We are seeking an experienced and detail-driven Payroll & Financial Accounting Officer to support our clients delivery of accurate payroll, pensions administration, and financial accounting processes across the organisation.
Reporting to the Financial Accountant, you will play a key role in ensuring timely and compliant payroll and pensions services, while also contributing to monthly accounting processes, year-end accounts, and the annual external audit. This is an excellent opportunity for a payroll and accounting professional who enjoys working with data, supporting governance, and contributing to a values-led organisation.
Key Responsibilities
Payroll & Pensions
You will support the delivery of a high-quality payroll and pensions service, including:
* Delivering accurate and timely monthly payroll for all staff and Board members
* Preparing and submitting payroll, tax, and pension returns and payments to HMRC and pension providers
* Supporting year-end payroll, tax, and pension reporting
* Assisting with the delivery of payroll services to external clients and partner organisations
* Supporting payroll modelling for annual budgeting and public sector pay policy requirements
* Assisting the Authority in meeting all statutory obligations relating to payroll, tax, and pensions
Financial Accounting & Annual Accounts
You will also support the wider financial accounting function by:
* Assisting with corporate accounting processes, financial accounts preparation, and external audit requirements
* Preparing and maintaining monthly balance sheet reconciliations
* Supporting month-end processes, including prepayments, accruals, and asset capitalisation
* Calculating and submitting project accounting claims to external funders
* Providing documentation and evidence to support external audit fieldwork
* Delivering ad hoc financial analysis and forecasting as required
* Maintaining data required for annual carbon reporting
General Responsibilities
* Contributing to the work of the Corporate Services Directorate and the organisation as a whole
* Supporting data modelling and financial analysis using strong numerical and analytical skills
* Ensuring compliance with financial procedures and internal controls
* Demonstrating flexibility to support evolving organisational priorities
* Embracing organisational values, culture, and health and safety requirements
Person Specification
Essential
* Proven experience as a payroll and accounting professional
* Excellent numerical skills, with substantial experience using Excel to manipulate and analyse financial data
* Strong analytical ability, with experience presenting financial information clearly and accurately
* Demonstrable experience in payroll and pensions administration
* Proven ability to handle confidential information with integrity and discretion
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills
* Competent user of Microsoft Office applications
Desirable
* Experience using Access Payroll and Access Financials accounting packages
* Experience running an organisational payroll, including all associated statutory returns
* Experience administering pension schemes, ideally the Civil Service Pension Scheme
* Knowledge of the Gaelic language