Payroll Senior / Payroll Team Lead

£30,000 - £35,000 + Benefits | South Derbyshire | Hybrid (3 days onsite)

Progression to Payroll Manager | Transformation Projects | Multi-Entity Environment

Are you an experienced Payroll Senior or Payroll Team Lead looking for more responsibility, project exposure and a genuine pathway into Payroll Manager?

We're supporting a fast-growing, multi-entity organisation undergoing a major transformation as they bring payroll fully in-house. They're now looking for a Payroll Senior / Payroll Team Lead to join the team and play a key role in shaping a modern, efficient and compliant payroll function.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys hands-on payroll delivery and wants to develop their leadership, systems and project capability.

The Opportunity

Reporting directly into the Head of Payroll, you'll take ownership of day-to-day payroll operations while supporting wider improvement work. You'll have exposure to system implementation, new processes, enhanced controls, and the creation of a high-performing payroll function from the ground up.

If you're looking for a role where you can grow quickly, gain project experience, and step into a Payroll Manager position in the near future — this is it.

Key Responsibilities

* Lead end-to-end payroll processing across multiple UK and global entities

* Process payroll inputs including new starters, leavers, deductions, pensions and statutory payments

* Ensure full compliance with HMRC, pension and statutory regulations

* Support audits, payroll reporting, journals and reconciliations

* Improve processes, strengthen controls and help embed best practice

* Mentor and support junior team members as the team grows

* Work with the Head of Payroll on transformation projects, system improvements and the transition from outsourced to in-house payroll

* Act as a key point of contact for payroll queries across the business

About You

* Experienced Payroll Senior or Payroll Team Lead in a busy, multi-site or multi-entity environment

* Confident delivering accurate, compliant payroll with strong attention to detail

* Interested in projects, systems and continuous improvement

* Keen to build your leadership experience and progress into Payroll Manager

* Strong communicator, collaborative, and comfortable working with HR, Finance and operational teams

* Experience with CIS, IR35 or international payroll exposure

* Knowledge of UK payroll legislation, pensions and HMRC requirements

If you're ready to take the next step in your payroll career and want a role with impact, development and real progression, we'd love to speak with you