Payroll Specialist

We have a fantastic opportunity for a proactive and people-focused Payroll Specialist to join the University of Manchester at an exciting time for our People services. This is far more than a transactional payroll role. It is an opportunity to lead, influence, and improve how payroll supports colleagues across the University, delivering a service that is accurate, compliant, responsive, and genuinely employee-centred. Working closely with colleagues across People, Finance, IT and external providers, you will help shape a payroll service that supports the success of our people and the wider University community. You will be responsible for leading accurate and compliant payroll delivery across UK and international payrolls, whilst providing expert support for payroll reporting, audit activities, testing, and legislative compliance. The role will give you the chance to identify opportunities to improve systems, processes and ways of working, whilst coaching and supporting payroll colleagues to strengthen capability, problem-solving and professional judgement. About You We encourage applications from individuals with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences. You should demonstrate: Significant payroll experience within a complex or fast-paced environment A strong understanding of payroll legislation, compliance and operational best practice Experience supporting international payroll The ability to manage detail whilst thinking proactively and commercially about service improvement Excellent communication and relationship building skills Confidence working with payroll systems, reporting and process improvement activity Experience coaching, mentoring or supporting colleagues within a payroll environment Experience working within a large, matrix or complex organisation We value transferable skills and real-world experience as much as formal qualifications. Benefits 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays, along with Christmas closure EV car scheme available This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Applicants must demonstrate the right to work in the UK. Applications close at midnight on the closing date. #J-18808-Ljbffr