Head of Payroll

This is a strategic and hands-on leadership position, responsible for building and leading the payroll function from the ground up. The successful candidate will be instrumental in designing scalable processes, selecting and implementing payroll systems, and ensuring compliance across multiple jurisdictions.

Key ResponsibilitiesPayroll Strategy & Leadership

• Define and execute the global payroll strategy aligned with the company's growth and international expansion.
• Build and lead a high-performing payroll team, fostering a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Act as the subject matter expert for payroll across the business, advising senior stakeholders on risks, compliance, and operational efficiency.

Function Setup & Implementation

• Lead the setup of the payroll function, including team structure, policies, controls, and governance frameworks.
• Select and implement a fit-for-purpose payroll system (e.g., ADP, Workday, Deel, or similar), ensuring integration with HRIS and finance platforms.
• Develop and document scalable payroll processes and workflows for UK and international entities.
• Establish KPIs and reporting frameworks to monitor payroll performance and compliance.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee end-to-end payroll processing for all employees, ensuring timely and accurate payments across multiple countries.
• Manage relationships with external payroll providers, ensuring service quality and cost-effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with all statutory requirements including PAYE, NI, pensions, benefits, and international tax obligations.
• Lead payroll audits and ensure readiness for internal and external reviews.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with HR, Finance, Legal, and IT to align payroll operations with compensation, benefits, and regulatory requirements.
• Support reward and compensation planning with payroll insights and feasibility assessments.
• Provide payroll data and analysis to support financial planning, budgeting, and workforce strategy.

Continuous Improvement & Innovation

• Drive automation and digital transformation within payroll operations.
• Stay ahead of legislative changes and industry trends, proactively adapting processes and systems.
• Champion employee experience by ensuring payroll accuracy, transparency, and responsiveness.