Payroll Manager in Altrincham

Role Overview

We're looking for an experienced Payroll Manager to lead and shape the payroll function at Trafford Leisure.

This is more than a payroll processing role.

As our payroll subject matter expert, you'll take ownership of the entire payroll operation, ensuring our people are paid accurately, compliantly and on time, while driving continuous improvement across systems, processes and controls.

You will oversee payroll for 300+ employees across multiple leisure and community sites.

Key Responsibilities

• Take ownership of Trafford Leisure's end-to-end payroll function, ensuring an accurate, compliant and customer-focused service.
• Be the organisation's payroll expert, providing trusted advice and guidance to managers and colleagues.
• Lead payroll reporting, workforce insight and analysis to support strategic and financial decision‑making.
• Drive continuous improvement across payroll systems, processes and controls, maximising efficiency and accuracy.
• Lead year‑end payroll activities and statutory reporting requirements, ensuring full compliance with legislation.
• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders, payroll providers and external partners.
• Ensure effective governance, audit readiness and the secure handling of confidential employee data.
• Support organisational projects, workforce planning and reward initiatives through payroll expertise and insight.

Qualifications and Experience

• Significant experience managing end-to-end payroll operations.
• Experience within a multi‑site, operational or shift‑based environment.
• Strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation, HMRC requirements and statutory reporting.
• Experience managing audits, reconciliations, pensions administration and year‑end processes.
• Experience using payroll, HR and workforce management systems (Humanforce, i Trent or similar).
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to turn data into meaningful business insight.
• Advanced Excel skills and confidence producing reports and workforce information.
• A high level of accuracy, attention to detail and professional integrity.
• Confidence to build relationships, influence stakeholders and positively challenge where required.
• A discreet and trustworthy approach when handling confidential information.

Benefits

• Pension scheme.
• 32 days' holiday, rising incrementally to 39 days after 5 years' service (including 8 bank holidays and 2 Trafford Leisure days).
• Company sick pay.
• Health and Ride 2 Work schemes.
• Complimentary Fitness Membership for you (saving you up to £450 a year).
• Heavily discounted Fitness Membership for up to 5 of your Family and Friends (saving each person up to £300 a year).
• 24/7 access to a GP Employee health scheme including Confidential Counselling.
• Employee Assistance Programme, allowing employees to claim back up to £1,150 per year in healthcare costs.
• Access to a Perks at Work scheme for discounts.
• Access to Manchester Credit Union for savings and loans.
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