Payroll and Benefits Manager (Maternity Cover)

Are you an experienced Payroll professional with a passion for accuracy, compliance, and continuous improvement?

We’re looking for a Payroll and Benefits Manager to lead the delivery of a high-quality payroll service across our diverse organisation to cover a period of maternity leave for 12 months.

As Payroll and Benefits Manager, you will take full ownership of the payroll function, ensuring all employees are paid accurately and on time, while adhering to company policies, contractual obligations, and statutory requirements.

Working closely with the People & Development team and reporting to the People & Development Director, you’ll play a key role in maintaining operational excellence, enhancing systems, and supporting colleagues across the business. 

• Managing the end-to-end payroll function and driving continuous improvement
• Processing accurate payroll data input, validation, and approvals
• Processing monthly payroll runs, including reconciliation and reporting
• Managing Time & Attendance submissions, overtime rules, and pay rates
• Handling payroll-related queries and providing excellent service to employees
• Administering statutory payments such as maternity/paternity pay
• Maintaining compliance with HMRC, PAYE, National Minimum Wage, and Auto Enrolment legislation
• Liaising with HMRC, The Pensions Regulator, DWP and other stakeholders
• Managing employee benefits, including Benefit in Kind reconciliation
• Producing ad-hoc reports and insights for stakeholders

• CIPP qualified (or equivalent)
• Strong knowledge of payroll legislation and best practice
• Proven experience managing complex payroll operations
• Experience working with HMRC processes and requirements
• Familiarity with payroll systems (MHR iTrent or Ubeya desirable)

Skills & Attributes

• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong organisational and prioritisation skills
• Confident decision-maker with a proactive mindset
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Positive, approachable, and solutions-focused
• A genuine passion for payroll and continuous improvement