Payroll and Employee Benefits Manager.

Payroll and Employee Benefits Manager

Job Title: Payroll and Employee Benefits Manager
Location: Belfast
Contract Type: Temporary
Pay rate £22.64 per hour
37 hours per week Monday – Friday

An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Payroll and Employee Benefits Manager to lead a growing team responsible for delivering payroll and employee payment services to over 3,000 employees. The role covers payroll operations, travel claim processing, agency staffing payments, and compliance with all HMRC employment-related requirements.

This position is ideal for a driven payroll professional who can lead a busy team, maintain strong financial controls, and develop processes that support efficient and compliant employee payment services.

About the Role

As Payroll and Employee Benefits Manager, you will:

• Lead the day‑to‑day operations of a small payroll team delivering a high‑quality monthly payroll service.
• Oversee accurate and timely processing of travel claims and agency staffing payments.
• Ensure compliance with all HMRC legislation including PAYE, NIC, statutory payments, PSA, P11D and salary sacrifice schemes.
• Provide effective financial control through ledger reconciliations and oversight of payroll‑related accounts.
• Work closely with HR to ensure smooth processes for starters and leavers, minimising payroll errors.
• Support systems development and enhancement, including Midland iTrent and the travel claims system.
• Develop and report on KPIs, ensuring continuous improvement within the payroll function.
• Represent the Finance function at internal and external working groups.
• Manage training, performance, motivation and development of payroll staff.
• Maintain risk management, business continuity and system security documentation.

Essential Qualifications & Experience

Candidates must have one of:

• A recognised UK payroll qualification accredited by the Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals (CIPP),
  OR
• A relevant degree or equivalent, with at least 3 years’ experience managing a Payroll function,
  OR
• At least 5 years’ experience managing a Payroll function (if no formal qualification).

Essential Skills & Knowledge

Applicants must demonstrate:

• Strong technical payroll knowledge including PAYE, NIC, statutory payments (SMP, SPP, SSP) and gross‑to‑net calculations.
• Up‑to‑date understanding of payroll legislation.
• Experience with computerised payroll systems (ideally Midland iTrent) and strong MS Excel skills.
• Knowledge of bookkeeping and accounting processes.
• Experience with PSA, P11D, salary sacrifice schemes and HMRC expense rules.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a structured and collaborative team.