Payroll Administrator (Bureau) – Newcastle-under-Lyme Howard James Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a well-established and forward-thinking organisation in the search for an experienced Payroll Administrator to join their busy payroll bureau team. This is an excellent opportunity for a detail-oriented payroll professional who enjoys managing multiple client payrolls in a fast-paced environment and thrives on delivering accurate, compliant payroll services. The Role As a Bureau Payroll Administrator, you will be responsible for the end-to-end processing of payroll for a portfolio of clients across a variety of sectors. The successful candidate will have hands-on experience using Sage 50 Payroll and Xero, ensuring payroll is processed efficiently, accurately, and in line with current legislation. Key Responsibilities * Processing weekly, fortnightly, and monthly payrolls for multiple clients * Managing payroll processing, reporting, and reconciliations using Sage 50 Payroll and Xero * Handling starters, leavers, salary changes, and payroll adjustments * Calculating statutory payments including SMP, SSP, SPP, and holiday pay * Administering auto-enrolment pensions, including assessments and submissions * Preparing and submitting RTI filings to HMRC (FPS and EPS) * Responding to payroll queries from clients and employees professionally and promptly * Maintaining accurate payroll records and ensuring GDPR compliance * Supporting year-end processes including P60s and payroll reconciliations * Keeping up to date with UK payroll legislation and statutory requirements Skills & Experience Required * Proven experience as a Payroll Administrator within a bureau environment * Strong working knowledge of Sage 50 Payroll and Xero * Solid understanding of UK payroll legislation and HMRC requirements * Experience managing multiple payrolls with varying pay frequencies * High attention to detail and accuracy * Excellent organisational and time-management skills * Confident communication skills, both written and verbal * Ability to work independently while managing competing deadlines * Professional, adaptable, and positive team-focused approach Desirable (But Not Essential) * CIPP qualification (or working towards) * Experience with pension providers and auto-enrolment compliance * Knowledge of CIS payroll * Experience onboarding new payroll clients and managing payroll transitions What’s On Offer * Competitive salary * Healthcare Cash Plan * Flexible working options * TOIL system * Fully funded CPD support and ongoing training If you’re an experienced payroll professional looking for your next opportunity within a supportive and friendly bureau environment, we’d love to hear from you