Payroll Manager

About the role

We are looking for an experienced Payroll professional to lead the payroll and pensions function of a people‑centred public sector organisation. This senior role combines strategic influence with hands‑on management, reporting directly to the Director of People and working closely with the CEO and CFO.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and develop the in‑house payroll and pensions service, ensuring accuracy, compliance and timeliness.
• Provide expert advice on payroll, pensions and contractual matters to colleagues and senior leaders.
• Oversee monthly payroll processing for a large, complex workforce, including statutory returns and year‑end activities.
• Line‑manage and develop the payroll team, fostering a supportive, high‑performing environment.
• Collaborate with HR and Finance to improve systems, reporting and processes.
• Monitor legislative changes and ensure organisational compliance.

Required profile

• Significant payroll and pensions experience in a large or complex organisation, preferably public sector or education.
• Relevant qualification such as CIPP or equivalent, or progress towards it.
• Strong knowledge of payroll legislation, PAYE, HMRC and public sector pension schemes (TPS, LGPS).
• Proven ability to manage deadlines, detail and competing priorities.

Required skills

• EduPay (or similar payroll system) usage and development.
• PAYE processing.
• HMRC compliance.
• TPS pension scheme knowledge.
• LGPS pension scheme knowledge.