Payroll and Pension Manager

University of Wolverhampton - Finance Department

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Payroll and Pensions Manager to lead the delivery of accurate, compliant, and timely payroll and pension services. You will oversee end-to-end monthly payroll, manage multiple pension schemes, ensure statutory returns are completed, and maintain robust controls that support financial integrity. Acting as the organisation’s subject matter expert, you will advise HR, Finance, and senior leaders, while driving continual improvement across processes and systems. This is an ideal role for a detail focused professional who can balance operational excellence with strategic thinking.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the full monthly payroll and pensions cycle, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely payments.
• Oversee administration of Defined Benefit and Defined Contribution schemes, including autoenrollment, contributions, salary sacrifice, and regulatory reporting.
• Provide expert advice on payroll legislation, HMRC requirements, and pension regulations.
• Maintain, reconcile, and audit payroll records in alignment with financial ledgers.
• Manage yearend processes, statutory returns, and audit activity.
• Strengthen internal controls and support continuous improvement of payroll systems and workflows.
• Provide guidance to colleagues and stakeholders on payroll policies and pension matters.
• Lead, develop, and coach the payroll and pensions team.

About You

• Significant experience managing complex payrolls in a multisite or medium/large organisation.
• Strong technical knowledge of PAYE, NI, statutory payments, and pension regulations.
• Experience with DB and DC schemes (e.g., LGPS, TPS, USS).
• High attention to detail with strong legislative interpretation skills.
• Confident using payroll and HR/Finance systems.
• Strong communicator with proven relation shipbuilding ability.
• Leadership experience with a track record of developing teams.
• CIPP or equivalent qualification desirable.

What We Offer

Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive working environment.