Payroll Workstream Lead

We have created a new position for a Payroll Workstream Lead to lead the configuration, testing, and deployment of our new payroll systems. This role is critical to ensuring compliance, data accuracy, and seamless integration with our HR and Finance systems, and will eventually become a permanent part of our in-house payroll team

This role is essential to supporting our team and providing an excellent colleague experience. Ensuring the payroll system meets its live date will guarantee that accurate information is provided on time and within budget. This will empower our colleagues to make informed decisions and ensure the effective operation of our Payroll and HR systems.

The Payroll Workstream Lead will be specifically accountable for:

Managing project timelines

System Design/Configuration & Testing including conducting User Acceptance Testing (UAT), training end-users

Data Migration & Mapping

Designing streamlined workflow

Parallel Runs

Compliance & Process Design

Training & Documentation

In practice, this role ensures Wickes maintains high standards in Compliance & Risk Management: Adhering to statutory requirements (e.g., taxes, pensions) and identifying project risks. Operational Excellence: Meeting audit requirements, mitigating evolving risks, and ensuring the effective Implementation of the new Payroll system.

What we’re looking for:

You’ll have a good level of education including competency in Maths and written English. You’ll have proven experience in payroll, payroll implementation, system upgrades, or significant transformation projects. We’d expect the ideal candidate to have around 7+ years (or equivalent) of experience in an in-house payroll or an outsourced payroll provider. As well as this you’ll:

Have excellent communication skills, both written and verbal

Effectively communicate with employees, managers, and senior stakeholders

Have strong interpersonal skills and ability to build strong relationships

Have strong stakeholder management skills

Have strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Be able to identify and analyse complex issues, develop creative solutions, and implement effective resolutions.

Have strong project management skills with the ability to meet strict deadlines.

Have advanced Excel and Google Docs skills for data analysis, mapping, and reconciliation

Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities.

High level of integrity and discretion in handling sensitive and confidential information

Possess a deep understanding and experience of payroll (e.g. statutory payments, pension/auto-enrolment, manual calculations) and HMRC regulations

What can we offer you?

You’ll be supported with fantastic learning and development and have the opportunity to grow and develop your career with us.

We’ll also equip you with a benefits package that includes:

Competitive bonus

Save-as-you-earn scheme

Private Medical and Life Assurance

Enhanced contributory pension scheme

Colleague discount

Discount platform including savings and cash back at numerous retailers, savings on gym membership, cycle to work scheme

Our widely recognised wellbeing strategy is something we’re proud of at Wickes. As part of this, we offer a range of health and wellbeing benefits and support, including an Employee Assistance Programme, financial education & loans, and access to parental, menopause and fertility support.

By giving you the support you need to do well at work, and the flexibility to make life work for you. We are giving you a career that doesn’t put your life on hold. Where you can be yourself, do your best work, and make a positive difference every day.

About Us:

Wickes is a multi-channel retailer operating in the home improvement market. With 50 years in industry, Wickes now generates revenue in excess of £1.6bn across 230 stores delivered by 8,000+ colleagues. But it is our culture that is considered our best kept secret; it’s a collaborative, down to earth, fun and inclusive environment where people feel part of a winning team. All our colleagues come from different backgrounds, but what we all have in common is a determination to succeed and a passion for being the best we can be. If that sounds like you, we’ll make you feel right at home.

Please contact us here if you require any adjustments within the application process. If you require any reasonable adjustments at the interview stage you will have an opportunity to inform us when we invite you to interview. Please note, this link is only for reasonable adjustments required - general enquiries, or direct CV applications cannot be accepted via this form