Director – Payroll Operate Services

Overview

Senior Payroll Director to lead UK payroll operations in a dynamic, international organisation. You will shape the payroll offering across a diverse client portfolio, partnering with cross-functional teams and alliance partners. You’ll drive process improvement, data integrity, and regulatory compliance while delivering high-quality solutions. This role combines strategic client liaison, operational leadership, and growth opportunities to expand the UK payroll footprint. You will thrive in a culture of innovation where your leadership fuels scalable, client-focused outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Lead UK payroll operations and technology initiatives to ensure efficient delivery and continuous improvement
• Serve as primary contact for senior stakeholders, aligning with client goals
• Manage alliance partner relationships in the UK to support service delivery and growth
• Oversee end-to-end payroll processing with strong controls, KPI/SLA compliance
• Identify and implement process improvements, automation, and risk mitigation
• Oversee data validation, reconciliation, and reporting for accurate payroll data
• Manage client-specific payroll operations, cost tracking, and vendor turnaround times
• Ensure compliance with UK legislation and regulatory requirements, supporting year-end reporting and disclosures
• Utilize data analytics to derive insights for mobility programs and client decision-making
• Mentor and develop junior and mid-level team members
• Collaborate with senior leadership on business development opportunities to grow UK payroll offering

Key requirements

• Proven senior-level experience in UK payroll, ideally in a consultancy or professional services
• Strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation, PAYE, pensions and payroll compliance
• Experience leading payroll operations and delivering high-quality solutions
• Strong commercial awareness and ability to build and manage senior client relationships
• Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, data analytics, and project management tools

• leadership
• stakeholder management
• communication
• Microsoft Office
• Google Workspace
• data analytics

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