(FTC) Payroll Manager

Great opportunity within the retail sector to take full payroll ownership of a high performing, large UK outfit. This is initially a fixed term contract with a likelihood of a permanent transition. Client Details Our Client • A UK leading organisation, employing more than 10,000 employees domestically • Large geographical presence up and down the UK • High performing payroll function with deep integration with HR and Finance operations • Roots within Suffolk and Cambridgeshire Description (FTC) Payroll Manager • Oversee day to day delivery of accurate, compliant and timely payroll services • Maintain effective payroll processes, controls, and governance to ensure legislative and company compliance. • Support the ongoing development and optimisation of payroll systems, processes, and ways of working. • Provide expertise and operational support for payroll-related change initiatives, system enhancements, and business projects. • Lead and develop a high-performing payroll team, promoting service excellence and continuous improvement. • Monitor payroll performance, risks, and service metrics, ensuring issues are identified and resolved effectively. • Build strong relationships with HR, Finance, Technology teams, external providers, and regulatory bodies to support operational delivery. • Support audit, compliance, and regulatory activities, ensuring payroll remains audit-ready and aligned with changing legislation. Profile (FTC) Payroll Manager Need to be within a commutable distance of the office (Suffolk) for 3x days per week in the office Immediately available or happy to commence an initial FTC term • Strong technical knowledge of UK payroll legislation, HMRC requirements, statutory payments, pensions, and compliance obligations. • Experience managing payroll within a shared services, outsourced, or high-volume environment. • A track record of delivering accurate payroll services while maintaining effective controls, governance, and risk management. • Strong people leadership skills, with the ability to develop teams, build capability, and create a positive, customer-focused culture. • Experience supporting payroll-related change, including system implementations, process improvements, and business transformation initiatives. • Ability to work effectively with senior stakeholders, HR, Finance, Technology teams, and external service providers. • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to use data and insights to improve performance and service delivery. • Experience managing audits, regulatory reviews, and compliance activities. • • Personal Attributes • • Collaborative and pragmatic approach to leadership. • Resilient and calm under pressure, particularly during critical payroll periods. • Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy. • Commercially aware, balancing operational excellence with business priorities. • Credible and influential communicator, able to build trust at all levels. • Proactive, organised, and comfortable operating in a fast-paced, changing environment. Job Offer (FTC) Payroll Manager • Salary: c. £50,000 - £60,000 (dependent on experience) • Initial 9 month interim term (likelihood of extension / permanent transition) • 3x days per week on site (full time position) • Free parking on site (Suffolk) • 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays