Payroll Manager

Fixed Term Payroll Manager job until January 2027

Salary: £40,000 - £50,000 DOE Location: Mainly Remote (with occasional travel to Leeds circa once per week) Contract Type: Fixed-Term (until January 2027) Employment Type: Full-Time 37.5 hours per week
A respected organisation in the not-for-profit sector is seeking a proactive and experienced Payroll Manager to lead its payroll function through a period of transformation. This is a hands-on role offering strategic influence, operational ownership, and the opportunity to help shape internal policies and systems.
The RoleYou'll oversee the accurate and timely processing of a single monthly payroll for over 1,800 employees, including seasonal and casual staff, with a net spend exceeding £5 million. Managing three direct reports, you'll take full ownership of the transition from outsourced services to an in-house model, including the implementation of Dayforce as the new payroll system.
In addition to operational leadership, you'll play a key role in reviewing and rewriting payroll-related policies and procedures to ensure compliance, clarity, and alignment with best practice.
Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage the payroll team, balancing priorities and resourcesOversee the implementation of Dayforce payroll systemEnsure accurate processing of monthly payroll and benefits deductionsManage outsourced provider SLAs and in-sourcing operationsReconcile payroll, pensions, and benefits transactionsPrepare year-end returns including P11Ds, P60s, and EOY accountsAdminister DB and DC pension schemes, including auto-enrolmentProvide expert advice on payroll legislation, tax, and NI mattersSupport the review and rewriting of payroll-related policies and proceduresCoach and develop team members to deliver excellent serviceLiaise with HR, insurers, HMRC, and other external stakeholdersPayroll for 1,800+ employees (plus seasonal/casual workforceManaging 3 direct reports
What We're Looking For
CIPP membership or equivalent experienceExperience with payroll system implementation (Dayforce preferred)Strong knowledge of payroll legislation and pension schemesHigh attention to detail and accuracyAdvanced Excel and payroll systems skills (SAP and Dayforce desirable)Proven ability to lead in a changing environmentExperience in policy development or reviewExcellent communication across finance and non-finance teams

What you need to do now

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