UK Payroll Administrator (6 month FTC)

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented UK Payroll Administrator on a 6-month fixed term contract to support the accurate and timely delivery of UK payroll activities. Reporting to the Global Payroll Manager, you will work closely with HR to process the UK payroll changes correctly, handle employee queries professionally and document UK payroll processes.

The role will support the end-to-end UK payroll cycle, including payroll input preparation, data checks, pensions administration support, payroll reporting, reconciliations and maintaining accurate payroll records. You will also help ensure payroll changes from HR are captured on time and processed in line with internal deadlines and UK compliance requirements.

This is a suitable opportunity for someone who wants to utilise their UK payroll knowledge within a dynamic international business.

What will you be doing?

• Support the monthly UK payroll process, ensuring payroll data is collected, checked and submitted in line with agreed deadlines.

• Prepare and validate payroll input, including starters, leavers, salary changes, variable payments, deductions, benefits and absence-related adjustments.

• Write and maintain standard operating procedures, payroll calendars and process notes.

• Assist with payroll checks and exception reporting to help ensure payroll outputs are accurate before approval.

• Maintain accurate payroll records and ensure supporting documentation is filed appropriately.

• Support employee payroll queries, escalating more complex issues to the Global Payroll Manager or the wider payroll team where required.

• Work closely with HR to ensure payroll-related employee changes are captured accurately and on time.

• Assist with UK statutory payroll processes, including PAYE, National Insurance, statutory sick pay, statutory maternity/paternity/adoption pay and student loan deductions.

• Support pension and benefits administration, including employee contributions, employer contributions and routine data checks.

• Assist with payroll reconciliations and provide information to Finance for month-end reporting requirements.

• Support the preparation of payroll-related reports and management information.

• Liaise with external payroll providers and internal stakeholders to resolve routine payroll queries.

• Support year-end payroll activities, including P60s, P11D support where relevant and other UK payroll reporting requirements.

• Contribute to process improvements, automation opportunities and the strengthening of payroll controls.

• Handle payroll information confidentially and in line with data protection requirements.

Skills and Experience

• Previous experience using UK payroll systems such as Cintra, SAP or ADP.

• Previous experience with Workday HR systems required.

• Good understanding of payroll administration processes and the importance of accuracy, deadlines and confidentiality.

• Strong attention to detail and ability to work with employee data and numerical information.

• Good Microsoft Excel skills, including confidence using basic formulas, filters and data checks.

• Clear written and verbal communication skills, with a professional approach to handling employee queries.

• Highly organised with the ability to manage recurring deadlines and follow structured processes.

• Good knowledge of UK payroll rules, payroll controls and statutory compliance requirements.

• Able to work collaboratively with Payroll, HR, Finance and external providers.

• Awareness of PAYE, National Insurance, pensions auto-enrolment and statutory payments.

• Experience supporting reconciliations, payroll reporting or finance month-end processes.

Personal Attributes

• Accurate, reliable and comfortable working with confidential information.

• Curious and keen to learn, with a proactive approach to building payroll knowledge.

• Customer-focused and professional when responding to employee and stakeholder queries.

• Able to follow processes while also identifying where improvements can be made.

• Calm under pressure and able to prioritise during payroll deadlines.

• Collaborative, approachable and willing to support colleagues across Payroll, HR and Finance.

• Results-oriented with strong organisational skills.

What's in it for you

Our rapidly growing, award-winning business offers a dynamic environment for talented, entrepreneurial professionals to achieve results and grow their careers. Argus recognises and rewards successful performance and as an Investor in People, we promote professional development and retain a high-performing team committed to building our success.

• Competitive salary and company bonus scheme

• Group pension scheme

• Group healthcare and life assurance scheme

• Flexible working environment

• 25 days holiday with annual increase up to 30 days

• Subsidised gym membership

• Season ticket travel loans

• Cycle to work scheme

• Extensive internal and external training