At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead payroll processing and compliance while supporting a major HR system upgrade.
- Company: Dynamic company focused on employee well-being and development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous annual leave, and health benefits.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a team where your expertise makes a real difference in payroll operations.
- Qualifications: Extensive payroll experience and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 45000 € per year.
This role is responsible for providing expert-level knowledge and guidance on all aspects of payroll processing, compliance, and systems. The Payroll SME will ensure accurate and timely payroll delivery, act as a key resource for complex payroll-related queries and projects as well as support on a project to implement new software.
What you'll be doing as a Payroll SME:
- Supporting the delivery of a major HR and payroll system upgrade, ensuring seamless transition and minimal business disruption.
- Completing the in‑house monthly internal payroll activities, adhering to internal and external compliance and controls.
- Working with the wider payroll team to ensure accurate end‑to‑end payroll processing for employees.
- Providing training to the Payroll HR Coordinators on payroll processes and the wider People Services Team when processes are created or changed.
- Working with internal and external stakeholders to complete a change impact assessment before making improvements.
- Supporting internal and external audits by providing required payroll data and documentation and answering queries.
- Prioritising and completing incoming work, handling highly confidential information with integrity.
- Ensuring policies and processes are up to date and working with the Pay and Benefits Manager to ensure changes affecting payroll are enacted, communicated to the wider team, and associated documentation updated.
Base location: Hybrid – Reading. Working hours: 36 hours, Monday to Friday.
Essential criteria:
- Extensive experience working in a large UK payroll team.
- Experience in using payroll systems.
- Excellent communication and customer‑service skills.
- Attention to detail and accuracy.
Additional skills and experiences:
- Certificate in Payroll Practice.
- Chartered Institute of Personnel Development (CIPD) or equivalent professional qualification or HR knowledge.
- BA in Accounting, Finance, or Human Resources.
- Experience with SuccessFactors.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary up to £45,000 per annum, depending on experience.
- Annual leave: 26 days per year, increasing to 30 days with length of service, plus bank holidays.
- Performance‑related pay plan linked to company performance measures and targets.
- Generous Pension Scheme through AON.
- Health and well‑being benefits: annual health MOTs, physiotherapy, counselling, Cycle‑to‑Work schemes, shopping vouchers, and life assurance.
We welcome applications from everyone and want to ensure you feel supported throughout the recruitment process. If you need any adjustments, whether that's extra time, accessible formats, or anything else, let us know.
Payroll SME in Suffolk employer: Thames Water
As a Payroll SME at our company, you will join a dynamic and supportive team in Reading, where we prioritise employee well-being and professional growth. With competitive salaries, generous annual leave, and a robust pension scheme, we foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement, ensuring that every team member has the resources and training needed to excel in their role. Our commitment to inclusivity and support throughout the recruitment process reflects our dedication to creating a rewarding and meaningful workplace for all employees.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll SME in Suffolk
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the payroll industry and let them know you're on the lookout for new opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a job that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your payroll knowledge and systems. Be ready to discuss your experience with compliance and how you've handled complex payroll queries in the past. Show them you’re the expert they need!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your soft skills! Communication and customer service are key in payroll roles. Think of examples where you’ve excelled in these areas and be ready to share them during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that Payroll SME role! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are eager to join our team and make an impact.
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll SME in Suffolk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your extensive experience in payroll processing and compliance. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Payroll SME, so don’t be shy about showcasing your expertise!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for the Payroll SME role. Share specific examples of your past experiences that relate to the job description and show us your passion for payroll.
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since excellent communication is key for this role, make sure your application reflects that. Use clear and concise language, and don’t forget to proofread for any typos or errors. We love attention to detail!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the Payroll SME position. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thames Water
✨Know Your Payroll Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your payroll knowledge before the interview. Understand the ins and outs of payroll processing, compliance, and systems. Being able to discuss specific payroll scenarios or challenges you've faced will show that you're not just familiar with the basics but are truly an expert.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Payroll SME, you'll need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully trained others or resolved complex payroll queries. This will demonstrate your ability to convey information clearly and build relationships within a team.
✨Be Ready for Change Management Questions
Since this role involves supporting system upgrades and changes, expect questions about your experience with change management. Think of times when you've contributed to a project that required adapting processes or systems, and be ready to explain how you handled it.
✨Highlight Your Attention to Detail
Accuracy is key in payroll, so be prepared to discuss how you ensure precision in your work. Bring up specific examples where your attention to detail made a difference, whether it was catching an error before payroll was processed or ensuring compliance with regulations.
