Head of Payroll

Overview

In this Head of Payroll role, you will own the end-to-end payroll for ~200 staff and lead the shift from outsourced to in-house payroll. You’ll shape the payroll strategy, implement a new system, and build robust governance to support growth. You’ll work closely with Finance and HR to ensure compliant, accurate, timely payroll and drive continuous improvement. This is a high-visibility, strategic position with hands-on delivery and senior stakeholder influence in a growing consumer business.

Pay / Benefits

• Complimentary services
• Generous employee discount on products
• Company pension scheme
• 22 days’ annual leave (25 with service) + bank holidays
• Flexible working hours (core 10:00–16:00)
• Opportunity to build and lead an in-house payroll function

Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end payroll delivery for ~200 employees (permanent, self-employed, commissions, variable pay, TRONC)
• Lead transition from outsourced to in-house payroll
• Evaluate, select and implement a new payroll system with Finance Director
• Design robust payroll processes, controls and governance
• Act as payroll subject matter expert on legislation, compliance and best practice
• Collaborate with Finance, HR and operations to ensure seamless payroll integration
• Influence senior stakeholders and drive continuous improvement
• Identify automation and efficiency opportunities through technology

Key requirements

• Significant end-to-end payroll experience at Manager/Head level
• Experience leading or contributing to bringing payroll in-house or implementing a payroll system
• Strong understanding of payroll legislation, governance, controls and compliance
• Experience in multi-site environments (retail/hospitality/leisure/consumer-facing)
• Experience handling commissions, variable pay and TRONC
• Excellent stakeholder management with ability to influence senior leadership
• Strategic mindset with willingness to stay hands-on as needed
• Track record of improving payroll processes and operational efficiency
• Strong leadership to shape payroll function as the business grows

• stakeholder management
• influencing senior leadership
• problem-solving
• payroll system implementation
• regulatory compliance (HMRC)
• payroll governance and controls

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