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- Tasks: Lead payroll and pensions services for 6,000 employees and 28,000 members.
- Company: Dynamic organisation in Lewisham, London with a focus on service improvement.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £79,629, hybrid working, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by leading a high-performing team in payroll and pensions.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in payroll and pensions management, preferably in local government.
- Other info: Join a supportive environment with opportunities to represent the organisation externally.
The predicted salary is between 75000 - 85000 £ per year.
Check out the role overview below. If you are confident you have got the right skills and experience, apply today.
Location: Lewisham, London
Salary: £79,629 per annum
Contract Type: Permanent, Full-Time, Hybrid (2 days in the office)
About the Role
One of our clients is seeking an experienced Head of Payroll and Pensions to lead their payroll and pension services. This senior role oversees payroll for 6,000 employees and manages the pensions for over 28,000 members. The successful candidate will lead a high-performing team, ensure compliance with legislation, and drive service improvements across the borough.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop the payroll and pensions teams, ensuring efficiency and excellent service.
- Manage payroll (Oracle Cloud) and pensions (Altair) systems, including legacy and archived data.
- Provide expert advice on payroll and pension legislation, including LGPS regulations and Pensions Acts.
- Oversee external contracts, including LGPS actuaries, and manage schools’ payroll SLA services.
- Ensure compliance with statutory deadlines, internal controls, and audit requirements.
- Represent our client on pension boards, committees, and external forums.
What We’re Looking For
- Extensive senior-level experience in payroll and pensions management, preferably in local government.
- Strong knowledge of LGPS regulations and payroll legislation.
- Proven leadership and team development skills.
- Excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
- Relevant degree or professional payroll/pensions qualification or equivalent experience.
Apply now and shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Closing Date: 09/01/2026
Head of Payroll and Pensions employer: Public Sector Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Public Sector Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Payroll and Pensions
✨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.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its payroll systems. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially around compliance and service improvements.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Think of examples where you've successfully led teams or improved processes. This will help you stand out as a candidate who can drive performance.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Payroll and Pensions
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Payroll and Pensions role. Highlight your experience in payroll and pensions management, especially if you've worked in local government. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves leading a team, don’t forget to showcase your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've developed teams and driven service improvements. We love seeing candidates who can inspire others!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and concise. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate straightforward communication, especially when it comes to your qualifications and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s super easy and ensures your application goes directly to us. Don’t miss out on this opportunity – we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Public Sector Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of payroll and pensions legislation, especially LGPS regulations. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just familiar with the basics but are also an expert in the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you motivated your team to overcome them. This will demonstrate your capability to lead a high-performing team effectively.
✨Understand the Systems
Familiarise yourself with Oracle Cloud and Altair systems, as well as any legacy data management practices. If you can speak to your experience with these systems or similar ones, it’ll give you an edge in the interview.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific situations, such as compliance issues or service improvements. Prepare by thinking through potential scenarios and your approach to resolving them, showcasing your analytical and problem-solving skills.
