Payroll Manager in Cardiff

Recently rebranded, Pxa (pronounced Pik-sa) is an all-in-house marketing agency based in the heart of Cardiff. Founded over a decade ago by CEO Darshan Patel, Pxa brings personality and innovation to every pixel we produce. We are seeking an experienced Payroll Manager to oversee end-to-end payroll operations across a portfolio of complex clients and multi-company structures. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate and compliant payroll delivery, managing a small payroll team, and supporting continuous improvement across payroll processes. The ideal candidate is technically strong, confident in handling high-volume and varied client needs, and proactive in staying up-to-date with legislative changes.

This is a full-time office based role for a Payroll Manager, based in Cardiff. The Payroll Manager will oversee and manage payroll processes, ensuring timely and accurate distribution of compensation to employees.

• Lead and deliver timely, accurate payroll processing for complex client portfolios, including multi-company and multi-frequency payrolls.
• Manage all payroll-related statutory requirements including RTI submissions, statutory payments (SSP, SMP, SPP, SAP, etc.), pension contributions, and attachment of earnings orders.
• Conduct monthly and annual reconciliations, ensuring compliance with year-end obligations such as P60s, P11Ds, and final submissions.
• Oversee pension scheme administration including auto-enrolment, re-enrolment, opt-outs, and scheme uploads.
• Maintain deep awareness of current payroll legislation, contributing to compliance improvements and risk reduction.
• Manage and mentor payroll processors/assistants, providing technical guidance, coaching, and performance oversight.
• Oversee workload allocation and quality assurance across the payroll team.
• Support onboarding and training plans to strengthen team capability and efficiency.
• Act as a senior point of contact for key clients, ensuring exceptional service delivery and proactive communication.
• Troubleshoot complex payroll queries and provide expert advice on payroll legislation and best practice.
• Collaborate with finance, HR, and operational teams to ensure seamless cross-departmental processes.
• Identify opportunities to streamline payroll processes, enhance accuracy, and improve client experience.
• Support technology adoption, system upgrades, and digitisation of payroll workflows where relevant.

• CIPP or IPPE Level 4/5 qualified (or equivalent), with active CIPP membership.
• Understanding of HMRC processes (PAYE, VAT, CIS, etc.).
• Recent refresher training completed in: RTI requirements, Statutory pay updates.
• Demonstrable experience of managing complex payrolls and multi-company environments.
• Handling year-end processes, pensions, and attachments of earnings.
• Managing and developing a payroll team.
• Strong working knowledge of payroll systems and Microsoft Excel.
• Understanding of ACAS employment law principles as they relate to payroll.
• Hold (or be working towards) AAT certificates or other finance-related qualifications.
• Experience working within a bureau, accountancy practice, or multi-client environment.

• Highly organised with exceptional attention to detail.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage multiple deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills, with the confidence to advise clients and lead a team.
• Proactive, collaborative, and committed to maintaining high standards of compliance and service.

It’s an exciting time to join the Pxa team while we’re growing and gaining new experiences. Alongside this, you can expect:

• Free on-site parking
• Personal development with funded courses
• Flexi working opportunities
• Friendly and relaxed culture

Closing date: Friday 27th February 2026, midnight. Shortlisting w/c 2nd March 2026.

Note: This job description and person specification will be subject to review in the light of changing circumstances and is not intended to be rigid or inflexible but should be regarded as providing guidelines and accountabilities within which the individual works.