HR & Payroll Lead

HR and Payroll Lead
Salary: £41,000 - £47,000
Location: Hybrid - 4 days on-site, 1 day remote, Merseyside
Contract Type: Permanent
Start Date: As soon as possible

An established higher education institution is seeking an experienced HR and Payroll Lead to support its in-house HR team during a period of operational transition and system change. This is a key operational role for a detail-oriented professional with a strong background in payroll, HR systems, and process improvement. You will play a central role in maintaining efficient HR and payroll services across a complex workforce, which includes both substantive staff and a high volume of casual and visiting professionals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage and support monthly payroll operations, including processing for casual and variable-hour contracts.

• Collaborate with Payroll and Pensions Officers to ensure accurate and timely payments, including separate pension runs.

• Provide guidance on HR policies and procedures to managers and employees.

• Support the implementation and optimisation of a new HRIS, contributing to process redesign and efficiency improvements.

• Supervise and support two HR Administrators, providing leadership and oversight.

• Coordinate and validate workforce data across departments to ensure accuracy in reporting and payroll inputs.

Candidate Profile:

• Demonstrable experience managing or supporting complex payroll operations.

• Familiarity with HR systems and involvement in HRIS transitions or implementations.

• High attention to detail and accuracy.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to advise and support staff at all levels.

• CIPD Level 5 qualification or equivalent experience. Candidates without formal qualifications must demonstrate substantial practical expertise.

• Experience in higher education is not essential; candidates from other sectors with relevant skills and adaptability are welcome.

Application Process:

Applications are requested as soon as possible, with initial screening calls expected to begin early next week. Interviews will be coordinated shortly thereafter.