Payroll Manager in Guildford

As one of the world's largest networks of audit, tax and consulting firms, RSM delivers big ideas and premium service to help middle-market businesses thrive. We are a fast-growing firm with big ambitions – we have a clear goal to become the premium adviser to the middle market, globally. This vision touches everything we do, motivating and inspiring us to become better every day. If you are looking for a firm where you can build a future and make an impact, then RSM is the place for you.

As a Payroll Manager, you will directly manage and empower a team of payroll professionals that include Team Leaders, Seniors and Payroll Executives. You will report to the Associate Director for your office, and you will take responsibility for the operation and profitability of your team’s client portfolios. You will be a point of escalation for technical and commercial issues encountered by your teams, and ensure the accurate and timely delivery of HR, Payroll and Pension Administration services for various clients in accordance with statutory regulations.

A key feature of the role will be to lead and effectively manage the team to ensure our clients receive a quality service in all respects. Working closely with the Senior Leadership Team, you will also contribute to our strategic business objectives of growth, client experience, efficiencies and financials. This is a pivotal role, with the opportunity to make a positive contribution towards the overall future development and long-term success of the payroll teams and office. Continuously adapting to changing landscapes and with a brilliant infrastructure of specialists you will be at the forefront of payroll, becoming a key figure within the group developing our staff to become "Beyond Ordinary".

You will make an impact by:

• People Leadership & Culture Building – Lead by example to create a positive, professional, and solutions-focused team culture, while building strong relationships across service lines and positioning payroll as a trusted work stream. Support team members to build confidence, resilience, and ownership in their roles within a high-trust, collaborative environment.
• Empowerment & Engagement – Empower individuals through clear direction, meaningful responsibility, and autonomy, while recognising contributions and encouraging continuous improvement against set KPI’s. Foster engagement by connecting the team’s work to the wider goals and strategy of the firm.
• Communication & Influence – Communicate clearly and consistently to ensure alignment with appraisal objectives, promoting a constructive, solutions-oriented approach to challenges. Build strong relationships and encourage a collaborative, shared sense of success across the organisation.
• Team Development & Performance – Provide ongoing coaching, clear expectations, and constructive feedback to support both performance and personal growth. Develop talent and encourage a can-do mindset that drives continuous improvement.
• Operational Payroll Excellence – Ensure accurate, compliant, and timely payroll delivery while continuously improving processes to enhance efficiency and employee experience. Use data and collaboration with HR to drive the service line forward.

What we are looking for:

Are you someone who thrives on variety, loves learning new things, and enjoys connecting with people? If you can spot inefficiencies in everyday life and are passionate about making improvements, this role is perfect for you!

• Demonstrates strong self-awareness and emotional control, maintaining a calm, constructive approach under pressure while responding effectively to the needs and dynamics of the team. Builds a positive, balanced environment that supports both wellbeing and performance.
• Effectively develops individuals through coaching, clear feedback, and tailored support, building both capability and confidence. Encourages accountability, continuous learning, and personal growth.
• Leads with a solutions-focused, optimistic mindset, influencing others to take ownership and contribute positively. Creates collaboration, engagement, and shared responsibility without relying on hierarchy.
• Communicates clearly at all levels, developing understanding while promoting constructive, outcome-focused results. Builds strong relationships with staff and partners positioning payroll as a trusted partner.
• Maintains high standards of accuracy, organisation, and efficiency while managing complex payroll processes. Uses insight and structured thinking to identify improvements and enhance both performance and employee experience.
• Leads change with clarity and positivity, helping others adapt and stay aligned with business goals. Takes ownership of outcomes making sure individuals are accountable, proactive, and committed to delivering results.

What we can offer you:

• Hybrid and Flexible working
• 27 Days Holiday (with the option of purchasing additional days)
• Lifestyle, Health, and Wellbeing including financial wellbeing benefits such as financial tools, electric car scheme and access to a virtual GP
• Access to a suite of 300+ courses on demand developed by our in-house Talent Development team

Diversity and Inclusion at RSM: At RSM, we want to create a strong sense of belonging so that people of all identities, backgrounds, and cultures feel they can bring their true self to work. Our clients come from all walks of life. We aim to achieve that same diversity of background, experience and perspective in our own teams, so that we can genuinely understand our client's needs. Diverse teams bring a broader range of ideas and insights to work. That’s why we’re working together to ensure our firm’s principles and processes support a firm culture that embraces difference and strengthens inclusion.