Job Description
Senior Payroll Analyst (12-Month Fixed Term Contract)
Contract: Fixed Term - Maternity CoverLocation: Midlands-Based with Hybrid Working
Are you an experienced Payroll Analyst looking for a rewarding fixed-term opportunity? We're partnering with a large national organisation seeking a confident and knowledgeable Senior Payroll Analyst to join their central payroll function for a 12-month contract.
This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, can manage multiple payrolls projects, and enjoys being a key technical reference point within a payroll team.
Key Responsibilities:
* Act as the primary escalation point for specialists dealing with complex queries
* Ensure a consistent, high-quality payroll service across the team
* Oversee manual statutory payment calculations (e.g., SMP, SPP, SAP, SHPP) and ensure compliance
* Complete month-end and year-end payroll reconciliations, supporting statutory reporting
* Review pension submissions and ensure accurate formatting and reconciliation
* Work with the Payroll Manager to plan for legislative updates and system changes
* Support onboarding and training of new team members
* Identify and address any salary-sacrifice-related NMW issues
* Assist with annual planning, including system upgrade testing and process adjustments
* Review and anticipate legislative impacts on payroll operations
* Investigate and resolve discrepancies and out-of-balance accounts
* Liaise with external agencies on complex payroll matters
* Provide payroll expertise for TUPE transfers in and out of the organisation
* Support ongoing development and testing of payroll contingency plans
* Identify and implement payroll process improvements
What you'll need to succeed:
* 3-5 years' experience in payroll, including end-to-end processing
* CIPP qualification (or equivalent) - desirable
* Experience with large-scale or enterprise payroll systems
* Strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation and HMRC requirements
* Understanding of occupational pension schemes
* Ability to manage compliance across multiple payrolls
* Project management awareness and ability to plan long-term changes
* Excellent customer service skills and strong communication
* Collaborative approach with leadership ability
* Intermediate Excel skills
What's on offer:
* 25 days annual leave + option to buy more
* High-street discounts and employee perks
* Cycle-to-work scheme
* Workplace pension
* Hybrid working, supportive team, and strong development culture
At Gleeson Recruitment Group, we embrace inclusivity and welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and abilities. We are proud to be a disability confident employer.By applying you will be registered as a candidate with Gleeson Recruitment Limited. Our Privacy Policy is available on our website and explains how we will use your data.