Head of Payroll

Finance Department

University of Brighton is a vibrant and inclusive academic community committed to excellence in education and research.  With a diverse student body and a dedicated team of staff, we strive to create an environment where everyone can thrive and achieve their full potential.

We are seeking a highly experienced individual to join our team as the Head of Payroll.  In this key leadership role, you will be responsible for managing all aspects of payroll processing, including calculation, distribution, and reporting, for a large and diverse workforce, for the payment of c2,200 permanent staff and a large number of casual staff throughout the year.  You will be overseeing the payroll and pension functions to ensure accuracy, compliance, and efficiency. The successful candidate will lead a team of payroll professionals and work collaboratively with other departments to support the university's strategic objectives, and ensuring compliance with statutory regulations, tax laws, and pension scheme requirements.

The key responsibilities of this role will include:

• Lead and develop a team of payroll professionals, providing guidance, support, and training as needed.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures to streamline payroll processes and enhance efficiency.
• Collaborate with HR, and other departments to address payroll-related issues and support organisational goals.
• Stay updated with changes in payroll legislation and pension regulations, and implement necessary updates to ensure compliance.
• Oversee pension scheme administration, including enrolment, contributions, and communication with scheme providers and employees.
• Handle escalated payroll inquiries and resolve complex payroll issues in a timely and effective manner.
• Maintain confidentiality and data security standards in payroll and pension operations.

In order to be successful in this role you should have extensive experience in payroll management, preferably in a large organisation or higher education institution, along with in-depth knowledge of payroll regulations, tax laws, and pension schemes in the UK.  Additional Qualifications and Experience required include:

• Bachelor's degree in related field or clear evidence of extensive relevant experience and/or a holder of a relevant professional qualification
• Professional payroll certification (e.g., CIPP).
• and/or clearly evidenced equivalent experience.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and develop a team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with employees at all levels.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail, with the ability to handle sensitive and confidential information.
• Proficiency in payroll software and systems, with experience in process improvement initiatives.

At the University of Brighton, we are committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment where diversity is celebrated, and individual talents are valued. As the Head of Payroll, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact and contribute to the success of our institution.  We offer competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

This role is full-time (37.0 hours per week), however we will consider applications from candidates seeking to job share, and is offered on a permanent basis.  This role is eligible for agile working, meaning that you will have the opportunity to work part of the week remotely.

Further details:

• Job Description