Payroll Manager Jobs

Payroll Manager jobs offer an excellent opportunity to lead a key business function, ensuring employees are paid accurately, on time, and in full compliance with UK payroll legislation.

A Payroll Manager oversees the entire payroll department, managing processes, systems, and people to ensure smooth and efficient payroll operations. This role is critical to maintaining employee satisfaction, legal compliance, and financial accuracy across the organisation.

Payroll Managers play a vital role in any business, ensuring payroll runs seamlessly while managing a team of payroll professionals. Their work not only ensures compliance with regulations but also supports employee trust and operational efficiency. Typical responsibilities include: Payroll Processing, Compliance, System Management, Record Keeping, 

Issue Resolution, Reporting, Team Leadership. 

Payroll Managers are often the link between HR, finance, and compliance teams, ensuring payroll processes align with the wider business strategy.

How to Become a Payroll Manager

To secure a Payroll Manager job in the UK, you’ll need the right combination of education, experience, and leadership ability.

Education

Most employers look for a degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field. However, relevant experience and payroll qualifications can be equally valuable.

Qualifications and Training

Professional certifications can strengthen your expertise and career prospects, such as: CIPP (Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals) Diploma in Payroll Management, AAT (Association of Accounting Technicians) qualifications, CIMA or ACCA qualifications for broader finance and management knowledge.

Experience

Experience in payroll administration or payroll officer roles is typically required before progressing to management level. Exposure to managing complex payroll systems, implementing process improvements, and leading teams will give you an advantage.

Staying up to date with payroll regulations, tax legislation, and technology advancements is also essential for long-term career success.

Key Skills for Payroll Manager Jobs

Employers look for Payroll Managers who can combine technical expertise with strong people and process management skills. Key strengths include:

• Excellent attention to detail and numerical accuracy

• Strong knowledge of UK payroll and employment law

• Proficiency in payroll software (such as Sage, Xero, ADP, or BrightPay)

• Leadership and team management experience

• Analytical and problem-solving skills

• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities

Browse our latest Payroll Manager jobs and take the next step in your payroll and finance career today.