Payroll Manager (12‑month Fixed‑Term)

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Payroll Manager to lead our UK payroll function on a 12‑month fixed‑term basis. Reporting into Finance, you will own the end‑to‑end payroll process, ensure compliance with legislation and support a small payroll team in a hybrid working environment.

Key responsibilities

• Deliver accurate and timely monthly UK payroll across multiple payrolls.
• Maintain compliance with HMRC, PAYE, National Insurance, pensions and statutory payments.
• Lead payroll reconciliations, controls, audit activities and year‑end processes.
• Develop and improve payroll processes, procedures and documentation.
• Manage relationships with payroll providers and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with HR and Finance to keep payroll data current.
• Respond to employee payroll queries professionally.
• Produce payroll reporting and analysis for business decisions.
• Coach, mentor and develop a small payroll team.

Required profile

• Proven experience managing end‑to‑end UK payroll.
• Strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation and compliance.
• Previous experience leading or supervising a payroll team.
• Experience with payroll reconciliations, controls and process improvement.
• Outstanding attention to detail and organisational skills.
• Excellent communication and relationship‑building abilities.
• A recognised payroll qualification or equivalent practical experience.

Required skills

• Advanced Excel.
• Experience with payroll systems.

What we offer

• Salary up to £45,000 per annum.
• 12‑month fixed‑term contract (maternity cover).
• Hybrid working – 2‑3 days per week in the Bristol office.
• Competitive benefits package.
• Opportunity to join a collaborative, values‑driven organisation.