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- Tasks: Lead payroll operations and oversee pension workstreams with precision and expertise.
- Company: Join a supportive HR department in a dynamic educational environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension enrolment, and a collaborative workplace culture.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth in a role that values excellence and equality.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by optimising payroll processes and mentoring a dedicated team.
- Qualifications: Experience in payroll management and understanding of UK legislation required.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 45000 £ per year.
We are seeking an accomplished Payroll & Pensions Manager to lead our payroll function and provide expert oversight of our pension workstreams. This critical role sits within the HR department and is responsible for the integrity, compliance, and strategic optimization of our end-to-end payroll operations. The successful candidate will act as the organization’s subject matter expert on all matters relating to remuneration, statutory legislation, and superannuation.
Strategic Responsibilities
- Operational Governance: Lead the end-to-end monthly payroll cycle via iTrent (MHR), ensuring absolute accuracy in PAYE, National Insurance, and contractual calculations.
- Pension Stewardship: Provide technical leadership on the Teachers' Pension Scheme (TPS) and the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS), including complex monthly reconciliations and statutory filings.
- System Evolution: Drive the continuous improvement of iTrent workflows, utilizing automation and Business Objects Reporting to generate sophisticated workforce metrics for senior leadership.
- Regulatory Liaison: Serve as the primary point of contact for HMRC and the DWP, managing all FPS/EPS submissions and ensuring the organization remains ahead of legislative changes.
- Team Leadership: Provide professional mentorship and performance management for a Payroll/HR Administrator, fostering a culture of precision and resilience.
The Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate will be a methodical professional with a track record of managing complex financial data within a medium-to-large scale enterprise.
Essential Professional Criteria
- Extensive experience in Payroll Management with a deep understanding of current UK taxation and payroll legislation.
- Proficiency in managing complex, integrated payroll software systems.
- Exceptional standards of confidentiality and professional discretion.
- A minimum of Level 2 (or equivalent) in English and Mathematics.
Preferred Qualifications & Attributes
- Professional accreditation (e.g., CIPP or AAT NVQ 4).
- Sector‑specific expertise within Education or Local Government.
- Advanced capability in iTrent (MHR) and data analytics.
Remuneration & Benefits
- Annual Salary: £42,000 - £45,000.
- Pension: Enrollment in the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
- Professional Environment: A collaborative and supportive HR department committed to excellence.
Why Apply?
If you are a proactive professional who enjoys a mix of technical system management and people leadership, we want to hear from you. You will play a vital role in a team that values professional standards and equality.
Payroll & Pensions Manager in Cambridge employer: Randstad Staffing
Contact Detail:
Randstad Staffing Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll & Pensions Manager in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the payroll and pensions field. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of payroll legislation and pension schemes. Be ready to discuss how you’ve tackled challenges in previous roles. We want to see your expertise shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills with a portfolio! If you’ve worked on complex payroll systems or led projects, gather evidence of your achievements. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨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 Payroll & Pensions Manager in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Payroll & Pensions Manager role. Highlight your expertise in payroll management and any relevant software systems like iTrent, as this will show us you’re the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about payroll and pensions, and how your background aligns with our needs. Don’t forget to mention your leadership experience and any specific achievements.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: We want to see your proficiency in payroll legislation and software. Be specific about your experience with complex reconciliations and statutory filings. This will help us understand your technical capabilities and how you can contribute to our team.
Apply Through Our Website: To make sure your application gets to us directly, apply through our website. It’s the best way for us to track your application and ensure it reaches the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who follow instructions!
How to prepare for a job interview at Randstad Staffing
✨Know Your Payroll Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK payroll legislation and taxation. Be ready to discuss how you've managed payroll processes in the past, especially using systems like iTrent. This will show that you're not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience with payroll software and data analytics. If you've improved workflows or implemented automation in previous roles, share those examples. Highlighting your technical prowess will demonstrate that you can drive system evolution effectively.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills, especially around complex payroll issues or pension schemes. Think of specific scenarios where you had to navigate challenges, such as dealing with HMRC or managing reconciliations, and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Emphasise Team Leadership Experience
Since this role involves mentoring a Payroll/HR Administrator, be prepared to discuss your leadership style. Share examples of how you've fostered a culture of precision and resilience within your team. This will show that you’re not only a technical expert but also a supportive leader.