Payroll & HR Systems

Payroll & HR Systems Manager About the Role

We're looking for an experienced Payroll & HR Systems Manager to lead the delivery of an outsourced payroll service while driving excellence across HR systems, data and reporting.

This is a varied role where you'll combine payroll expertise with systems management, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time while maintaining robust HR data and providing insightful workforce reporting. You'll work closely with colleagues across HR, Finance and external providers to continually improve processes, compliance and the employee experience.

• Manage the end-to-end outsourced payroll process, ensuring accuracy, compliance and timely delivery.
• Validate payroll data, resolve discrepancies and complete all pre-payroll checks before approval.
• Act as the key contact for payroll, pension and benefits providers.
• Administer employee benefit schemes and respond to payroll and pension queries.
• Support annual pay reviews, salary modelling and payroll-related financial planning.
• Monitor legislative changes and ensure payroll processes remain compliant.
• Review and improve payroll procedures to increase efficiency and reduce risk.
• Lead the management, maintenance and optimisation of HR and payroll systems.
• Act as the systems expert, supporting users and resolving system queries.
• Produce regular HR metrics, dashboards and management reports covering areas such as headcount, absence, diversity and workforce trends.
• Ensure HR data is accurate, secure and compliant with data protection requirements.
• Identify opportunities to automate processes and improve system functionality.
• Support system upgrades, testing and implementation of new features.
• Line manage and develop one team member.
• Work collaboratively across HR, Finance and external suppliers to deliver an efficient people service.
• Build strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Share best practice and contribute to continuous improvement across the HR function.

You'll have significant experience managing payroll alongside HR systems and data, with excellent analytical skills and a passion for improving processes.

You'll bring:

• Proven end-to-end payroll experience.
• Strong knowledge of payroll legislation and compliance.
• Experience managing HRIS and payroll systems.
• Advanced Excel and strong reporting skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and analytical capability.
• The ability to communicate complex information clearly to a range of stakeholders.
• Experience driving system improvements and automation.
• A collaborative approach with excellent organisational skills.

A payroll qualification (such as CIPP) or equivalent experience would be advantageous.