Payroll Assistant Manager

About the role

We are looking for a Payroll Assistant Manager to lead a high‑quality payroll service for a diverse portfolio of clients in our Manchester office. You will combine strong technical payroll knowledge with hands‑on team leadership, ensuring accurate, secure and timely payroll delivery while developing our Payroll Seniors and Administrators.

Key responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of payroll clients, delivering accurate payrolls on time and overseeing quality checks.
• Build and maintain trusted relationships with clients, providing clear advice and handling escalated queries.
• Provide day‑to‑day guidance, coaching and workload allocation for Payroll Seniors and Administrators.
• Monitor team capacity, ensure appropriate cover during absences and collaborate with other Assistant Managers on resource planning.
• Oversee new client onboarding, PAYE scheme set‑up and data transfers to ensure smooth transitions.
• Bill payroll fees accurately, monitor recoveries and contribute to a commercially focused service.
• Identify and implement process improvements, championing effective use of payroll systems and tools.

Required profile

• 4–5 years overall payroll experience, including at least 2 years in a payroll bureau environment.
• Proven ability to manage a client portfolio, meet strict deadlines and deliver excellent service.
• Experience coaching or supervising staff and delegating tasks effectively.
• Strong problem‑solving skills with confidence to handle complex payroll queries.
• Excellent organisational and prioritisation abilities in a fast‑paced environment.

Required skills

• In‑depth knowledge of auto‑enrolment pensions, BACS, PAYE and HMRC requirements.
• Proficiency with payroll software and systems, including new client set‑up and data transfers.
• Commercial mindset with understanding of billing, recoveries and resource allocation.
• CIPP qualification (advantageous but not essential).

What we offer

• Career development opportunities, learning programmes and coaching.
• Competitive benefits such as private medical cover, pension matching and enhanced parental leave.
• Hybrid working model with 1–2 days remote per week and occasional travel to other offices.
• Inclusive culture recognised as a Best Place to Work and a Certified B Corp™.