Payroll Manager (Part-time) NEW

Luton, Bedfordshire
Absolute Recruit

Luton Permanent 0.6 FTE
£50,000-£55,000 full-time equivalent, depending on experience (£30,000-£33,000 at 0.6 FTE)

An established organisation is seeking an experienced Payroll Manager to take ownership of its payroll service, working closely with an external payroll bureau and supporting a Payroll Assistant.

This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys taking responsibility for payroll accuracy, resolving complex queries and making sure processes and controls work effectively. Reporting to the Financial Controller, you’ll provide technical expertise, oversee the bureau’s performance and ensure employees are paid accurately and on time.

The role

• Manage the monthly payroll timetable, ensuring inputs, reviews and approvals meet agreed deadlines.
• Independently review payroll changes, reports and variances, challenging discrepancies and overseeing corrections.
• Take responsibility for final payroll review and sign-off within delegated authority.
• Act as the technical lead on PAYE, National Insurance, statutory payments, pensions and year-end requirements.
• Manage the relationship with the payroll bureau, monitoring service standards and resolving recurring issues.
• Maintain robust payroll controls, reconciliations, procedures and audit records.
• Support and develop the Payroll Assistant, coordinating workloads and cover.
• Work with Finance and HR colleagues to improve reporting, resolve queries and strengthen processes.

About you
You’ll bring substantial UK payroll experience, including oversight of an outsourced or managed payroll service. Strong technical knowledge, attention to detail and confidence in reviewing and challenging payroll information are essential.

You’ll be comfortable managing provider relationships, supporting colleagues and explaining payroll matters clearly. Experience of payroll controls, reconciliations and resolving complex queries will also be key.

A CIPP qualification or equivalent would be welcome. Experience of payroll systems implementation or bringing payroll in-house would be an advantage, but is not essential. The immediate focus is on managing and improving the existing outsourced service.

Hours and working arrangements
The role is offered at 0.6 FTE, worked across a minimum of three days per week. Shorter days across four or five days can also be considered. The final working pattern will be agreed to provide suitable overlap with the Payroll Assistant and effective cover throughout the week.

The first six months will be office-based in Luton. Hybrid working may be considered after this period, with office attendance required around payroll cut-off and following payday to support employee queries.