Head of Payroll & Pensions
Lewisham Council • Permanent Role
Salary: £79,629 • Hybrid (2 days per week in the office)

We are seeking an experienced Head of Payroll & Pensions to lead the strategic direction, performance, and development of Lewisham Council's payroll and pension services. This is a key leadership role overseeing payroll for around 6,000 employees and pension administration for more than 28,000 scheme members.

As the Head of Payroll & Pensions, you will take full responsibility for the delivery of a compliant, customer-focused and high-performing service. You'll manage the payroll and pensions teams, lead system integrity across Oracle Cloud and Altair, and ensure that all statutory, regulatory, and LGPS requirements are met.

Key Responsibilities
Lead and develop a high-performing payroll and pensions service, ensuring accuracy, compliance and excellent customer experience.
Provide strategic leadership on all payroll and pension matters, advising senior finance and HR stakeholders.
Manage and develop payroll and pensions staff, promoting a culture of accountability, performance, and continuous improvement.
Ensure the integrity and effective operation of payroll and pension systems, including Oracle Cloud, Altair, and legacy databases.
Interpret and implement complex payroll and pension legislation, including LGPS Regulations and statutory taxation requirements.
Lead the administration of LGPS employer relationships, including schools, academies, and admitted bodies.
Oversee system controls, fraud prevention measures, audit requirements, reconciliations and all statutory reporting.
Manage relationships with HMRC, actuaries, auditors, schools and external partners.
Lead on actuarial valuations, employer admission agreements, risk assessments and policy updates.
Represent Lewisham Council at Pension Board, Pension Investment Committee and relevant forums.
Act as an authorised signatory for payroll and pension payments.
Ensure timely, accurate information for pension fund accounting, year-end processes, taxation returns and regulatory submissions.About You To succeed as the Head of Payroll & Pensions, you will bring:

Significant senior-level experience in payroll and pension administration, ideally within local government.
Expert knowledge of LGPS regulations, payroll legislation, and the wider statutory framework.
Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, develop and manage multidisciplinary teams.
Experience with large-scale payroll and pension systems, including Oracle and Altair.
Excellent analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.
The ability to work strategically, manage complex workloads and influence at senior levels.
A strong understanding of audit requirements, financial controls and performance management.
A commitment to equality, diversity and high professional standards.
Relevant professional qualification (e.g., MCIPPdip) or equivalent experience.Requirements
Eligible to work in the UK
Minimum 3 years' referenceable work history
Ability to work 2 days per week in the office
Commitment to confidentiality, integrity and professional conduct
Basic DBS CheckHow to Apply If you are an experienced Head of Payroll & Pensions looking for a senior leadership role with impact, we'd love to hear from you.
📞 Contact Phil at Ackerman Pierce
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