Head of Payroll

Overview

Based in central London, this role offers a salary range of 60000 to 80000 annually, tailored to experience. The working arrangement initially includes three days per week onsite until January 2027, after which it will require full-time office presence. This opportunity involves partnering with a well-established British consumer brand to establish and lead their newly insourced payroll function.

Role Summary

As the inaugural Head of Payroll, you will have full accountability for defining and managing payroll strategies and operations. This includes overseeing the transition from outsourced payroll services to an internally run function, directly reporting to the Finance Director and maintaining a secondary reporting line to the Head of HR. Your leadership will be critical in deploying a new payroll system and instituting comprehensive processes and controls that align with future business expansion.

Key Responsibilities

• Own the payroll function fully, ensuring accurate and prompt payroll processing for about 200 staff members.
• Manage payroll for a diverse workforce consisting of permanent employees and self-employed individuals, inclusive of commission, variable pay, and TRONC arrangements.
• Lead the shift from outsourced payroll arrangements to a fully internalized function.
• Select, evaluate, and supervise the rollout of a new payroll platform in collaboration with senior finance leadership.
• Create and reinforce payroll policies, governance, and compliance systems to support growth.
• Serve as the organization’s expert on payroll legislation, adherence, and best practices.
• Collaborate with Finance, HR, and operations to assure smooth integration of payroll processes.
• Build robust relationships with senior management to shape payroll strategy and encourage continuous enhancement.
• Identify and implement automation opportunities and process improvements.
• Maintain full compliance with all statutory payroll and HMRC regulations as well as internal policies.

Candidate Profile

• Extensive experience managing complete payroll functions at a senior level, such as Payroll Manager or Head of Payroll.
• Demonstrated success in transitioning payroll in-house or leading payroll system implementation.
• In-depth knowledge of payroll law, controls, governance, and compliance standards.
• Background in multi-site operations, preferably within retail, hospitality, leisure, beauty, or similar customer-focused industries.
• Experience handling complex payroll elements including commissions, variable pay, and TRONC.
• Proven ability to manage stakeholders and influence at senior leadership levels.
• Strategic thinker who retains a practical, hands-on approach to payroll leadership.
• Track record of enhancing payroll operations and governance.
• Strong leadership skills with potential to develop the payroll team as the business evolves.

Benefits and Additional Information

• Complimentary services and generous staff discounts on products.
• Participation in company pension scheme.
• Starting with 22 days of annual leave, increasing to 25 days with service length, plus public holidays.
• Flexible working hours, with core office time between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
• The unique chance to lead and shape a payroll function from inception.
• High-profile role with significant strategic influence across Finance and HR.
• Long-term growth and career development prospects in a flourishing company.