Job Description

Interim UK Payroll Manager | £25–£30 per hour | Hybrid (2–3 days in office) | 3-Month Contract

Why join us

This is a business that values people and recognises the importance of getting the fundamentals right. An unexpected absence has created an immediate need for an experienced payroll professional who can step in, take ownership, and provide stability during a critical period.

You'll join a collaborative finance team that needs an expert who can confidently manage payroll from day one while helping strengthen processes for the future. Alongside maintaining business-as-usual operations, you'll have the opportunity to leave a lasting impact through process documentation and supporting upcoming HR systems projects.

How you'll make an impact

• Take full ownership of the UK payroll process for approximately 300 employees.
• Deliver accurate and timely monthly payroll processing using ADP.
• Act as the primary point of contact for payroll queries across the business.
• Ensure all payroll compliance requirements are met, including statutory and year-end obligations.
• Manage seasonal payroll activities, including P11D submissions and related reporting.
• Identify and resolve payroll issues quickly and independently, maintaining business continuity.
• Create clear documentation for payroll processes that are currently undocumented.
• Support knowledge transfer to internal stakeholders, reducing key-person dependency.
• Assist with payroll-related activities linked to the upcoming Rippling HR system rollout.
• Provide confidence and stability to the finance team through expert payroll leadership during the interim period.

Why you're a great fit

Essential

• Proven experience managing end-to-end UK payroll.
• Strong hands-on knowledge of ADP payroll systems.
• Previous interim or contract experience within payroll functions.
• Ability to work independently with minimal onboarding or supervision.
• Strong understanding of UK payroll legislation, compliance requirements and statutory reporting.
• Experience managing payroll queries and stakeholder relationships across a business.
• Excellent attention to detail and problem-solving skills.

Desirable

• Experience documenting payroll processes and controls.
• Exposure to HRIS or payroll system implementation projects.
• Experience supporting Rippling or similar HR platforms.

What you'll get in return

You'll join a supportive and pragmatic team that values expertise and trusts people to do what they do best. This is an opportunity to make an immediate difference, take ownership of a critical function, and help create lasting improvements beyond the initial contract.

In addition, you'll receive:

• £25–£30 per hour, depending on experience.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Hybrid working, ideally 3 days per week in the office 
• A streamlined one-stage interview process and quick decision-making.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

We welcome applications from all qualified candidates who believe they meet the role requirements. We’re committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and we’ll provide any reasonable adjustments you may need throughout the recruitment process.

Apply

If this sounds like you, apply now or contact jackie@core3.co.uk / 0117 213 0300.

Visit www.core3.co.uk to view all our finance opportunities.