Senior Payroll Manager

Role We are seeking an experienced Senior Payroll Manager to oversee end-to-end payroll operations across a portfolio of complex clients and multi-company structures. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate and compliant payroll delivery, managing a small payroll team, and supporting continuous improvement across payroll processes. The ideal candidate is technically strong, confident in handling high-volume and varied client needs, and proactive in staying up-to-date with legislative changes. Key Responsibilities As a Senior Payroll Manager, you will have responsibilities to our teams and employees, alongside the wider business and stakeholders. Payroll Processing & Compliance Lead and deliver timely, accurate payroll processing for complex client portfolios, including multi-company and multi-frequency payrolls. Manage all payroll-related statutory requirements including RTI submissions, statutory payments (SSP, SMP, SPP, SAP, etc.), pension contributions, and attachment of earnings orders. Conduct monthly and annual reconciliations, ensuring compliance with year-end obligations such as P60s, P11Ds, and final submissions. Oversee pension scheme administration including auto-enrolment, re-enrolment, opt-outs, and scheme uploads. Maintain deep awareness of current payroll legislation, contributing to compliance improvements and risk reduction. Team Leadership & Development Manage and mentor payroll processors/assistants, providing technical guidance, coaching, and performance oversight. Oversee workload allocation and quality assurance across the payroll team. Support onboarding and training plans to strengthen team capability and efficiency. Client Relationship Management Act as a senior point of contact for key clients, ensuring exceptional service delivery and proactive communication. Troubleshoot complex payroll queries and provide expert advice on payroll legislation and best practice. Collaborate with finance, HR, and operational teams to ensure seamless cross-departmental processes. Process Improvement Identify opportunities to streamline payroll processes, enhance accuracy, and improve client experience. Support technology adoption, system upgrades, and digitisation of payroll workflows where relevant. You will need: CIPP or IPPE Level 4/5 qualified (or equivalent), with active CIPP membership . Understanding of HMRC processes (PAYE, VAT, CIS, etc.). Recent refresher training completed in: o RTI requirements o Statutory pay updates o Pension regulation changes Demonstrable experience of: o  Managing complex payrolls and multi-company environments o  Handling year-end processes , pensions, and attachments of earnings o  Managing and developing a payroll team Strong working knowledge of payroll systems and Microsoft Excel. Desirable Skills & Knowledge Understanding of ACAS employment law principles as they relate to payroll. Hold (or be working towards) AAT certificates or other finance-related qualifications. Experience working within a bureau, accountancy practice, or multi-client environment. Personal Attributes Highly organised with exceptional attention to detail. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage multiple deadlines. Excellent communication skills, with the confidence to advise clients and lead a team. Proactive, collaborative, and committed to maintaining high standards of compliance and service. Why join us? It’s an exciting time to join the Pxa team while we’re growing and gaining new experiences. Alongside this, you can expect: Competitive salary: £35,000pa Free on-site parking Personal development with funded courses Benenden Health Insurance Flexi working opportunities Friendly and relaxed culture Note: This job description and person specification will be subject to review in the light of changing circumstances and is not intended to be rigid or inflexible but should be regarded as providing guidelines and accountabilities within which the individual works.