Payroll Specialist

Job details

Posted Monday 19 October 2026
Location Reading
Job type Permanent
Discipline Payroll
Reference 4307
Recruiter Name Zoe Jones

Payroll Specialist 6 Months – Theale – Hybrid - £28,000 - £35,000 per annum (depending on experience)
 

About the Client

Our client is an established organisation based in Theale and they need someone who can join the team for 6 Months initially ASAP!

About the Job

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Payroll Specialist to take ownership of the monthly payroll function during a six-month assignment. Working closely with senior leadership, Finance and HR, you will oversee payroll operations, manage complex commission arrangements and play an important role in transitioning to a new payroll system.

Duties will include:

  • Taking responsibility for the complete monthly payroll cycle, ensuring employees receive accurate payments within agreed timescales.
  • Managing payroll amendments, including new joiners, departures, salary adjustments, pensions and statutory entitlements.
  • Liaising with senior stakeholders to calculate and verify commission payments, incentive schemes and guaranteed earnings.
  • Reviewing variable remuneration arrangements to ensure different commission rates and payment conditions are applied correctly.
  • Preparing payroll reconciliations and management information for authorisation.
  • Overseeing HMRC requirements, pension obligations and associated payroll compliance.
  • Responding to employee pay enquiries professionally, maintaining discretion and confidentiality.
  • Assisting with the introduction of a new payroll platform, including transferring information, checking accuracy and conducting test runs.
  • Collaborating with HR to enhance payroll administration and improve the flow of employee information.
  • Providing additional assistance to the Finance Director and identifying opportunities to strengthen existing procedures.
  • Maintaining comprehensive payroll documentation and effective internal controls.

About the Successful Applicant

You will have proven experience managing UK payroll independently, with sound knowledge of PAYE, National Insurance, statutory payments and pensions. Experience handling complex commissions and payroll system migrations is essential, alongside strong Excel skills. You will be organised, detail-oriented and confident communicating with senior stakeholders.

What You Will Receive in Return

Working within a supportive and collaborative team, you will gain valuable exposure to senior stakeholders and play a key role in improving payroll processes and implementing a new system. This is an excellent opportunity to apply your expertise, broaden your experience and make an immediate impact.