Senior Payroll Officer

About the role

This senior position gives you full ownership of an in‑house payroll function for an established organisation with roughly 500 employees. You will work autonomously, driving improvements to payroll processes and controls while enjoying hybrid working flexibility.

Key responsibilities

• Process the full UK monthly payroll from start to finish, including starters, leavers, pay changes, deductions and statutory payments.
• Validate HR data, investigate discrepancies and produce payslips, reports and third‑party payment schedules.
• Submit PAYE, National Insurance and HMRC returns and manage year‑end payroll activities and statutory filings.
• Administer pension auto‑enrolment, re‑enrolment and contributions.
• Perform monthly reconciliations, maintain payroll controls and keep audit‑ready records.
• Handle confidential employee and manager queries and support internal and external audits.
• Identify and implement process and reporting improvements.

Required profile

• Extensive end‑to‑end UK payroll experience with strong knowledge of PAYE, NI, statutory payments and pension legislation.
• Ability to work independently, meet strict deadlines and resolve payroll issues proactively.
• Comfortable managing a standalone payroll function and driving continuous improvement.

Required skills

• Advanced Excel proficiency.
• Experience with payroll software (specific system not required).

What we offer

• Competitive salary of £35,000 per year.
• Excellent holiday entitlement plus bank holidays.
• Hybrid working model with free parking for onsite days.
• Supportive environment, enhanced pension scheme and a range of additional benefits upon permanent appointment.