Role Summary
We are seeking an experienced Payroll Implementation & Transition Specialist to lead a critical transition from our current payroll provider to a new managed service. This is a hands‑on role where you will not only lead the transition programme but also take ownership of running payroll from day one, ensuring continuity, accuracy, and control during a period of heightened risk.
This is a 6 month fixed‑term contract, with the potential to transition into a permanent position.
Job Responsibilities
Payroll Operations (Hands‑On)
* Take ownership of running end‑to‑end UK payroll from the point of joining, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance.
* Manage payroll inputs, validation, approvals, and outputs, including overtime, bonuses, deductions, and statutory payments.
* Oversee and/or support monthly payroll cycles, managing risks associated with current provider performance issues.
* Perform payroll reconciliations, variance analysis, and error resolution.
* Act as the primary point of contact for payroll queries from employees and stakeholders.
Payroll Transition Leadership
* Lead the end‑to‑end transition from current payroll provider to a new managed service.
* Coordinate activities across HR, Finance, IT, Compliance, and external providers.
* Manage transition plans, timelines, and governance frameworks.
* Act as the central programme lead ensuring delivery against milestones.
Data Migration & Parallel Runs
* Oversee data extraction, cleansing, and migration between providers.
* Lead parallel payroll runs, ensuring full reconciliation and accuracy prior to go‑live.
* Establish robust validation and sign‑off processes to mitigate transition risk.
* Identify and resolve discrepancies proactively.
Risk, Compliance & Controls
* Provide independent payroll assurance throughout the transition.
* Ensure compliance with UK payroll legislation, HMRC requirements, RTI, and statutory reporting.
* Strengthen payroll controls, governance, and audit readiness.
* Reduce operational, financial, and reputational risk linked to payroll inaccuracies.
Process Design & Documentation
* Develop and document Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) covering payroll inputs and timelines.
* Develop and document SOPs covering validation and approval checkpoints.
* Develop and document SOPs covering exception handling and escalation routes.
* Build a controlled and scalable payroll environment for long‑term ownership.
Stakeholder Management
* Partner closely with HR and Finance to ensure continuity of BAU operations.
* Work with IT teams on data, systems, and integration requirements.
* Manage relationship with the external payroll provider (RSM).
* Provide clear communication on progress, risks, and key decisions.
Candidate Requirements
Essential
* Proven experience running UK payroll hands‑on (end‑to‑end ownership).
* CIPP qualification.
* Significant experience leading payroll transitions / implementations, particularly between providers or into managed services.
* Strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation, including RTI, statutory payments, pensions, and year‑end processes.
* Experience managing parallel runs, reconciliations, and payroll sign‑off.
* Demonstrated ability to work across Payroll / HR, Finance (GL, reconciliations, reporting), IT / systems (data migration, integrations), Compliance / audit stakeholders.
* Strong understanding of payroll risk, controls, and governance frameworks.
Personal Attributes
* Highly detail‑oriented with strong accuracy focus.
* Hands‑on and proactive with a delivery mindset.
* Able to operate effectively in a fast‑paced, high‑risk environment.
* Strong communicator with the ability to influence stakeholders.
* Balances strategic oversight with operational execution.
Why Join This Role?
* Lead a business‑critical transformation with immediate impact
* Take ownership of payroll operations during a pivotal stabilisation period
* Opportunity to transition into a permanent role in payroll & benefits
* Build and shape a best‑practice payroll function from the ground up
Working Pattern
* Hybrid: 2 days per week in office (UK‑based).
* Remaining days remote.
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