Senior Payroll Specialist

Overview

Are you an experienced UK Payroll professional looking to take on a bigger challenge?

I am partnering with a global business, headquartered in Cambridge, who are looking for a Senior Payroll Specialist to take ownership of their UK payroll, covering around 2,000 employees.

You'll be the go-to expert for all things payroll and benefits, ensuring accuracy and compliance while also playing a key role in shaping how payroll is delivered in the future.

Responsibilities

• Managing the full UK payroll cycle for c.2,000 employees, including benefits, pensions, and statutory contributions.
• Acting as the subject matter expert on payroll legislation, compliance, and governance.
• Working closely with HR, Finance, and external providers to deliver a seamless payroll service.
• Leading and supporting payroll process improvements, system upgrades, and policy transformations.
• Providing trusted advice on payroll matters across the organisation.

Qualifications

• Proven recent experience managing large-scale UK payrolls (1,000+ employees ideally).
• Strong technical payroll knowledge, including HMRC reporting, pensions, benefits, and compliance.
• Someone comfortable influencing and implementing change, not just keeping the lights on.
• Excellent attention to detail, with the ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
• CIPP qualified (preferred)

Benefits

• Salary up to £60,000 (depending on experience) plus an extensive benefits package
• Hybrid working - 50% of the month to be office based
• The opportunity to join a well-established global business and be influential in transformations

If you're ready to take on a lead role, where you will take ownership of a complex UK payroll and help shape the future of payroll delivery in a global setting, we'd love to hear from you.