Payroll and Pensions Manager

About the Role

The Payroll & Pensions Manager is responsible for the effective management, compliance, accuracy and continuous improvement of all payroll and pension processes across the organisation for clinical and non clinical staff. The role ensures payroll operations are delivered accurately and efficiently while maintaining full compliance with HMRC regulations and NHS Pension Scheme requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the end to end payroll function and pension administration for all staff.
• Ensure compliance with all statutory payroll obligations, including HMRC RTI submissions, year end reporting and statutory reporting.
• Maintain payroll data integrity, implement effective controls and governance procedures.
• Prepare and submit statutory payroll returns and reports.
• Review and improve payroll and pension processes to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Provide expert advice and guidance to managers, staff and external stakeholders on payroll and pension matters.
• Deliver training and support on payroll and pension processes to managers and staff.
• Produce management information and reporting to support decision making and compliance requirements.
• Work collaboratively with HR and Finance to support workforce planning and organisational objectives.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum 3 years' financial or payroll experience.
• Significant experience managing payroll and pension administration, preferably NHS/healthcare.
• Strong knowledge of payroll legislation, HMRC requirements and statutory reporting.
• Experience of NHS Pension Scheme administration (desirable).
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel, and experience with payroll systems.
• Strong analytical, organisational and problem solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills and ability to provide expert advice.
• Experience of reviewing and improving payroll processes and systems.
• Ability to build positive working relationships with stakeholders at all levels.

Person Specification

• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, for data analysis and reporting.
• Proven ability to lead and coordinate teams across multiple sites and functions.
• Strong horizon scanning and change management capability in payroll legislation and NHS guidance.
• Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence decision making.
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills, with capability to investigate discrepancies and implement solutions.
• Demonstrable experience in maintaining comprehensive audit trails and documentation.
• Ability to manage competing priorities, work independently and maintain confidentiality.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We welcome applications irrespective of age, disability, sex, gender identity, gender expression, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation or other personal circumstances. Reasonable adjustments will be considered and supported where required.