3 months contract with a Local Authority Job Summary: • The postholder will lead the Payroll Team to ensure the accurate and timely delivery of payroll services in line with current legislation and terms and conditions of employment. • The role requires strategic oversight of the payroll function and a commitment to continuous improvement, service modernisation, and operational efficiency. • This is a pivotal role within the wider HR leadership team and will contribute to the development and implementation of cross-functional initiatives with payroll implications. Key Duties/Accountabilities (Sample): • Provide strong leadership and line management for the payroll function. • Ensure accurate and timely processing of payroll in line with statutory requirements and internal policies. • Act as the subject matter expert for complex payroll matters such as multiple employments, family leave, sickness absence, pensions, and payments on termination. • Collaborate with HR recruitment teams to ensure smooth onboarding and accurate payroll setup for new starters. • Take the lead in implementing new payroll systems or procedures and improving existing processes. • Manage the relationship and integrations between payroll and HR, pension, and finance systems. • Develop and oversee pension auto-enrolment processes and ensure full compliance with statutory obligations. • Lead on internal and external payroll audits and always ensure readiness for scrutiny. • Produce routine and ad hoc payroll reports for internal and external stakeholders, including HR and finance. • Participate in HR leadership discussions and act as a key contributor to cross-functional HR projects where payroll expertise is required. • Supervise the preparation of payroll data and ensure compliance with payroll timetables and BACS processing deadlines. • Carry out year-end payroll activities and apply agreed pay awards accurately. • Support the team with day-to-day activities where required and ensure all SLAs and quality standards are met. • Handle complex and escalated payroll issues and complaints with professionalism and sensitivity. • Provide advice and information to external bodies such as the DWP and the Crown Prosecution Service and attend court proceedings as necessary. • Respond to Freedom of Information (FOI) requests and data queries related to payroll. Skills/Experience: • Proven experience in managing or supervising a payroll team. • Strong knowledge of PAYE, NI, and statutory deductions legislation. • Familiarity with terms and conditions of employment and their application to payroll. • Proficient in payroll systems and Microsoft Office applications. • Ability to manage high volumes of payroll data with accuracy and efficiency. • Skilled in resolving complex payroll queries and providing sound guidance to colleagues. • Excellent organisational and time management skills with the ability to meet tight deadlines. • Strong interpersonal and communication skills to engage effectively with staff, managers, and external bodies. • A high level of integrity and confidentiality in handling sensitive payroll data. • Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. Additional Information: • Hybrid, with regular attendance at your contracted base. • Holds a professional payroll qualification.