Payroll Manager

Abbey Logistics Group; Warrington; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading logistics provider in the UK is seeking an experienced Payroll Manager to oversee payroll processes for over 600 employees. You will ensure compliance with payroll legislation, lead a small team, and optimize payroll systems. The ideal candidate has a minimum of 5 years’ experience in payroll management and holds a CIPP Level 3 qualification. This is an office-based role in Lowton, offering a chance to contribute to continuous process improvements.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of payroll experience, including team leadership.
• Strong understanding of UK payroll legislation, tax, and pensions.
• Proven experience using and managing ADP payroll systems.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end processing of payrolls for 600+ employees.
• Develop and document payroll procedures and controls.
• Produce payroll-related financial reports and analytics.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a small payroll team.

Skills

Payroll legislation knowledge

Team leadership

ADP payroll systems

Excel skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Continuous improvement mindset

Education

Payroll Qualification – CIPP Level 3

Tools

ADP

Job description

Abbey Logistics are looking for an experienced and detail‑driven Payroll Manager to join our dynamic team. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in managing and improving our payroll processes across a busy, fast‑paced logistics business.

As a leading UK bulk logistics provider, we pride ourselves on our people‑focused culture and commitment to delivering excellence for both our customers and employees. You’ll be responsible for ensuring accurate and timely payroll delivery, maintaining compliance, and supporting the HR and finance teams with payroll reporting and continuous improvement initiatives.

Main Duties:

Payroll Operations

Manage end‑to‑end processing of multiple weekly and monthly payrolls (approx. 600+ employees), ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timeliness. Oversee the integration between HR, timekeeping, and payroll systems (ADP) to ensure smooth data flow.

System Ownership (ADP)

Act as the system owner and key contact for ADP payroll. Maintain and improve system configurations, workflows, and reporting. Identify and implement system enhancements to automate manual tasks and improve efficiency.

Process Improvement & Compliance

Develop and document clear payroll procedures and controls. Monitor changes in legislation and ensure payroll processes remain compliant. Partner with HR and Finance to streamline cross‑departmental processes and reporting.

Reporting & Analytics

Produce payroll‑related financial reports, cost analysis, and headcount data to support business decision‑making. Provide insights on labour costs, overtime trends, and other KPIs.

Lead, mentor, and develop a small payroll team (currently 2). Conduct regular 1:1s, performance reviews, and development planning. Encourage a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous learning.

Stakeholder Management

Build strong working relationships with HR, Finance, and operational managers. Support HR with wage reviews and pay benchmarking exercises. Liaise with external bodies such as HMRC, auditors, and pension providers.

Audit & Year‑End

Oversee payroll year‑end activities, including P11Ds, PSAs, and audits. Ensure accurate statutory submissions and reconciliation of all payroll accounts.

Experience

• Minimum 5 years of payroll experience, including team leadership.
• Strong understanding of UK payroll legislation, tax, and pensions.
• Proven experience using and managing ADP payroll systems (desirable) (or similar).
• Strong Excel and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to explain payroll matters to non‑payroll stakeholders.
• Continuous improvement mindset – seeks out and drives efficiencies.

Qualifications

• Payroll Qualification – CIPP Level 3 (essential)

The Role

• Monday – Friday
• Office based – Lowton