclosure Check Cost covered, if applicable to role
- ‘My Possible Self’ App and health-related benefits
- Online discounts and cashback rewards – Priory Perks
- Smart Technology scheme (qualifying period)
- Cycle to work scheme (qualifying period)
- Smart Holidays (qualifying period)
- Gym Flex (qualifying period)
- Healthcare Cash Plan – Simply Health Scheme
- Eye Care Vouchers
- ‘Cash for Colleagues’ – Employee referral scheme
- Access to development opportunities
- Sponsorship of professional qualifications through our Individual Professional Development (IPD) panel
- Parental Leave Gift
Please take the time to familiarise yourself with the full job description attached prior to making an application.
About Priory
Priory is the UK’s leading independent provider of mental health and adult social care.
With 12,000 colleagues and a network of 270 services, we support over 24,000 people each year to live their lives as fully and independently as possible.
We treat more than 70 conditions – including depression, anxiety, eating disorders and children’s mental health – and provide residential and supported living care for autistic adults, people with a learning disability, Prader’s-Willi Syndrome, brain injuries and older people.
We are an equal opportunities employer committed to providing an inclusive, accessible recruitment process. Learn more about the accessibility support we offer here.
All roles are subject to a successful disclosure at an appropriate level from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), Access NI or Disclosure Scotland.
Priory will cover the cost of a DBS check.
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Head of Payroll, Pensions and Reward in Leicester employer: Priory
At Priory Hospital Kneesworth House, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work environment where your contributions to patient recovery are valued. With a focus on professional development, we provide numerous pathways for career advancement, alongside competitive benefits such as enhanced maternity pay and flexible working options. Located in the picturesque Hertfordshire, our purpose-built facility ensures you have access to a fulfilling career in a tranquil setting, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful employment in the field of Psychiatry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Payroll, Pensions and Reward in Leicester
✨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!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Priory!
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Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Priory.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Payroll, Pensions and Reward in Leicester
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 Priory. 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 Priory 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 Priory. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Priory'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 Priory
✨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 Priory.
✨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 Priory 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 Priory and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
