Payroll Controls and Compliance Associate Director

We are recruiting on behalf of a leading professional services organisation for a Payroll Controls and Compliance Associate Director to join their national payroll function. This is a senior-level role with a strong focus on governance, risk management, and continuous improvement. You will play a key role in ensuring payroll operations are delivered in line with current legislation, internal controls, and best practice standards. Working closely with senior stakeholders, you will help shape and strengthen payroll compliance frameworks while supporting teams across multiple locations. What’s on Offer: Job Type: Full-time, permanent Location:Manchester Salary: £50,000 – £55,000 per annum  Key Responsibilities Support the development and maintenance of payroll controls and compliance frameworks Monitor and mitigate risks associated with payroll service delivery Maintain and manage risk registers and incident reporting processes Ensure payroll teams are aligned with current legislation, policies, and procedures Review compliance across the payroll function and address areas of concern Lead on payroll incident investigations and implement corrective actions Identify weaknesses in processes and recommend improvements Drive continuous improvement initiatives across payroll operations Collaborate with stakeholders across multiple teams and locations Provide leadership and support to payroll controls & compliance team members  Skills & Experience Proven experience in a senior payroll role Strong understanding of payroll compliance, controls, and risk management Experience designing and implementing control frameworks Knowledge of payroll legislation and best practice standards Experience investigating payroll incidents and implementing solutions Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills Strong communication skills with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels Experience working within a multi-site or national organisation (desirable)  Key Attributes Strategic thinker with a proactive approach to risk management Detail oriented with strong organisational skills Confident decision maker with the ability to influence change Collaborative and team focused mindset Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment  How to Apply If you are an experienced payroll professional looking to step into a strategic, high-impact role, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV to apply. If you know someone suitable for this role, share the word and through our referral scheme receive up to £250! for full details on all Permanent, Temporary and Contract career opportunities we are actively seeking candidates for. Recruiting on the basis of Talent, we are committed to supporting and promoting diversity in the workplace and consider all applications. Any salary advertised is for search purposes only. If you have not heard from us within 7 days you will have not been successful on this occasion, however, we would welcome your application for alternative vacancies