Payroll & Reward Subject Matter Expert

About the role

We are looking for an experienced Payroll & Reward professional to join our Payroll & Reward team in York as a Payroll & Reward SME. Acting as the Subject Matter Expert within HR Operations, you will play a key role in delivering accurate, compliant and customer‑focused payroll and reward services across the UK & Ireland.

Key responsibilities

• Act as the Payroll & Reward SME, providing expert advice and support on complex queries.
• Deliver accurate and compliant payroll, reward and benefits processes across the UK & Ireland.
• Partner with Tax, Legal, Pensions and external providers to ensure effective end‑to‑end processes.
• Manage relationships with third‑party vendors, including DXC, to deliver a seamless customer experience.
• Monitor legislative and market developments and support implementation of required changes.
• Lead and support continuous improvement and change initiatives across Payroll & Reward.
• Support HR Operations projects and represent Payroll & Reward within wider business initiatives.
• Share knowledge and provide support to colleagues across the team.

Required profile

• Payroll experience within a medium to large, fast‑paced organisation.
• Strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation and compliance requirements.
• Experience managing complex payroll and reward queries.
• Excellent customer service, communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify solutions.
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail and ability to manage competing priorities.
• Ability to handle confidential information appropriately.
• Proactive approach to continuous improvement and change initiatives.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and to tight deadlines.
• Experience supporting and developing colleagues through knowledge sharing and training.

What we offer

• Salary up to £40,000 depending on experience.
• Potential discretionary annual bonus.
• Generous pension scheme.
• 12 flexible days on top of 25‑day holiday entitlement.
• 2 paid volunteering days.
• Focus on personal development and growth.
• Hybrid working with a minimum of 2 days a week in the office.
• 12‑month fixed‑term contract with flexibility for individual working needs.