At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage payroll for 500+ team members and ensure compliance with all processes.
- Company: Fast-growing hospitality group focused on building great teams.
- Benefits: Permanent position with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on accuracy and data-driven decisions.
- Why this job: Be the heartbeat of people operations and make a real impact on team success.
- Qualifications: 2+ years of payroll experience and strong attention to detail.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
We are working with a fast-growing hospitality group that believes great teams are built on great people—and great people need great processes behind them. They are looking for a People Administration & Payroll Manager who thrives in the detail, loves data, and wants to get stuck into the numbers to help their People function thrive. You’ll be the heartbeat of our people operations, responsible for running a payroll of 500+ team members, managing their external payroll provider, and ensuring every joiner, mover, and leaver is processed with precision. You’ll work closely with Finance, Operations, and the wider People Team to deliver accurate reporting, maintain compliance, and support business decisions through data.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage end-to-end payroll for both salaried and hourly team members, including monthly tronc breakdowns and payments.
- Oversee all joiners, movers, and leavers from both payroll and administrative perspectives.
- Handle SSP, SMP, PAYE, NI payments and reconciliations across the business.
- Manage the relationship with the pension provider and complete year-end processes including P11Ds.
- Generate reporting and narrative on TRONC, pay bandings, headcount, turnover, and absence data.
- Collaborate with the Finance team on monthly payroll journals and balance sheets.
- Be the expert in Right to Work legislation, supporting 100% compliance.
- Own and maintain the Workforce Management platform, working with Operations, Talent, and Systems teams.
- Manage all people documentation including contracts, policies, and disciplinary templates.
- Support projects set by the People Director, including Gender Pay Gap reporting and HR legislation research.
- Administer salary sacrifice benefits, holiday records, and employee equipment tracking.
Who You Are
- Payroll specialist with at least 2 years’ experience running both salaried and hourly payroll structures.
- Someone who lives in the detail—accuracy is non-negotiable.
- English literate with strong letter and policy writing skills.
- Excel-proficient with a love for analytics and reporting.
- Adaptable and fast-paced, able to move through a task list efficiently without sacrificing quality.
- A proactive, independent worker with a solution-based approach.
- Reliable and collaborative—someone who shows up for the team and jumps in where needed.
- Experienced with system implementation and project work (desirable but not essential).
Job Tenure: Permanent
Payroll Specialist – London employer: Wagstaff Recruitment
Wagstaff Recruitment is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. With structured pay progression, comprehensive training, and a focus on work-life balance, this role in Durham provides a meaningful opportunity for healthcare professionals to make a difference while enjoying predictable hours and generous benefits.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Payroll Specialist – London
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Wagstaff Recruitment. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Wagstaff Recruitment
Don't be shy about reaching out to Wagstaff Recruitment directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Payroll Specialist – London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Wagstaff Recruitment and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Wagstaff Recruitment
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
