Head of Payroll (18-month FTC)
Exeter, Devon
Salary: £65,000 per annum + Excellent Benefits
Hybrid working available

We are excited to partner with a leading regional employer seeking a talented Head of Payroll (18-month FTC) to lead their payroll function through a period of transformation and growth.

This Head of Payroll role offers a chance to join the Senior Leadership Team, drive innovative payroll solutions aligned with changing legislation and organisational goals, and make a visible, valued impact shaping a market-leading payroll and benefits operation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and develop a high-performing payroll team delivering accurate, compliant services to approximately 16,000 employees across multiple payrolls.
• Oversee payroll operations, £4m employee benefits schemes, and service level agreements for external clients.
• Collaborate with HR, Finance, and Compliance to embed legislative changes, manage risk, and futureproof systems.
• Lead complex payroll queries, change projects, and work with senior stakeholders.
• Drive new income through commercial initiatives, tendering, and client relationship management to expand traded payroll services.
• Manage payroll budgets, provide management reporting, and contribute to organisational planning.
• Promote employee wellbeing and reward schemes through innovative communication to boost engagement.

The Candidate:

• Qualified (CIPP/equivalent) or equivalent experience leading complex, large-scale payroll operations, with extensive technical knowledge in payroll, legislation, employment law, and compliance.
• Leadership experience in multi-site or traded services, with a record of managing teams, performance, budgets, and change, driving continuous improvement.
• Skilled communicator, negotiator, and relationship builder, effective in representing the organisation with clients, senior leaders, and stakeholders.
• Commercially astute and analytical, with success in business growth, managing complexity, and demonstrating resilience, sound judgment, and integrity.

If you would like to know more about this Head of Payroll opportunity, please get in touch with Andrew Perring, here at Lloyd Barnes Recruitment.

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