HR & Payroll Manager

Ivy Rock Partners is supporting a forward-thinking Multi-Academy Trust in their search for an experienced and proactive Payroll Manager This is a unique opportunity to join a highly values-led organisation that is transforming the lives of young people through education, with a growing network of primary and secondary schools across South East London and Kent.

As the Payroll Manager, you’ll play a pivotal role in leading the delivery of high-quality HR operations and payroll services across the Trust. Reporting to the Director of HR, you’ll be the go-to expert for transactional HR matters and will act as the main liaison with the outsourced payroll provider, ensuring compliance and accuracy throughout.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is process-savvy, detail-oriented, and passionate about education and staff wellbeing. Initially, you will work independently, with a future opportunity to build and lead a small team as the central HR function evolves.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver efficient HR operations including recruitment administration, onboarding, contract changes and leavers.
• Oversee payroll processes and act as the key contact for the outsourced payroll provider.
• Provide guidance to schools on HR and payroll queries, maintaining a consistent and compliant approach.
• Develop clear process documentation and contribute to systems and workflow improvements.
• Ensure compliance with employment legislation, HMRC requirements, and pension scheme regulations (LGPS/TPS).
• Champion a positive culture aligned with the Trust’s values of trust, kindness, and endeavour.

About You:

• Proven experience in both transactional HR and payroll oversight.
• Comfortable interpreting payroll data and liaising with third-party providers.
• Highly organised, with the ability to work independently and meet tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience working with an outsourced payroll provider is also desirable
• Strong understanding of UK employment law, GDPR, and payroll legislation.
• Experience within the education sector or a Multi-Academy Trust (desirable).

Please get in touch with Megan Hunter for a confidential conversation about the role.