Payroll Manager

You’ll join AQA as a Payroll Manager and make a real impact. Payroll is at the heart of our finance operations, and in this role, you’ll lead a skilled team, ensure compliance with UK legislation, and drive accuracy and efficiency across all payroll processes. You’ll have the autonomy to innovate, streamline systems and processes, and introduce best practices that shape the future of our payroll operations.
** Purpose of the role
** You’ll play a critical role in ensuring AQA meets all statutory and regulatory payroll requirements across a highly complex payroll environment. With responsibility for
** 1,400 monthly salaried staff and an associate workforce of 40,000**, you’ll safeguard compliance, accuracy, and efficiency while driving strategic improvements and system enhancements.

You’ll also oversee payroll governance, year-end processes, and KPI reporting, acting as the subject matter expert on all HMRC-related matters. By collaborating with HR, Finance, and Enterprise Technology teams, you’ll influence decisions and lead projects that shape the future of payroll operations.
** In this role, you’ll be responsible for:
*** Leading and developing a team of 4 Payroll Administrators (soon to be
5)
* Managing payroll for salaried staff, weekly temps, and Associates
* Driving system improvements (iTrent now, Workday in future) and process optimisation
* Overseeing payroll governance, year-end processes, and KPI reporting to ensure accuracy and compliance
* Acting as the subject matter expert on all HMRC-related matters, advising stakeholders on policy and procedural changes
* Collaborating with HR, Finance, and Enterprise Technology teams to deliver system enhancements and lead cross-department projects
** You’ll thrive in this role if you have:
*** A recognised payroll qualification (CIPP or equivalent). If you don’t currently hold this and are qualified by experience, we will support you to achieve this in-house.
* Proven leadership experience in high-volume payroll environments
* Expertise in seasonal payroll and complex structures
* Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
* Experience with payroll systems such as iTrent and Workday
*
* What’s in it for you:

*** Autonomy to innovate and influence payroll strategy
* Exposure to strategic projects and acquisitions
* Opportunities to lead system transformation
* A supportive, collaborative team environment
* Career growth within a respected organisation –
** once you commit to us, we commit back
**** You will also benefit from:
*** Flexible working, a 35-hour week, and 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays and Christmas closure)
* A generous pension scheme with up to 11.5% employer contributions
* Private medical insurance, health cash plan, EV leasing, volunteering days, and modern offices with gym
** Diversity and Inclusion statement
** At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyone—regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background—is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes, and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity.

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.
** Application process
** To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter by
** Wednesday 21 January**. As part of your application, you’ll also complete a short questionnaire to help us understand your experience and approach. Interviews will include two stages:
* ** Stage 1:
** Week commencing 9 February (via Teams)
* ** Stage 2:
** Week commencing 26 February (face-to-face in Manchester with a work sample task)
Onboarding will follow shortly after offer acceptance.
** Reference code:** #PRO
22
** Recruitment Agencies
** We have a preferred supplier list (PSL) in place.

Unsolicited CVs will be treated as a gift. We will not be subject to or liable under your terms and conditions for agency fees.# # #
** Full

Job Description
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