Head of Payroll Job at London Full Time NEW

This Interim Head of Payroll role (6 -12 month FTC – opportunity to go perm) leads the end-to-end payroll and benefits function for a complex, UK multi-entity organisation, ensuring accurate, compliant delivery while partnering closely with Finance and HR. It also drives strategic review and transformation of payroll systems and processes, including Workday optimisation, operating model improvements, and potential benefits platform implementation.

Client Details

This organisation is a leading player in the UK property and real estate space, managing large, high-profile developments and mixed-use estates across a well-known portfolio. They’ve built a strong reputation for delivering landmark projects and creating long-term value, supported by significant investment, a diverse workforce, and a consistent focus on growth, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Description

• Lead and develop the Payroll (4 staff) and Benefits (2 staff) teams, driving a high-performing and supportive culture
• Oversee the accurate and timely delivery of multiple monthly payrolls, including both salaried and shift-based employees
• Ensure full compliance across payroll, pensions, and benefits in line with UK statutory requirements
• Partner closely with HR to ensure seamless end-to-end processes across the employee lifecycle
• Optimise Workday usage, enhancing controls, automation, and reporting capabilities
• Review current payroll and benefits processes, identifying opportunities for improvement and transformation
• Assess and support potential changes to the operating model, including outsourcing considerations
• Lead the evaluation and potential implementation of a new benefits platform
• Support the delivery of Group bonus, LTIP, and salary review processes in collaboration with senior stakeholders
• Provide Finance with accurate payroll and pensions data, including BACS and liability reporting
• Oversee production of pay gap reporting and other key business metrics
• Act as a senior point of contact for Finance and HR, supporting on ad hoc queries and projects

Profile

• MUST HAVE – workday payroll experience (candidates without this will not be considered)
• Extensive experience leading payroll and benefits within a complex, multi-entity or multi-payroll environment
• Proven leadership capability, with experience managing teams through managers and driving a high-performance culture
• Strong expertise in Workday, with a focus on optimisation, controls, and reporting improvements
• Demonstrated track record in payroll transformation and process improvement initiatives
• Strong understanding of UK payroll legislation, compliance, and statutory requirements
• Experience partnering closely with HR in integrated people and payroll environments
• Experience assessing or implementing benefits platforms (desirable)
• Advanced Excel skills, with the ability to manage and analyse complex data sets

Job Offer

• Competitive salary ranging from £80,000 to £100,000 GBP.
• Hybrid role – 4 days in the office 1 day from home
• Opportunity to work within a respected organisation in the property industry.
• Fixed-term contract offering valuable experience in a senior leadership role.
• Chance to make a significant impact on payroll and pensions operations.

If you are ready to bring your expertise in payroll and pensions to this exciting interim opportunity, we encourage you to apply today