Introduction
Join IRIS in a leadership role where your payroll knowledge, people skills, and calm approach will make a real impact. We're looking for an experienced payroll professional who enjoys supporting others, solving problems, and keeping service standards high. If you're ready to step into team leadership – or you've already led a team and want a fresh challenge – this role gives you the platform, support, and progression to grow.
Overview
As our Client Payroll Team Lead, you'll look after the success of a team of around eight Client Payroll Executives. They manage payrolls for clients across a wide range of industries (excluding Education and Hospitality), and your job is to guide, coach, and support them so every client receives accurate and reliable payroll service. You won't manage your own portfolio – your focus is on people, service quality, and keeping everything running smoothly.
About the Team
You'll be part of the Corporate vertical within our Managed Payroll Services division. This team sits at the heart of our service delivery, working closely with Implementation, Support, Sales, and Account Management to ensure everything runs smoothly. You'll report to a Regional Operations Manager and work alongside other Team Leads to share ideas, solve problems, and create the best possible experience for our clients – and our colleagues.
What You'll Be Doing
* Lead and support a team of around 8 payroll specialists, ensuring they hit deadlines, deliver high-quality work, and feel supported.
* Handle escalations and challenges, keeping calm under pressure and guiding the team to solutions.
* Coach and develop your people through 1:1s, giving feedback, and helping them strengthen their skills.
* Work closely with other teams such as Implementation, Finance, IT, Sales, and Account Management to give clients a smooth, joined‑up experience.
* Plan workloads and monitor service levels, adjusting quickly when things change.
* Help with key operations including onboarding, invoicing, migrations, compliance checks, and maintaining accurate CRM/SharePoint records.
* Encourage a positive team environment, sharing updates clearly, recognising good work, and driving improvements.
* Spot where processes can be better, and help bring those improvements to life.
Qualifications
* Strong payroll processing experience – ideally in a bureau, outsourced, or multi‑client environment.
* A natural ability to support and guide others.
* Confidence handling multiple priorities and staying organised.
* Great attention to detail, plus good working knowledge of Excel and other tools.
* Clear, calm, professional communication skills.
* A collaborative, helpful approach with the confidence to escalates when needed.
Benefits & Development
* A supported move into leadership, with coaching and structured development.
* The chance to influence how payroll services are delivered across our Corporate client base.
* A friendly, inclusive environment where ideas are welcomed.
* A clear career path through the IRIS Career Framework.
* Real impact – you'll see the difference you make to your team and our customers every day.
Salary and Work Location
£45,000 (Hybrid – Basingstoke). If you are applying for the 12‑month fixed‑term contract, the rate is £200–£250 per day.
About the Client
This business operates in the distribution sector, known for its collaborative culture and focus on operational excellence. They believe in empowering their employees with the tools and trust they need.
Application Process
* Short chat with our Talent team.
* CCAT – 15‑minute timed test.
* EPP – untimed personality questionnaire.
* Final interview – competency‑based interview with members of the Managed Payroll Services leadership team.
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