Interim Payroll Manager (3–6 months)

About the Company and the Role

Our client is a global organisation with a complex international footprint, operating across multiple European and international jurisdictions. Due to an interim requirement within the HR function, they are seeking an experienced Interim Payroll Manager to provide hands-on leadership and operational stability across a diverse payroll landscape.
This role sits within the HR department and carries responsibility for multiple international payrolls alongside full ownership of UK benefits administration. The successful candidate will manage a small payroll team, ensure accurate and timely payroll delivery, and act as a senior point of expertise during this interim period. The role is office-based in East London for 3–4 days per week and requires someone who can start immediately.

Key Responsibilities

Take full responsibility for the end-to-end management of payrolls across Sweden, the Netherlands, Denmark, Geneva, Spain, Italy, Taiwan and three UK payrolls.
Lead, support and manage the Payroll Officer and Payroll Administrator, ensuring all payroll processing is delivered accurately and on time.
Oversee all UK benefit schemes, including SAYE, private medical insurance, permanent health insurance, corporate gym membership, childcare and cycle-to-work schemes.
Act as the primary point of contact for payroll-related queries from HR, Finance and external providers.
Ensure compliance with relevant local legislation, tax and reporting requirements across all jurisdictions.
Identify and resolve payroll issues efficiently, maintaining strong controls and documentation throughout.

Candidate Profile

Proven experience in a Payroll Manager or Senior Payroll role within a complex, multi-country environment.
Strong working knowledge of UK payroll and benefits administration, with exposure to international payrolls highly desirable.
Experience managing and developing payroll team members in a hands-on capacity.
Comfortable operating in an interim, delivery-focused role with the ability to hit the ground running.
Strong attention to detail, clear communication skills and the confidence to work with senior stakeholders.
Immediately available and able to commit to an on-site presence in East London 3–4 days per week.

Location: East London (office-based 3–4 days per week)
Contract: Interim, 3–6 months
Compensation: £350–£375 per day (inside IR35)