Payroll Lead

About the role

We are partnering with a well‑established, multi‑site consumer business to recruit their first in‑house Payroll Lead. Reporting to the Finance Director with a dotted line to the Head of HR, you will own the payroll function, shape processes, advise on best practice and help implement a new payroll system.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the end‑to‑end payroll process for approximately 200 employees.
• Process payroll for permanent staff and self‑employed workers.
• Accurately calculate commissions, variable pay and TRONC payments.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all payroll‑related queries.
• Work with the Finance Director to evaluate, implement and embed a new payroll system.
• Advise senior stakeholders on payroll best practice, controls and process improvements.
• Collaborate with Finance, HR and operational teams to ensure timely, accurate payroll runs.
• Maintain payroll records and ensure compliance with current legislation.
• Identify and drive continuous improvements in payroll processes and efficiencies.

Required profile

• Proven end‑to‑end payroll experience.
• Experience with commission, variable pay and/or TRONC arrangements.
• Background in a multi‑site environment, preferably hospitality, retail, leisure or similar.
• Strong stakeholder management and confidence engaging senior leadership.
• Excellent organisational skills, attention to detail and proactive problem‑solving.
• Experience supporting or leading a payroll system implementation (highly advantageous).
• Ability to provide guidance on payroll best practice and process improvement.

Required skills

What we offer

• Complimentary services and generous employee discount on products.
• Company pension scheme.
• 22 days annual leave (rising to 25 days with service) plus bank holidays.
• Flexible working hours with a core onsite schedule.