Head of Payroll

Head of Payroll - Uxbridge - £55,000 / £60,000 - Hybrid working About the Client

Wade Macdonald are working with a large and well-established organisation within the Education sector. With multiple sites and a sizeable workforce, they are committed to maintaining high standards of service delivery and operational excellence. They cultivate a supportive atmosphere where mentorship and professional development are central to their mission.

This is a key role within the finance function, reporting to the Finance Director and overseeing all aspects of payroll for a workforce of over 1,300 employees. You will be the primary contact for managing the outsourced payroll bureau, ensuring compliance with HMRC and pension regulations, and producing essential payroll data for internal and external stakeholders. The role also involves working closely with HR and Finance to ensure accuracy and efficiency across payroll operations.

• Managing and overseeing the outsourced payroll service to ensure accurate and timely payments.
• Acting as the primary contact for internal payroll matters and external bodies, including HMRC and pension providers.
• Supervising and appraising a small payroll team.
• Reviewing payroll data, deductions, and amendments in line with policy and authorising payments.
• Leading on year-end processes including pension returns, P60s, and benefit reporting.
• Supporting system testing and upgrades, particularly around statutory pay and annual uplifts.
• Providing payroll reporting and data analysis for audit, budgeting, and forecasting purposes.
• Ensuring deadlines are met for payments to third parties and responding to data requests.
• Participating in inductions, offering payroll and pension guidance to new staff.

You will have at least five years’ experience in payroll, ideally within education, the public sector, or a similarly complex environment. A deep understanding of defined benefit pension schemes, strong IT and Excel skills, and up-to-date knowledge of UK payroll legislation are essential. You’ll need excellent communication skills, a meticulous approach, and the ability to manage competing deadlines with accuracy.

37 days annual leave (plus bank holidays and Christmas closure), access to a local government pension scheme, and opportunities for salary progression following annual appraisals. You'll also have access to wellbeing support, including 1:1 therapy, an employee assistance programme, and free gym use. Professional development is supported.