Interim Payroll Manager

Focus Group

Interim Payroll Manager overseeing end-to-end UK multi-entity payroll for Focus Group, a technology services company. Managing compliance, reconciliations, pension processing, and a small payroll team.

Posted 8/26/2026contractShoreham-by-Sea • 🇬🇧 United KingdomMid-LevelSeniorWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in managing end-to-end payroll processing, ensuring compliance with UK payroll legislation, and providing leadership to the payroll team. Proficient in using payroll software and handling statutory reporting and reconciliations.

Highest-signal resume keywords

End-To-End Payroll ManagementUK Payroll Legislation KnowledgeCIPHR Payroll Software ExperienceStatutory Reporting ComplianceTeam Management and Support

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

Payroll ProcessingPayroll ReconciliationStatutory PaymentsPension Auto-EnrolmentVariable Pay ManagementAbsence Pay ManagementNational Insurance ThresholdsStatutory Sick Pay (SSP)National Minimum Wage (NMW)Payroll Compliance

Soft Skills

Problem SolvingIndependent WorkEscalation ManagementCommunication

Tools & Technologies

CIPHRSage Payroll Software

Certifications & Qualifications

CIPP Qualification

Industry Keywords

PE-Backed ExperienceMulti-Entity Group PayrollStatutory ReportingHMRC LiaisonEmployee Benefits Management

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Manage end-to-end monthly payroll processing across the group, including starters, leavers, variable pay, absence pay and statutory payments
Own payroll compliance, statutory reporting (RTI/FPS), and liaison with HMRC and pension providers
Manage payroll reconciliations and resolve discrepancies
Oversee pension auto-enrolment and deductions for employee benefits
Provide day-to-day management and support to the payroll team
Act as escalation point for payroll queries from staff and managers
Take ownership of the end-to-end payroll function across the group of companies during the interim period

Requirements

What you’ll need

Proven experience managing payroll for a similar-sized, multi-entity group
Up-to-date knowledge of UK payroll legislation (SSP, NMW, statutory payments, NI thresholds)
Experience with CIPHR and/or Sage payroll software
Confidence to pick up an existing payroll function quickly and work independently from day one
CIPP or equivalent qualification (desirable)
PE-backed or group/holding company experience (desirable)
Immediate availability to start

Benefits

Comp & perks

Competitive day rate