Role Purpose
Job Description
Title: Payroll Specialist
Reports to: Head of People
Direct Reports: None
Salary: £37,000 per annum
The Payroll & People Specialist is responsible for ensuring the effective delivery of all payroll processing and the ongoing development and administration of compensation and benefits across Wenzels. This role requires a proactive, detail-oriented professional who can manage end-to-end payroll operations, support strategic HR initiatives, and ensure full compliance with statutory obligations. Additionally, the role provides analytical insights and recommendations to support the People function in maintaining a competitive and compliant total reward offering.
Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities
Payroll
- Manage monthly payroll processing accurately and in line with statutory deadlines.
- Complete monthly PAYE and NI reconciliations, ensuring timely payment preparation.
- Manage submissions for salary sacrifice schemes and liaise with agencies on Attachment of Earnings and Court Orders.
- Ensure Benefit in Kind items are accurately recorded and reported through P11D and PSA submissions.
- Maintain compliance with payroll legislation and HMRC requirements.
- Lead preparation of the monthly Payroll KPI Dashboard.
- Forecast and plan future payroll requirements through data analysis and reporting.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders to deliver payroll and compliance projects effectively.
- Provide expert advice on complex payroll and compliance matters.
- Identify and implement process improvements for efficiency and accuracy.
- Act as a subject matter expert for payroll, compliance, and benefits, supporting HR and Finance.
- Complete ONS submissions and Gender Pay Gap reporting as required.
Compensation & Benefits
- Partner with the People team to design and maintain fair and competitive compensation and bonus structures.
- Assist with job analysis and compensation classification exercises.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of benefit packages using employee feedback and benchmarking data.
- Liaise with brokers and benefit vendors to ensure smooth service delivery.
- Identify trends and patterns in compensation and benefits to maintain competitiveness.
- Conduct research to inform benefit programme improvements.
- Work with Finance to ensure accurate and timely P11D submissions.
- Support benchmarking and evaluation of existing benefit plans.
General Responsibilities
All employees are expected to:
- Uphold Wenzel's mission, values, and professional standards.
- Comply with company policies, procedures, and legal/regulatory requirements.
- Maintain confidentiality and protect sensitive information.
- Contribute to a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace.
- Demonstrate flexibility, teamwork, and a proactive approach to achieving business goals.
- Undertake additional tasks or projects as required by business needs.
Skills & Experience
- Proven experience managing end-to-end payroll for a medium or large organisation.
- In-depth understanding of UK payroll legislation, taxation, and compliance.
- Experience managing compensation and benefits programmes, including vendor liaison.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; able to interpret data and provide insights.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- High attention to detail and accuracy; able to manage multiple priorities.
- Advanced proficiency in HRIS, T&A, payroll systems, and Microsoft Excel.
- Relevant qualification in payroll or HR (e.g. CIPP, CIPD) preferred.
Key Attributes
- Proactive and forward-thinking with a continuous improvement mindset.
- Demonstrates integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism.
- Collaborative and adaptable; works effectively across departments.
- Results-driven, well-organised, and resilient under pressure.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary: £35,000 per annum
- 50% discount at Wenzel's Stores
- Company pension scheme
- 28 days' holiday (including bank holidays)
- Extra paid day off for your birthday
- Training and development opportunities, including apprenticeships and career progression
- Access to a comprehensive Wellbeing Centre and 24/7 Employee Assistance Helpline offering free, confidential advice
Hiring Process
- An initial phone or video interview
- A final face-to-face interview at our Head Office
Employment is contingent upon satisfactory reference checks.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Payroll Specialist in Watford employer: Wenzel's the Bakers Ltd.
Wenzel’s the Bakers is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and development. With competitive pay, generous benefits including free meals and discounts, and a commitment to career progression through excellent training opportunities, Wenzel’s fosters a supportive environment for its team members. Join us in our expanding network of shops across the North-West and Greater London, where your passion for food and customer service can truly shine.
