Payroll Manager- 15-Month Fixed Term Contract

Salary: £45,000 excellent benefits

Location: Salford
Hybrid Working (3 days weekly office based)

We're looking for an experienced Payroll Manager to join a fantastic business, on a 15-month fixed term contract, covering a period of maternity leave.

Reporting to the Head of Group Finance, you'll take ownership of the payroll function, ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time, while maintaining compliance with all payroll legislation and statutory requirements. You'll also play a key role in developing the payroll processes, leading change initiatives and supporting the development of the Payroll team.

This is an excellent opportunity for a payroll professional who enjoys balancing operational excellence with people leadership in a fast-paced and evolving environment.

Responsibilities include:

• Lead the end-to-end payroll process, ensuring accurate and timely payroll delivery.
• Ensure compliance with all payroll legislation, HMRC requirements and pension regulations.
• Manage payroll reconciliations, reporting and statutory payments, including PAYE, NI and pensions.
• Prepare and oversee year-end payroll activities, including P60s, P11Ds and PSA requirements.
• Act as the escalation point for complex payroll queries and issues.
• Lead payroll improvement projects, including system enhancements, process optimisation and legislative changes.
• Manage overseas and casual payroll arrangements.
• Develop, coach and support the Payroll Supervisor, fostering a high-performing team culture.
• Maintain robust payroll controls, documentation and business continuity plans.
• Build effective relationships with internal stakeholders, auditors, pension providers and third-party payroll partners.

Key skills & attributes:

• Ideally part or fully qualified CIPP Payroll Professional status
• Significant experience managing payroll operations and payroll teams
• Strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation, HMRC requirements and pension administration
• Proven leadership, coaching and stakeholder management skills
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Advanced Excel and reporting skills
• A continuous improvement mindset with experience driving process enhancements and change initiatives

Please send a copy of your CV for consideration.