Payroll Assistant – Axminster / Bideford / Exeter / Plymouth / Weston‑Super‑Mare
Westcotts – a Top 50 accountancy practice and Real Living Wage Employer, with over 290 team members across 16 offices in Devon and Somerset. We’re looking for an experienced Payroll Assistant to join on a permanent basis, with full‑time and part‑time hours available, based from our offices listed above.
Why Westcotts?
At Westcotts, we believe our people are our greatest asset. When you join, you’ll become part of a welcoming and supportive firm where your contribution is genuinely valued.
You’ll Benefit From
* A friendly and collaborative working environment
* Flexible full‑time or part‑time working options
* The opportunity to work with a varied and interesting client portfolio
* A genuine focus on wellbeing and work/life balance
* Ongoing learning and development opportunities within a growing and respected firm
Main Duties
Responsibilities
* Processing payrolls from start to finish, ensuring all deadlines are met accurately and efficiently
* Collecting, compiling, and maintaining payroll data using payroll software and internal systems
* Calculating payroll deductions including PAYE, National Insurance, pensions, student loans, and other statutory deductions
* Processing new starters, leavers, salary changes, holiday calculations, and employee record updates
* Preparing payroll reports and supporting compliance with HMRC regulations and auto‑enrolment pension requirements
* Investigating and resolving payroll discrepancies and responding to payroll‑related queries from clients and employees
* Maintaining accurate payroll records and supporting the smooth running of payroll administration processes
* Providing general administrative support to the wider office and team when required
Attributes, Skills, Experience And Qualifications
* Previous experience processing payroll from start to finish
* CIPP qualification (preferred but not essential), or relevant payroll experience
* Good working knowledge of payroll and accounting software including Brain Payroll, BrightPay, Xero, QuickBooks, and Sage would be advantageous
* Experience working within a practice environment (preferred but not essential)
* Strong analytical, numerical, and problem‑solving skills
* A positive, friendly, and professional approach
* The ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines accurately
* Excellent organisational skills and strong attention to detail
* Team‑oriented mindset with the ability to work independently and flexibly
* Experience delivering excellent customer service within an office environment
* Strong written and verbal communication skills
* Confidence learning and adapting to new IT systems and software
Terms / Benefits
* Ideally 36.25 hours / 5 days per week however part‑time hours / days can also be considered.
* Flexible and hybrid or office working available.
* Annual salary review.
* 20 days annual leave plus bank holidays increasing to 25 days plus bank holidays after 3 years’ service.
* Death in service 3 x annual salary.
* Access to Westfield Rewards and Health scheme.
* 24‑hour external Employee Assistance Programme helpline.
* Flexible benefits including Buy and Sell holiday, Cycle to Work, Payroll Charity Giving and Private Medical Insurance.
* Introducing clients and staff commission schemes.
* Pension 3% rising to 4% (but matched up to 6%) after 4 years’ service.
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