We are seeking a highly experienced Payroll Systems Officer to support our project team on the implementation of our new People System. This role will be office based, 37 hours per week Monday - Friday with flexibility around start and finish times. Due to the tight timescales of the project there may be a need for some evening and weekend work. The project is currently in a parallel runs phase, so the successful candidate will need strong analytical skills and attention to detail to identify anomalies and themes within the data from both the new system and the legacy system. An inquisitive mindset and the ability to work under pressure are essential to the role. The post holder will be solely focusing on work around implementation of the new system. Job content: Leadership and Supervision: Lead and manage the payroll team, providing guidance, support, and training to ensure high performance and professional development. Payroll Processing: Oversee the accurate and timely processing of payroll, including salary calculations, deductions, third party reconciliations. Pensions Management: Oversee pension-related processes, ensuring compliance and accuracy in all pension transactions and reporting. System Implementation: Support the implementation of new people systems or manage I-Trent, ensuring seamless integration and data accuracy. Compliance: Ensure payroll practices comply with all relevant laws and regulations (including pay gaps) and handle any discrepancies or issues that arise. Process Improvement: Continuously seek ways to improve payroll processes for greater efficiency and accuracy. Issue Resolution: Address and resolve any payroll-related queries or issues that are escalated by team members. Reporting: Prepare and analyse payroll reports, providing insights on employee pay, bonuses, and other payroll metrics. Data Management: Ensure the integrity and accuracy of payroll data, collaborating with People, Data and Project teams to streamline data workflows and provide data assurance. The candidates must have: Proven experience as a Payroll Team Leader or in a similar role. Strong knowledge of payroll processes, laws, statutory payments and regulations. Experience with pensions management, ideally within a defined benefit environment. Experience with new people system implementation. An understanding of Employment legislation and its impact on pay. Relevant academic/ professional qualification Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and payroll/HR software. Excellent leadership and team management skills. Strong analytical and problem- solving abilities. Attention to detail and a high level of accuracy. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. Pay rate is negotiable depending on experience.