At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global payroll transformation and implement innovative systems across multiple countries.
- Company: Join Trustmarque Ultima, a powerhouse in technology and digital transformation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a flexible 30-hour work week with excellent work-life balance.
- Other info: Be part of a culture that values teamwork, excellence, and empowerment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of payroll in a dynamic, collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in multi-country payroll and transformation leadership.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
Lead Global Payroll Transformation for one of the UK's leading technology businesses. Trustmarque Ultima brings together two of the UK's most respected technology organisations, creating a powerhouse of expertise across cloud, digital transformation, managed services, AI, data and cyber security.
As our business continues to grow and evolve following our merger, we're looking for an exceptional Head of Group Payroll to lead the transformation of our global payroll function. This is far more than a traditional payroll leadership role. You'll have the opportunity to design, implement and embed a best-in-class global payroll operation, introducing new systems, standardising processes and creating the governance and controls that will support a growing international business.
This role offers an excellent work-life balance, working across five days per week on a reduced-hours contract of 30 hours per week, providing flexibility whilst maintaining a key leadership position within the business. If you enjoy building, improving and making a genuine impact, this is an opportunity to shape the future of payroll across our Group.
The Role
Reporting into senior Finance leadership, you'll take ownership of payroll operations across multiple international territories including the UK, US, Australia, Singapore and South Africa. Working within a lean team, you'll combine strategic leadership with a hands-on approach, leading the implementation of a new global payroll platform while ensuring the accurate and compliant delivery of payroll across every region.
You’ll be responsible for:
- Leading the implementation and optimisation of a new global payroll system
- Standardising payroll processes across multiple countries
- Owning payroll governance, controls and compliance
- Managing relationships with international payroll providers
- Driving payroll accuracy, automation and continuous improvement
- Ensuring seamless payroll delivery during system transitions and future growth
- Supporting and developing a Payroll Administrator within a collaborative team environment
About You
We're looking for someone who has successfully led payroll transformation within a complex international organisation. You’ll bring:
- Extensive experience managing multi-country payroll
- A proven track record delivering payroll system implementations or large transformation programmes
- Strong experience with cloud-based payroll and HRIS platforms such as Rippling, Workday or HiBob
- Excellent knowledge of payroll governance, controls, reconciliations and compliance
- Experience managing outsourced payroll providers across multiple jurisdictions
- The confidence to operate strategically whilst remaining hands-on when required
- Experience within a post-merger environment or global payroll transformation programme would be highly advantageous.
Why Trustmarque Ultima?
This is a genuinely exciting opportunity to influence the future of a newly combined organisation. You’ll join a business investing heavily in technology, people and transformation, where your expertise will directly shape how payroll is delivered across the Group.
At Trustmarque Ultima, our culture is built around three core values:
- Team – We believe the best outcomes come from collaboration and supporting one another.
- Excellence – We continually strive to deliver exceptional results for our customers and each other.
- Empowerment – We trust our people, encourage innovation and give individuals the freedom to make a real impact.
Head of Payroll in Reading employer: Ultima
Trustmarque Ultima is an excellent employer for those seeking a meaningful career in security architecture, particularly within the vibrant tech landscape. With a commitment to employee growth, a diverse working environment, and flexible benefits, we empower our team to thrive while designing secure and compliant solutions for our clients. Join us in a role that not only values your expertise but also fosters innovation and collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Payroll in Reading
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Ultima!
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Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Ultima.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Payroll in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Ultima. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Ultima and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Ultima. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Ultima's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ultima
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Ultima.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Ultima will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Ultima and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
