Head of Payroll

Appniasoft; Cardiff; On-site; GBP 60,000 - GBP 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent payroll services provider in the UK is seeking a Head of Payroll to lead and oversee payroll operations across multiple divisions. The successful candidate will ensure timely and compliant payroll delivery while managing a team and driving the implementation of a new HR and payroll system in 2026. Ideal individuals will have strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation and proven experience in leading payroll operations within high-volume environments. A focus on stakeholder engagement and continuous improvement is essential.

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading payroll operations across high volume and multi-company environments.
• Strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation, HMRC requirements, pensions, and benefits.
• Experience in major payroll projects such as systems migration and payroll harmonisation.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a unified payroll strategy across divisions.
• Oversee end-to-end payroll processing and ensure compliance with statutory requirements.
• Lead payroll input into the HR & payroll system implementation project.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Analytical skills

Problem-solving abilities

Resilience

Job description

The Head of Payroll will lead and oversee payroll operations across all divisions. This role ensures accurate, timely, and compliant payroll delivery, harmonises payroll processes and dates across divisions, and prepares the organisation for the successful implementation of a new HR and payroll system launching in 2026.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement a unified payroll strategy across divisions.
• Act as the payroll lead for the HR & payroll system transformation project (go‑live 2026).
• Provide expert advice on payroll risks, compliance, and optimisation.

Operational Management

• Oversee end‑to‑end payroll processing for multiple companies with varying payroll dates – with plan to harmonise.
• Ensure payroll compliance with UK employment law, HMRC regulations, pensions auto‑enrolment, and other relevant statutory requirements.
• Oversee pensions – including reporting, contributions, and enrolment requirements.
• Manage and mentor the payroll team, ensuring workload balance and professional development.
• Implement robust controls and audit processes to improve accuracy and prevent errors.
• Liaise with Finance in the completion of payroll journals, reconciliations, and delivery of other payroll management information.

Systems & Transformation

• Lead payroll input into the HR & payroll system implementation project (2026), including requirements gathering, testing, and transition planning.
• Drive process automation and digitalisation to reduce manual intervention.
• Ensure payroll data integrity and security during system migration.
• Implement plan to harmonise payroll cycles, dates, and processes to reduce complexity and improve efficiency.
• Lead the project to document and improve payroll processes.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Act as the primary payroll contact for divisional leaders, HR and Finance.
• Communicate payroll changes clearly to staff, ensuring transparency and trust.
• Build relationships with external providers (HMRC, pension administrators, benefits providers).
• Improve customer service standards for the payroll function.

Key Deliverables

• Harmonised payroll calendar across divisions by agreed milestone date.
• Successful transition to new HR/payroll system in 2026 with minimal disruption.
• 100% compliance with statutory obligations.
• Improve payroll accuracy and employee satisfaction scores.
• Development of the Payroll team.

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience leading payroll operations across high volume and multi‑company environments.
• Strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation, HMRC requirements, pensions, and benefits.
• Experience in major payroll projects (e.g., payroll harmonisation, systems migration, post M&A integration, etc.).
• Track record of managing and developing small payroll teams.
• Familiarity with HRIS/payroll system implementation projects (desirable: experience with large‑scale system rollouts).
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.

Behaviours & Competencies

• Leadership: Inspires confidence, sets clear direction, and develops team capability.
• Resilience: Manages multiple priorities and deadlines calmly.
• Integrity: Ensures compliance and accuracy, builds trust with employees and stakeholders.
• Change Orientation: Embraces transformation, drives continuous improvement.
• Collaboration: Works effectively across divisions and functions.