Portfolio Payroll are proud to be partnering with a leading accountancy firm to appoint a Payroll Director on a permanent basis - a truly strategic leadership role at the forefront of payroll transformation.
The Opportunity
This is not just an operational leadership role - it’s a key position where you will shape, monitor, and evolve the firm’s national payroll operating model, driving innovation, consistency, and excellence across all regions.
You’ll lead a high-performing national team while playing a central role in defining the future of payroll services, including automation, offshore delivery, and client experience.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and unify the national payroll function, ensuring alignment across all regional offices
* Drive strategic change initiatives, exploring AI, automation, and digital transformation opportunities
* Act as the payroll representative within firm-wide governance, influencing key decisions
* Oversee and monitor performance across UK and offshore payroll teams, ensuring quality and control
* Manage outsourced bureau operations and optimise delivery models
* Develop and execute recruitment and workforce strategies to support growth
* Support partners and client teams in positioning the offshore payroll model as a high-quality, controlled solution
* Maintain and enhance the client relationship model, acting as a senior contact for key clients
* Navigate complex client situations, including onboarding and restructuring
* Lead payroll system implementations and upgrades, driving efficiency and scalability
* Deliver enhanced reporting and insights, including KPI dashboards, billing metrics, and timesheet tracking
* Coach, mentor, and develop payroll talent across the business
What We’re Looking For
* Proven experience leading a national payroll function
* Strong track record in systems implementation, optimisation, and automation
* Exceptional organisational and delivery skills, with the ability to meet tight deadlines
* Confident leader and communicator, with strong stakeholder management experience
* Background within a large payroll bureau or accountancy firm
* Experience across multiple payroll platforms
* Solid understanding of UK payroll legislation
If you’re looking for a role where you can genuinely influence strategy, modernise operations, and lead at scale, this is a rare opportunity to make a lasting impact.
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