Role: Payroll Specialist (6 Month Contract)
Department: Human Resources / Payroll
Reports To: Payroll Manager
Job Purpose
To deliver an accurate, timely and compliant payroll service using the MHR iTrent HR and Payroll system. The ideal candidate will ensure employees are paid correctly, maintain payroll records, provide advice to managers and employees, and ensure compliance with payroll legislation and organisational policies.
Key Responsibilities
- Process end-to-end monthly payroll using MHR iTrent.
- Maintain accurate payroll records, including new starters, leavers, contractual changes, overtime, allowances, statutory payments and deductions.
- Ensure compliance with HMRC legislation, pension regulations, and organisational policies.
- Validate payroll data, complete payroll reconciliations, and support payroll sign-off.
- Respond to payroll queries from employees, managers and internal stakeholders, resolving issues promptly and professionally.
- Produce payroll reports and support internal and external audit requirements.
- Support payroll system testing, upgrades and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Maintain confidentiality and comply with data protection requirements.
Person Specification
Essential
- Experience processing payroll in a medium or large organisation.
- Experience using MHR iTrent Payroll.
- Good understanding of UK payroll legislation, PAYE, National Insurance and statutory payments.
- Strong attention to detail and numerical skills.
- Good communication and customer service skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
- Ability to manage competing priorities and meet payroll deadlines.
Desirable
- Experience in a public sector payroll environment.
- Payroll qualification (e.g. CIPP) or equivalent experience.
- Knowledge of public sector pension schemes.
Key Competencies
- Accuracy and attention to detail
- Customer focus
- Teamwork
- Problem solving
- Planning and organisation
- Accountability and integrity
- Commitment to continuous improvement