Payroll & Benefits Manager – UK Payroll Lead

About the role

We are seeking a Payroll & Benefits Manager to lead our end‑to‑end UK payroll function. Reporting to the Head of Financial Control, you will manage a team of payroll professionals and ensure accurate, compliant payroll processing for roughly 2,000 employees.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee three payroll cycles (weekly and four‑weekly) and meet all payroll deadlines.
• Maintain compliance with HMRC legislation, salary‑sacrifice schemes, P11Ds and audit requirements.
• Manage the UK & Ireland Concur expenses system and collaborate with the Reward & Benefits team.
• Develop and support the payroll team, providing hands‑on assistance and fostering a high‑performing environment.
• Build strong relationships with HR, Finance, operational stakeholders and external payroll providers.
• Drive payroll‑related projects, process optimisation and continuous improvement initiatives.

Required profile

• Proven experience leading a high‑volume payroll function (1,000+ employees).
• Strong people‑management skills with a track record of mentoring payroll staff.
• In‑depth knowledge of UK payroll legislation, HMRC compliance, pensions and salary‑sacrifice.
• Stable career history and a desire to build a long‑term career within the business.

Required skills

• Advanced Excel (VLOOKUP, Pivot Tables, data analysis).
• Microsoft Query.
• SQL (knowledge advantageous).
• Experience with Concur expense system.

What we offer

• Competitive salary £55,000‑£60,000 per year.
• Hybrid working model (minimum three days in the office).
• Opportunity to lead a strategic payroll function within a growing organisation.