Your newpany
A large public-sector organisation in Northern Ireland is seeking an experienced Payroll & Employee Benefits Manager to join its centralised finance and shared services function. This organisation supports thousands of employees across multiple operational areas and is currently expanding its payroll capability to enhance service delivery, streamline employee payments, and strengthenpliance. You will join a well-established team that is focused on continuous improvement, strong financialernance, and delivering a high-quality service to internal stakeholders.
Your new role
In this role, you will lead the payroll and employee benefits function, managing a small team and ensuring accurate, timely processing for over 3,000 employees. Your key responsibilities will include:
1. Managing the day‑to‑day operation of the monthly payroll and employee payments.
2. Ensuring accurate processing of travel and expenses, and oversight of agency staff payments.
3. Leading payroll reconciliations, deductions, and financial controls in line with policies and legislation.
4. Working closely with HR to maintain effective processes for starters, leavers, and changes.
5. Ensuringpliance with HMRC requirements, including statutory returns and employee benefit reporting.
6. Supporting system improvements and enhancements across payroll and expenses platforms.
7. Handling KPIs, reporting, year‑end tasks and contributing to continuous improvement.
8. Managing, developing and supporting payroll staff to ensure high service standards.
9. Representing the team on internalmittees and deputising for senior finance managers when required.
What you'll need to succeed
Qualifications & Experience:
10. A recognised UK payroll qualification (CIPP accredited), relevant degree, or equivalent
OR
11. At least five years’ experience managing a payroll function.
Essential Skills:
12. Minimum of three years’ experience managing a payroll function (or five years without the qualification route).
13. Strong technical payroll knowledge including gross-to-net calculations, PAYE, NIC and statutory payments (SMP, SPP, SSP).
14. Up-to-date knowledge of payroll legislation and HMRC requirements.
15. Strong bookkeeping skills and understanding of payroll-related accounting processes.
16. Confident user ofputerised payroll systems and Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
17. Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively within a structured team environment.
What you'll get in return
18. Opportunity to lead a growing payroll and employee benefits function
19. Supportive working environment with strong values and professional development opportunities
20. The chance to contribute to large-scale organisational improvements across finance and shared services
21. Hybrid working options (where applicable) and excellent work-life balance
22. Ongoing contract with potential for extension or permanency