Payroll Manager

Role overview

Onside Accounting is looking for an experienced Payroll Manager to strengthen its accounting delivery team and provide specialist guidance across payroll, pensions, and benefits. The position reports to the Client Director and is focused on delivering accurate, compliant, and efficient payroll services for a growing client portfolio.

The role also offers the chance to improve processes, support better client service, and help shape the future of payroll operations through the adoption of new systems and technology. As the client base evolves, you may be involved in evaluating, testing, and rolling out new payroll platforms or tools for both UK and US requirements.

Key responsibilities

• Run monthly payroll for multiple clients, using BrightPay Cloud to manage the process end to end.
• Calculate pay, deductions, statutory payments, and other complex payroll cases with accuracy and punctuality.
• Own the payment process for salaries, pensions, and related deductions so everything is completed correctly each month.
• Submit RTI returns and other HMRC reports within required deadlines.
• Check and resolve mismatches between HMRC data and internal payroll records, including direct communication with HMRC where needed.
• Manage workplace pension administration, including auto-enrolment, salary sacrifice setups, and ongoing compliance.
• Handle P11D compliance work, including preparation and submission.
• Track payroll and pension billing and ensure charges are kept current.
• Coordinate payslip distribution and, for selected clients, upload payroll payment files into Apron, the firm’s payments platform.
• Keep payroll links with Xero accurate and work with accounting colleagues to maintain consistent reporting.

Experience and requirements

• Either qualified through experience or currently working toward, or already holding, a recognised payroll or accounting qualification such as CIPP, Level 4, or an equivalent credential.
• At least 3 years of payroll experience, preferably gained in a UK accountancy practice or payroll bureau.
• Comfortable operating in a modern, paperless professional services environment.
• Strong working knowledge of payroll systems such as BrightPay Cloud, along with a solid understanding of HMRC rules and processes.
• Proven experience managing pensions, benefits, and statutory payments, with the ability to explain these clearly to both colleagues and clients.
• Skilled at prioritising and handling several client workloads at once in a remote and flexible working setup.

Benefits and perks

• Work from home with flexible working arrangements.
• Employee Assistance Program providing wellbeing support and advice.
• Extra paid leave for your birthday.
• 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Buddy support for every new joiner from day one.
• Staff referral bonus scheme.
• Training, support, and progression opportunities.
• Annual performance reviews with a discretionary bonus scheme.
• Bi-annual company meet-ups.

Eligibility

Applicants must live in the UK and have the legal right to work in the UK.

Additional information

The position is for a Payroll Manager (PM) and reports to the Client Director. It is a remote, home-based role within the UK. The salary range is £35,000 to £40,000 for a Payroll Manager and £40,000 to £45,000 for a Senior Payroll Manager, depending on level and experience.

If you are interested in the role or would like more information, you may contact Leah Mason-Wilson at Onside Accounting.