We are working with an impressive Chartered Accountancy Practice recognised for delivering high-quality, tailored accounting, tax, and advisory services to a diverse client base. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, professional development, and exceptional client service, this is an exciting opportunity to join a progressive and collaborative firm in a pivotal Payroll Manager role.
This position offers responsibility for overseeing end-to-end payroll operations, managing key client relationships, and supporting the development of a small in-house payroll team. It is ideally suited to an experienced payroll professional looking to make a meaningful impact within a growing and forward-thinking practice.
Key Responsibilities:
Payroll Processing & Review
- Prepare, process, and review payrolls for a portfolio of clients, ensuring accuracy of pay, deductions, statutory payments, and RTI submissions
- Oversee and quality-check payrolls completed by team members, ensuring consistent standards and compliance
Pension Administration
- Manage workplace pension schemes including enrolments, re-enrolments, contributions, and provider submissions
- Support the auto-enrolment team by supplying accurate data for declarations of compliance
- Monitor pension deadlines and ensure adherence to current legislation
Client Account Reconciliation
- Reconcile client payroll control accounts and investigate discrepancies
- Ensure accurate and timely payment of PAYE, NIC, pension contributions, and other statutory deductions
Client Support & Relationship Management
- Act as the primary point of contact for client payroll queries, providing clear, timely, and professional guidance
- Build and maintain strong client relationships while delivering a consistently high level of service
Compliance & Deadline Management
- Track payroll and pension deadlines to avoid penalties and late submissions
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of payroll legislation and best practice through CPD, webinars, and technical updates
Team Leadership
- Supervise two Payroll Assistants, providing training, technical support, and workload management
- Encourage continuous improvement and support the professional development of the payroll team
Systems & Tools
- Sage Payroll (primary system)
- Various pension provider portals and statutory submission systems
Requirements:
- Proven experience in a senior payroll role within a UK accountancy practice or bureau environment
- Strong working knowledge of UK payroll legislation, RTI, PAYE, NIC, and workplace pensions
- Experience using Sage Payroll is essential
- Confident communicator with a client-focused mindset
- Strong attention to detail with excellent organisational and problem-solving skills
- Living within Oxfordshire area with own transport
- Experience supervising or mentoring junior staff is highly desirable
Benefits:
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Flexible working arrangements
- Rapid progression opportunities for high-performing individuals
- Mentoring and development from experienced Partners
- 25 days holiday + 4 additional firm-wide days + your birthday off
- Access to pension scheme and Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- Regular team events and a friendly, inclusive team culture
Recruitment Note
Due to the unprecedented volume of response, we regret that we are unable to respond to every application individually. If you have not heard from us within 5 days, please assume your application has been unsuccessful. We do review every CV carefully and will be in contact should a suitable opportunity arise in the future.