At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage payroll, HR administration, and financial reporting to support the Union of Students.
- Company: Join a vibrant organisation dedicated to empowering students and championing their voices.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive work environment, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team atmosphere with a focus on collaboration and student advocacy.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while developing your finance and HR skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in payroll management and strong attention to detail required.
The Union of Students are looking for a Payroll Senior Coordinator to assist the Head of Finance in the smooth running of the Union Finance Department. They will be responsible for the accurate and timely processing of payroll, helping to maintain precise financial records, and ensuring compliance with all relevant payroll regulations. This role involves collaborating with the Human Resources team to manage employee data and contribute to the smooth operation of the wider finance team. The post holder will assist in the preparation of accurate and timely Financial Management accounts and oversee the Sales Ledger and Finance Coordinator role ensuring that the sales ledger invoices are accurate and income is received. They will pay attention to detail and can work in a busy environment and to tight deadlines. It is expected that they will provide cover for the finance team in periods of absence as other team members would be expected to provide cover for this role under the same circumstances. As a member of the Union of Students the post holder will contribute to and support the delivery of our Strategic Plan.
Main Responsibilities
- Payroll Management
- Manage end-to-end administration of permanent and student payrolls using SAGE.
- Ensure full compliance with HMRC, pension and statutory requirements.
- Process monthly and four‑weekly payrolls, including timesheets, holiday pay and accruals.
- Maintain accurate payroll records, cost centre allocations and control account reconciliations.
- Complete all HMRC submissions (RTI, PAYE, P60s, P11Ds, P45s, Class 1A NI).
- Administer pension schemes, including monthly payments, annual reviews and statutory re‑enrolment.
- Manage payroll-related benefits including car parking deductions and healthcare schemes.
- Act as a payroll point of contact for staff, providing guidance and resolving queries.
- Human Resources Administration
- Coordinate documentation for new starters and leavers, including right‑to‑work checks.
- Maintain accurate employee records across HR systems and master spreadsheets.
- Administer holiday entitlements, pro‑rata calculations and service‑based enhancements.
- Monitor sickness absence and trigger alerts in line with organisational policy.
- Act as first point of contact for routine HR queries and provide basic workforce reporting.
- Support day‑to‑day HR administration to ensure smooth organisational operations.
- Financial Management & Reporting
- Support the Head of Finance in producing high‑quality, timely financial management information.
- Prepare monthly cost centre reports and ensure journals are accurate and submitted on schedule.
- Oversee sales ledger activity, ensuring invoices are accurate and income is received promptly.
- Identify and escalate financial risks or issues as they arise.
- Contribute to business case development and continuous improvement initiatives across teams.
The Union’s mission is to represent, support and empower students by championing their voices and interests at every level. Rooted in our values that we care for each other, we are better together, we share success and we are positive, we work to ensure every student feels included, supported and able to thrive. Through advocacy, collaboration and student‑led activity, we create opportunities for students to shape their experience, overcome barriers and make a positive impact within the University and beyond.
Payroll Senior Coordinator employer: Union of Students University of Derby
The Union of Students is an exceptional employer that prioritises a supportive and inclusive work culture, fostering collaboration and empowerment among its staff. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the organisation offers opportunities for professional development while ensuring a meaningful impact on the student community. Located within a vibrant university environment, employees benefit from a dynamic atmosphere that encourages innovation and teamwork, making it a rewarding place to work.
Contact Details:
Union of Students University of Derby Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll Senior Coordinator
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at the Union of Students on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your application noticed.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on payroll regulations and financial management. We recommend practising common interview questions related to payroll and HR administration so you can showcase your expertise confidently.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your attention to detail! During the interview, share examples of how you've maintained accurate records or managed tight deadlines in previous roles. This will demonstrate that you're the perfect fit for the busy environment at the Union.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our mission to support students.
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Senior Coordinator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Thoroughly:Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. It’s packed with info about what we’re looking for in a Payroll Senior Coordinator, so make sure you understand the key responsibilities and requirements.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:When you apply, don’t just send a generic CV. We want to see how your experience matches up with the role. Highlight your payroll management skills and any relevant HR experience to show us you’re the perfect fit!
Show Off Your Attention to Detail:This role is all about accuracy, so make sure your application reflects that. Double-check for typos and errors, and consider including examples of how you’ve maintained precise records or managed payroll processes in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure it gets to the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the application process there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Union of Students University of Derby
✨Know Your Payroll Stuff
Make sure you brush up on payroll processes, especially using SAGE. Familiarise yourself with HMRC regulations and statutory requirements, as these will likely come up in the interview. Being able to discuss your experience with payroll management confidently will show that you're ready for the role.
✨Show Off Your Attention to Detail
Since this role requires precision, be prepared to give examples of how you've maintained accurate records in previous jobs. You might want to mention specific instances where your attention to detail helped avoid errors or improved efficiency. This will demonstrate that you can handle the responsibilities of the position.
✨Collaboration is Key
The job involves working closely with HR and finance teams, so think about times when you've successfully collaborated with others. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork skills and how you’ve contributed to a positive work environment. This will show that you understand the importance of collaboration in achieving common goals.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you'd handle specific situations, like managing tight deadlines or resolving payroll queries. Practise your responses to these types of questions, focusing on your problem-solving skills and ability to stay calm under pressure. This will help you convey that you're well-equipped to thrive in a busy environment.
