Payroll Team Leader

About the role

This permanent position offers an experienced payroll professional the chance to lead a high‑volume payroll service for a London local authority. Working hybrid, you will report to the Payroll Manager and supervise a team of four Payroll & Pension Officers, ensuring accurate and compliant payroll delivery for council and school staff.

Key responsibilities

• Lead, coach and develop the Payroll Team, managing workload and performance.
• Process payroll accurately and on time in line with legislation, council policies and service standards.
• Provide expert advice on PAYE, Tax, National Insurance, pensions, statutory payments, RTI and auto‑enrolment.
• Maintain compliance with LGPS, Teachers' Pensions, NHS Pension Scheme and HMRC requirements.
• Produce KPI reports, reconciliations, audit returns and management information.
• Support service improvement, digitisation and transformation initiatives.
• Deputise for the Payroll Manager when required and oversee quality assurance.

Required profile

• Extensive payroll experience with deep knowledge of PAYE, tax, NI and pension schemes.
• Proven experience leading and developing payroll teams, preferably in local government or public sector.
• Strong stakeholder management and ability to deliver payroll services under tight deadlines.
• Understanding of local government pay conditions and pension regulations.

Required skills

• PAYE administration
• Tax calculation
• National Insurance handling
• Pension scheme administration (LGPS, TPS, NHS Pension Scheme)
• Auto Enrolment compliance
• Real‑Time Information (RTI) reporting
• Payroll legislation knowledge
• Payroll system operation

What we offer

• Competitive salary range £54,000‑£58,000 per annum
• Hybrid working model
• Opportunities for professional development and progression