We are seeking an experienced and detail-driven Payroll & Financial Accounting Officer to support our clients delivery of accurate payroll, pensions administration, and financial accounting processes across the organisation.

Reporting to the Financial Accountant, you will play a key role in ensuring timely and compliant payroll and pensions services, while also contributing to monthly accounting processes, year-end accounts, and the annual external audit. This is an excellent opportunity for a payroll and accounting professional who enjoys working with data, supporting governance, and contributing to a values-led organisation.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll & Pensions

You will support the delivery of a high-quality payroll and pensions service, including:

* Delivering accurate and timely monthly payroll for all staff and Board members

* Preparing and submitting payroll, tax, and pension returns and payments to HMRC and pension providers

* Supporting year-end payroll, tax, and pension reporting

* Assisting with the delivery of payroll services to external clients and partner organisations

* Supporting payroll modelling for annual budgeting and public sector pay policy requirements

* Assisting the Authority in meeting all statutory obligations relating to payroll, tax, and pensions

Financial Accounting & Annual Accounts

You will also support the wider financial accounting function by:

* Assisting with corporate accounting processes, financial accounts preparation, and external audit requirements

* Preparing and maintaining monthly balance sheet reconciliations

* Supporting month-end processes, including prepayments, accruals, and asset capitalisation

* Calculating and submitting project accounting claims to external funders

* Providing documentation and evidence to support external audit fieldwork

* Delivering ad hoc financial analysis and forecasting as required

* Maintaining data required for annual carbon reporting

General Responsibilities

* Contributing to the work of the Corporate Services Directorate and the organisation as a whole

* Supporting data modelling and financial analysis using strong numerical and analytical skills

* Ensuring compliance with financial procedures and internal controls

* Demonstrating flexibility to support evolving organisational priorities

* Embracing organisational values, culture, and health and safety requirements

Person Specification

Essential

* Proven experience as a payroll and accounting professional

* Excellent numerical skills, with substantial experience using Excel to manipulate and analyse financial data

* Strong analytical ability, with experience presenting financial information clearly and accurately

* Demonstrable experience in payroll and pensions administration

* Proven ability to handle confidential information with integrity and discretion

* Excellent verbal and written communication skills

* Competent user of Microsoft Office applications

Desirable

* Experience using Access Payroll and Access Financials accounting packages

* Experience running an organisational payroll, including all associated statutory returns

* Experience administering pension schemes, ideally the Civil Service Pension Scheme

* Knowledge of the Gaelic language