Payroll Officer

Payroll Officer (Interim)

Are you an experienced Payroll Officer looking to make a significant impact within a dynamic and supportive environment?

This role offers the chance to be at the heart of an organisation, supporting them through a busy period, ensuring the smooth and accurate delivery of payroll and pensions services. If you thrive on precision, compliance, and delivering high-quality service, this position is tailored for you.

We are looking for an experienced Payroll Officer on a temporary basis for a period of 12 week - this is subject to an extension and quite possibly an opportunity for a longer term position.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Payroll Processing and Administration:
- Manage the end-to-end monthly payroll process, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- Process starters, leavers, contractual changes, and various pay variations.
- Ensure accurate tax, National Insurance, and pension deductions.
- Act as the primary contact for payroll queries, resolving issues promptly.
- Maintain payroll records and personnel files in line with GDPR.

Pensions and Statutory Returns:
- Maintain accurate pension records (TPS and LGPS)
- Prepare and submit monthly and annual pension returns.
- Complete statutory reporting accurately and on time.
- Liaise with pension providers, HMRC, and external bodies.

Payroll Reporting and Data Management:
- Produce accurate payroll reports for senior leaders and the People Team.
- Investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies.
- Ensure payroll data aligns with staffing structures and pay policies.

Payroll Establishment and Workforce Data:
- Maintain the Trust’s staffing establishment.
- Provide regular establishment and payroll reports.
- Support staffing administration and recruitment processes.

People Systems, Processes, and Projects:
- Support the delivery of key activities and projects aligned to the Trust’s People Strategy.
- Contribute to the implementation and development of HR and payroll systems.
- Work collaboratively to improve processes and data quality.

Skills and Experience
- Significant practical experience in payroll administration.
- Strong technical payroll knowledge, including taxation and statutory requirements.
- Experience with end-to-end payroll administration and statutory returns.
- Experience working with pensions (TPS and/or LGPS would be beneficial).
- Strong Excel and Microsoft Office skills.
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to communicate effectively with a range of stakeholders.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Desirable:
- Experience in an education or public sector environment.
- Experience with HR/payroll systems and system implementations or upgrades