Payroll Manager
Location: Bath, Somerset
Hours: Part-time (approximately 24 hours per week) or full-time considered. For part-time candidates, hours can be worked flexibly across the payroll cycle, with workload typically increasing during the final payroll week of the month and reducing during earlier weeks.
Work Pattern: Office-based initially, with potential hybrid working after successful probation.
About OCL Accountancy
OCL Accountancy is a well-established and growing accountancy practice based in Bath. Since 1988, we have been supporting owner-managed businesses, individuals and families with accountancy, tax, payroll and advisory services.
We pride ourselves on providing a professional, responsive and personal service while maintaining a friendly and supportive working environment. We use a range of cloud-based accounting systems, including Xero, QuickBooks and Sage, alongside our core practice management software.
The Opportunity
We are seeking an experienced Payroll Manager to take ownership of our well-established payroll function, managing payroll services for approximately 180 clients across a varied portfolio ranging from director-only payrolls to larger multi-employee schemes.
This is a client-facing role requiring excellent technical payroll knowledge, strong organisational skills and the ability to work independently while maintaining high levels of service and compliance.
The payroll function currently covers approximately 180 payrolls, including around 90 director-only payrolls. Workload naturally fluctuates throughout the month, with payroll activity concentrated towards month end. During quieter periods there may be opportunities to support other areas of the practice, depending on experience and contracted hours. Our payroll bureau software is IRIS Staffology.
This role would suit either:
- An experienced payroll professional seeking a part-time position and capable of managing the payroll function independently with minimal supervision; or
- A candidate seeking a near full-time role who is willing and able to support other areas of the practice during quieter payroll periods, including bookkeeping, accounts preparation and company secretarial work.
Please note: previous payroll experience within a UK accountancy practice is essential. Candidates whose experience is primarily within industry payroll environments will not be suitable unless they also have substantial and relevant accountancy practice experience.
Key Responsibilities
Payroll
- Managing payroll services for approximately 180 client payrolls.
- Processing weekly, fortnightly, four-weekly and monthly payrolls.
- Submitting RTI returns and ensuring ongoing compliance with HMRC requirements.
- Calculating and processing statutory payments, including SSP, SMP and other statutory entitlements.
- Managing workplace pension administration and auto-enrolment compliance.
- Liaising with pension providers and completing declarations and re-declarations of compliance.
- Responding promptly and professionally to client payroll queries by telephone, email and online portals.
- Managing payroll workflows, deadlines and diary schedules to ensure timely delivery of services.
- Maintaining payroll records and ensuring compliance with current legislation and best practice.
- Producing payroll reports and management information as required.
- Supporting payroll billing and associated client administration.
- Providing assistance and guidance to colleagues on payroll-related matters where required.
- Knowledge of CIS reporting, including EPS claims for suffered CIS deductions and preparation of CIS300 monthly returns, would be advantageous.
Additional Practice Support (for Full-Time Candidates)
Depending on experience and business needs, responsibilities may also include:
- Bookkeeping using cloud accounting software.
- Preparation of dormant company accounts.
- Assisting with the preparation of sole trader, partnership and small company accounts.
- Assisting with VAT returns.
- Company secretarial administration.
- General accounts and practice administration support.
About You
Essential Requirements
- Previous payroll experience within a UK accountancy practice.
- Strong working knowledge of PAYE, National Insurance, RTI reporting and payroll legislation.
- Experience managing workplace pensions and auto-enrolment requirements.
- Ability to work independently, prioritise workload and manage deadlines effectively.
- Excellent client communication and relationship management skills.
- High levels of accuracy and attention to detail.
- Strong IT skills and confidence using payroll and accounting software.
- A proactive approach to keeping up to date with payroll legislation and regulatory changes.
Desirable
- CIPP qualification or equivalent payroll qualification.
- Experience using IRIS Staffology software.
- Bookkeeping or general practice experience.
- Experience using Xero, Sage and QuickBooks.
- Knowledge of CIS compliance and reporting.
- Experience managing a portfolio of clients within an accountancy practice.
Working Arrangements
The role will be fully office-based during the initial six-month period to support training, integration and client service requirements.
Following successful completion of this period, hybrid working arrangements may be considered.
Salary & Benefits
- Flexible part-time or full-time opportunities.
- Annual bonus scheme.
- Company-funded social events.
- Supportive and friendly working environment.
- Long-term career opportunity within an established and growing practice.
- On-street parking available.
Benefits:
- Store discount
- Work from home
Application question(s):
- Are you able to commute to our office location in Bath (BA2)?
- Do you have any experience with IRIS payroll software?
Experience:
- Payroll experience in an accountancy practice environment: 3 years (preferred)
Work authorisation:
- United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person
