Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead payroll operations for over 1,300 employees and ensure compliance with regulations.
- Company: Established organisation in the Education sector with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: 37 days annual leave, local government pension, wellbeing support, and professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in payroll management while enjoying a hybrid working environment.
- Qualifications: 5+ years of payroll experience and strong IT skills required.
- Other info: Opportunities for salary progression and excellent career growth.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 60000 £ per year.
About the Client
Wade Macdonald are working with a large and well-established organisation within the Education sector. With multiple sites and a sizeable workforce, they are committed to maintaining high standards of service delivery and operational excellence. They cultivate a supportive atmosphere where mentorship and professional development are central to their mission.
About the Job
This is a key role within the finance function, reporting to the Finance Director and overseeing all aspects of payroll for a workforce of over 1,300 employees. You will be the primary contact for managing the outsourced payroll bureau, ensuring compliance with HMRC and pension regulations, and producing essential payroll data for internal and external stakeholders. The role also involves working closely with HR and Finance to ensure accuracy and efficiency across payroll operations.
Duties will include:
- Managing and overseeing the outsourced payroll service to ensure accurate and timely payments.
- Acting as the primary contact for internal payroll matters and external bodies, including HMRC and pension providers.
- Supervising and appraising a small payroll team.
- Reviewing payroll data, deductions, and amendments in line with policy and authorising payments.
- Leading on year-end processes including pension returns, P60s, and benefit reporting.
- Supporting system testing and upgrades, particularly around statutory pay and annual uplifts.
- Providing payroll reporting and data analysis for audit, budgeting, and forecasting purposes.
- Ensuring deadlines are met for payments to third parties and responding to data requests.
- Participating in inductions, offering payroll and pension guidance to new staff.
About the Successful Applicant
You will have at least five years’ experience in payroll, ideally within education, the public sector, or a similarly complex environment. A deep understanding of defined benefit pension schemes, strong IT and Excel skills, and up-to-date knowledge of UK payroll legislation are essential. You’ll need excellent communication skills, a meticulous approach, and the ability to manage competing deadlines with accuracy.
What You Will Receive in Return
37 days annual leave (plus bank holidays and Christmas closure), access to a local government pension scheme, and opportunities for salary progression following annual appraisals. You'll also have access to wellbeing support, including 1:1 therapy, an employee assistance programme, and free gym use. Professional development is supported.
Head of Payroll in Uxbridge employer: Wade Macdonald
Contact Detail:
Wade Macdonald Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Payroll in Uxbridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector and let them know you're on the hunt for a Head of Payroll role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of UK payroll legislation and defined benefit pension schemes. We recommend practising common interview questions and scenarios related to payroll management to show off your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your soft skills! Communication and teamwork are key in this role, so be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with HR and Finance teams in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that job! We make it easy for you to submit your application and keep track of your progress. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Payroll in Uxbridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of Payroll role. Highlight your experience in payroll management, especially in complex environments like education or the public sector. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your understanding of UK payroll legislation and your experience with pension schemes. Let us know how you can contribute to our supportive atmosphere.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves liaising with various stakeholders, it's crucial to demonstrate your communication skills. In your application, give examples of how you've effectively communicated complex payroll information in the past. We love clear and concise communicators!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us that you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wade Macdonald
✨Know Your Payroll Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your payroll knowledge, especially UK legislation and defined benefit pension schemes. Be ready to discuss how you've handled payroll processes in the past and any challenges you've faced.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Payroll, you'll be supervising a small team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams before, focusing on mentorship and professional development. Highlight your approach to managing competing deadlines and ensuring accuracy.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with the education sector and the specific challenges it faces regarding payroll. This will help you demonstrate your understanding of the organisation's mission and how you can contribute to their operational excellence.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about payroll systems and data analysis. Brush up on your IT and Excel skills, and be ready to discuss how you've used technology to improve payroll operations or reporting in previous roles.
