Interim HR Systems & Payroll Manager

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Interim HR Systems & Payroll Manager to lead payroll and HR system operations for a national charity during a critical period of change. Working primarily remotely with occasional travel to London and Reading, you will become the trusted expert who ensures seamless payroll delivery and drives system optimisation.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop a small People Systems & Payroll team of two.
• Manage end‑to‑end monthly payroll processing, ensuring accuracy, compliance and timely delivery.
• Maintain and optimise HR systems to improve data integrity, efficiency and self‑service capabilities.
• Produce payroll, workforce and KPI reports to support strategic decision‑making.
• Partner with Finance for payroll reconciliations, audits and statutory compliance.
• Oversee pensions, payroll providers and employee lifecycle administration.
• Identify and implement process improvements and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Act as subject‑matter expert on UK payroll legislation and HMRC compliance.

Required profile

• Proven experience managing payroll operations and HR systems in a UK environment.
• Strong analytical and data manipulation abilities.
• Ability to lead a small team and influence stakeholders.
• Excellent knowledge of UK payroll legislation, HMRC rules and payroll governance.

Required skills

• UK payroll legislation
• HMRC compliance
• Payroll processing
• HR systems administration
• Data analysis
• KPI reporting

What we offer

• Purpose‑driven charitable environment.
• Predominantly remote working with occasional travel.
• Competitive daily rate of £300 (umbrella).
• Potential for permanent placement after the initial contract.