Payroll Team Leader


Location
London Borough of Lewisham, primarily based at Laurence House, Catford, London, SE6 4RU. Hybrid working approach with regular office and home working.
Hours
Full Time
Salary
£52,269 to £54,360 per annum (PO4). All appointments will be offered at the minimum spinal column point for the grade unless matching current salary with evidential proof.
About the Role
As Payroll Team Leader at the London Borough of Lewisham, you will lead a skilled team of Senior Payroll Officers to ensure accurate and timely payroll processing for approximately 6,500 employees, including 1,500 teaching staff and 8,000 pensioners. You will own the payroll run end-to-end, acting as the expert for complex calculations and queries. Your role involves championing compliance, continuous improvement, and optimising workflows while liaising with HMRC, schools, and partner organisations. You will balance deadlines with quality, interpret evolving legislation, and strengthen Service Level Agreements. This is an opportunity to shape a high-performing, customer-focused payroll function at scale, develop your team, and support an inclusive and diverse workplace. You will drive service excellence, build strong relationships, and lead the payroll function that supports the vibrant and culturally diverse communities of Lewisham.
Benefits
Generous holiday allowance
Local Government Pension Scheme
Flexible working and family friendly policies
Season ticket and bicycle loans
A range of staff discounts including local subsidised gym memberships
Supportive staff networks
Experience
Proven experience in payroll management with expert knowledge of payroll processes and legislation. Experience leading a team and managing complex payroll calculations and queries is essential.
About you
Confident leader with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Excellent organisational abilities, high numeracy, and IT proficiency. Ability to communicate clearly with a range of stakeholders. Customer-focused approach with a commitment to continuous improvement. Able to thrive in a fast-paced environment and champion compliance and quality.
Qualifications
Relevant payroll qualifications and/or demonstrable experience in payroll management are desirable. Commitment to ongoing professional development and keeping up to date with payroll legislation and best practices.





















