Payroll Specialist - London



We are seeking a
Payroll Specialist for a
6-month fixed-term contract within a leading
consumer retail business based in
Central London . In this role, you will be responsible for delivering payroll operations across the group while supporting the transition to a new payroll system (
Dayforce ) and updated processes. The role covers payroll for several thousand colleagues across the
UK, Europe, North America, and Asia Pacific .




Key Responsibilities:

• Support the Global Payroll Manager in the global rollout of the Dayforce system, leading training and transition efforts for the payroll team.


• Champion a culture of continuous improvement, reviewing processes, systems, and ways of working, and incorporating external best practices. This may include team restructuring.


• Provide critical support for new business initiatives that impact payroll processes and systems.


• Lead the update of payroll team policies and procedures to reflect the new system and processes.


• Manage relationships with international payroll bureaus to ensure service delivery, compliance with local regulations, and optimal value to the Group.


• Ensure the team's learning and development needs are met through goal setting, coaching, and constructive feedback.


• Oversee team workload, identify future resourcing needs, and support recruitment efforts.


• Ensure effective onboarding of new team members.


• Support the review and implementation of an enhanced benefits offering.


• Prepare payroll-related journal entries and assist in reconciling payroll balance sheet accounts.

About You:

• 10+ years of payroll experience in a large, international organisation.


• Proven people management skills with a track record of developing teams and individuals.


• Comfortable working in a dynamic environment, managing competing priorities, and driving change.


• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels.


• Background in retail or hospitality (high-volume environments preferred).


• Experience with global payroll operations.


• Recent, hands-on experience with the Dayforce platform.

To be considered for the role, candidates must be available to start the role immediately.



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