Payroll Manager

Role overview

An established multi-site business is seeking a skilled Payroll Manager to join its Carmarthenshire head office in Carmarthen on a permanent, full-time basis. This is a hands-on position for someone who takes pride in precision, compliance, and well-structured payroll processes. You will work alongside Finance, HR, and operational leaders, while personally owning the full payroll cycle from start to finish rather than managing a team.

The role offers autonomy, the chance to strengthen payroll controls and systems, and the opportunity to support a reliable payroll operation that pays employees correctly and on schedule.

Key responsibilities

• Take full responsibility for end-to-end payroll processing across weekly and monthly payroll runs, including both recurring and one-off changes.
• Handle PAYE, NIC, pensions, and statutory payments accurately and in line with HMRC rules.
• Prepare and submit RTI returns and reconcile payroll reporting outputs.
• Maintain payroll records in a GDPR-compliant manner and protect confidential employee data.
• Manage year-end payroll activity, including P60s, P11Ds, and related statutory reporting.
• Serve as the main contact for payroll-related questions and resolve issues quickly and professionally.
• Work directly with pension providers to ensure deductions are correct and submissions are completed on time.
• Assess payroll processes, controls, and systems and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Assist with internal and external audits by providing accurate payroll information within required timescales.
• Support continuous improvement by working collaboratively with Finance, HR, and Operations to improve efficiency and accuracy.

What the employer is looking for

• Demonstrable experience using Sage Payroll, along with advanced Excel skills.
• Strong understanding of UK payroll legislation and statutory obligations.
• Excellent accuracy, analytical thinking, and comfort working with large datasets.
• A proactive, well-organised, and discreet approach, with the ability to work independently and with cross-functional teams.
• Experience in a busy, practical environment where ownership of a payroll service is important.

Additional information

This is a permanent full-time opportunity based in Carmarthen, Wales, with a salary of £35,000 to £40,000 per annum. It suits a payroll professional who values accountability, precision, and continuous improvement.

CIPP training would be beneficial, although experienced QBE candidates with strong payroll knowledge are also encouraged to apply.

For a confidential discussion, contact Emma Lewis on 01792 642 042.

Terms and conditions

This opportunity is advertised by Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited in its capacity as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and as an employment business for the supply of temporary workers. Submission of an application means acceptance of the organisation’s terms and conditions, privacy policy, and disclaimers.