Fiander ETL
At Fiander ETL Accountants in Southampton, our people come first. We pride ourselves on a culture that values looking after one another as well as our clients. Our advice and services are designed to deliver maximum benefit by helping clients manage their businesses and financial affairs more efficiently, cost-effectively and tax-efficiently, allowing them to retain more of what they earn.
As an independent, director-led practice, we work with business owners and company directors at every stage of their business journey, from start-up and growth to consolidation, succession and exit planning. We also provide personal financial and tax planning advice, helping clients achieve long-term security and peace of mind for themselves and their families.
Being part of the ETL GLOBAL group gives us access to extensive resources both in the UK and internationally, enhancing the support and opportunities we can offer to our clients and our people.
Role Purpose
The Payroll Manager is responsible for leading and developing the firm's payroll function to deliver an exceptional service to clients. Reporting directly to the department's leadership team and working closely with Client Managers and colleagues across the wider practice, the Payroll Manager ensures payroll services are delivered accurately, efficiently, and in full compliance with current legislation.
The Payroll Manager will oversee the day-to-day operation of the payroll team, supported by dedicated Payroll Supervisors and, where required, colleagues from across the firm. They will be responsible for maintaining strong client relationships, ensuring accurate and timely billing, identifying opportunities to enhance service delivery, and contributing to the continued growth and success of the payroll function.
This is a management role for a proactive, client-focused professional who takes pride in delivering outstanding service, developing their team, driving continuous improvement, and playing an active role in supporting the wider objectives and ambitions of the business.
Key responsibilities
The responsibilities of the Payroll Manager will include:
- Leading the delivery of an accurate, efficient, and compliant end-to-end payroll service for a portfolio of clients across weekly, fortnightly, monthly, and annual payroll cycles.
- Managing and overseeing payroll processing using Staffology, ensuring all payroll deadlines, statutory requirements, and client expectations are consistently met.
- Acting as a key point of contact for clients, building strong relationships and providing proactive advice, guidance, and solutions to payroll-related queries.
- Supporting the growth of the payroll function by identifying opportunities to introduce additional services, improve client engagement, and enhance the overall client experience.
- Working closely with Client Managers and the wider practice team to identify prospective payroll opportunities and support the transition of new clients into the payroll service.
- Leading the onboarding process for new payroll clients, ensuring effective planning, accurate data collection, appropriate system setup, and a smooth transition into ongoing service delivery.
- Providing CIS compliance support and administration services for relevant clients.
- Overseeing auto-enrolment administration, pension processing, and related compliance requirements.
- Ensuring all relevant payroll submissions and statutory reporting are completed accurately and on time, including submissions to HMRC and other regulatory bodies.
- Managing client administration processes, including accurate and timely billing through the firm's systems.
- Working collaboratively with Client Managers and other departments across the practice to provide payroll expertise and support on PAYE, payroll, and employment-related queries.
- Leading, coaching, and supporting Payroll Supervisors and wider team members to develop capability and maintain high standards of service delivery.
- Monitoring workloads, deadlines, and team performance to ensure effective delivery of client services.
- Continuously reviewing payroll processes, systems, and workflows to improve efficiency, quality, and client experience.
- Keeping up to date with changes in payroll legislation, HMRC requirements, and industry best practice, ensuring the firm remains compliant.
- Taking ownership of personal objectives and contributing positively to team goals and the wider success of the firm.
Key relationships
- Clients
- Client Managers
- Trainees
- Colleagues in other teams
- Directors
Person Specification
The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate:
- Proven experience managing payroll services within a payroll bureau, accountancy practice, or busy internal payroll environment, with strong knowledge of UK payroll legislation and compliance requirements.
- Experience using Staffology would be advantageous.
- Strong client relationship skills, with the ability to provide proactive advice, support client onboarding, and manage successful payroll transitions.
- Experience leading, coaching, and supporting team members to deliver high-quality client services.
- A commercial and proactive approach, with an understanding of client service delivery, billing, retention, and business growth.
- Excellent organisation, attention to detail, and the ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining accuracy and compliance.
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills, with the confidence to work collaboratively with clients and colleagues across the firm.
- Confidence using Microsoft 365 and digital systems, with a commitment to continuous improvement and professional development.
- Personal values that align with the Fiander ETL values of Opportunity, Fairness, Transparency, and Accountability.
Benefits:
- Additional leave
- Casual dress
- Company events
- Company pension
- Free flu jabs
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Referral programme
- Sick pay
Work Location: In person
