At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage payroll operations, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- Company: Join a large, complex organisation in London with a hybrid work model.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, potential for contract extension, and flexible working.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic and supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by driving payroll transformation and leading a dedicated team.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in payroll management and strong compliance knowledge required.
The predicted salary is between 35.88 - 35.88 £ per hour.
£35.88 per hour PAYE | £48.99 per hour Umbrella
Location: London / Hybrid 1 day a week onsite
Contract: end Date February 2027 possible extension beyond this
We are currently recruiting for an experienced Head of Payroll to join a large and complex organisation in London on a hybrid basis. This is a senior payroll leadership role with responsibility for the overall accuracy, compliance and delivery of UK and overseas payroll, alongside leading a team and driving continuous improvement across the payroll function.
Key responsibilities
- Lead and manage the payroll team, ensuring accurate and timely payroll delivery
- Oversee monthly payroll, gross-to-net sign-off, HMRC/statutory submissions and year-end processes
- Manage pension auto-enrolment, payroll deductions, reconciliations and third-party payments
- Ensure robust payroll controls, procedures, audit compliance and exception reporting
- Drive process improvement, efficiency and payroll transformation
- Work closely with HR, Finance, senior stakeholders, auditors and external providers
- Manage complex payroll issues and ensure a high-quality, customer-focused service
- Lead and support change across payroll systems, processes and ways of working
About you
We're looking for an experienced payroll leader with:
- Significant experience managing complex, high-volume payroll operations
- Strong UK payroll, HMRC, pensions and statutory compliance knowledge
- Experience leading and developing payroll teams
- Proven experience delivering payroll process improvement and change
- Strong reconciliation, controls and audit experience
Head of Payroll in London employer: Solos Consultants
Join a dynamic and inclusive team in Reading, where we prioritise employee well-being and professional growth. As a Pay, Reward and Benefits Manager, you'll enjoy competitive rates, a supportive work culture, and opportunities for advancement within a large organisation that values your contributions. Experience a hybrid working model that promotes work-life balance while being part of a meaningful mission.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Payroll in London
✨Get Your Foot in the Door with Temp Agencies
Temporary roles in HR are often filled through agencies. Reach out to temp agencies that specialise in HR placements. They can help you find gigs quickly and give you a chance to demonstrate your skills in real-world scenarios.
✨Network at HR Events and Workshops
Dive into local HR events, workshops, and seminars. These are great opportunities to meet professionals already in the field and might lead to temporary positions. Be sure to have a chat, exchange contacts, and express your interest in on-the-spot opportunities!
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
In the temporary HR world, being adaptable is key. When you're networking or interviewing, highlight your ability to quickly learn and fill diverse roles, from recruitment to employee onboarding. Make it clear that you’re ready to dive in at any time!
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don’t forget to check out the opportunities at Solos Consultants and apply directly via our website. This way, you can express your interest in temporary roles and get ahead in the application process!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Payroll in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your People Skills:In HR, showcasing your interpersonal skills is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you have dealing with talent management, resolving conflicts, or facilitating workshops. We want to see your ability to connect with others!
Tailor Your CV to HR:Use HR-specific language in your CV and cover letter. Mention any specific HR tools, software, or methodologies you’re familiar with, like ATS systems or performance management frameworks. This will show that you’re not just a good fit, but you've got the know-how to back it up!
Emphasise Your Flexibility:Since this is a temporary role, emphasising your adaptability and willingness to learn quickly is crucial. Include examples of how you've successfully jumped into new environments before or handled sudden changes in previous jobs. We love a team player who can hit the ground running!
Availability Matters:In your application, make sure to clarify your availability and commitment to the temporary position. This will help us understand when you can start and how you fit into our plans at Solos Consultants. So, don’t be shy about laying it all out there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Solos Consultants
✨Showcase Your Adaptability
Given that this is a temporary HR role at Solos Consultants, it's crucial to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to adapt quickly. You might be thrown into new projects or systems, so share examples of how you've successfully navigated changes in past roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with HR Tools
Many HR positions require familiarity with tools like HRIS or ATS systems. Before the interview, brush up on the specific software that Solos Consultants uses—if you see any mentioned in the job posting, make sure you're ready to discuss them and your experience with similar tools.
✨Your Motivation Matters
As a temp, it's essential to convey your motivation for this role. Employers often look for candidates who are not just filling a position, but who are genuinely keen on contributing effectively in a short period. Consider sharing why you’re passionate about HR and how you see yourself adding value at Solos Consultants.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
HR interviews often include situational questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think about common HR challenges, like dealing with conflict or managing onboarding efficiently, and prepare to discuss how you would handle these situations at Solos Consultants.
