Average Payroll Associate salary in Reading

We are seeking an experienced Payroll SME. This role is responsible for providing expert-level knowledge and guidance on all aspects of payroll processing, compliance, and systems. The Payroll SME will ensure accurate and timely payroll delivery, act as a key resource for complex payroll-related queries and projects as well as support on a project to implement new software.What you’ll be doing as a Payroll SMESupporting the delivery of a major HR and payroll system upgrade, ensuring seamless transition and minimal business disruption.Completing the in-house monthly internal payroll activities, adhering to internal and external compliance and controls.Working with the wider payroll team to ensure accurate end-to-end payroll processing for employees.Provide training to the Payroll HR Coordinators on payroll processes and the wider People Services Team when processes are created or changed.Work with internal and external stakeholders to complete a change impact assessment before making improvements.Support internal and external audits by providing required payroll data and documentation and answering queries.Prioritising and completing incoming work, handling highly confidential information with integrity.Ensuring policies and processes are up to date and working with Pay and Benefits Manager to ensure changes affecting payroll are enacted, communicated to the wider team and associated documentation updated.Base location: Hybrid - Reading.Working hours: 36 hours, Monday to Friday.What you should bring to the roleTo thrive in this role, the essential criteria you’ll need are:Extensive experience working in a large UK Payroll team.Experience in using payroll systems.Excellent communication and customer service skills.Attention to detail and accuracy.Additional skills and experiences would be great to have/bring:Certificate in Payroll Practice.Chartered Institute of Personnel Development (CIPD) or equivalent professional qualification or HR knowledge.BA in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources.Experience of Success Factors.What’s in it for you?Competitive salary up to £45,000 per annum, depending on experience.Annual Leave - 26 days holiday per year, increasing to 30 with the length of service (plus bank holidays)Performance-related pay plan directly linked to company performance measures and targets.Generous Pension Scheme through AON.Access to lots of benefits to help you take care of you and your family’s health and wellbeing, and your finances – from annual health MOTs and access to physiotherapy and counselling, to Cycle to Work schemes, shopping vouchers and life assurance.Find out more about our benefits and perks (Please note different T&Cs apply if on secondment)Who are we?We’re the UK’s largest water and wastewater company, with more than 16 million customers relying on us every day to supply water for their taps and toilets. We want to build a better future for all, helping our customers, communities, people, and the planet to thrive. It’s a big job and we’ve got a long way to go, so we need help from passionate and skilled people, committed to making a difference and getting us to where we want to be in the years and decades to come.Learn more about our purpose and valuesWorking at Thames WaterThames Water is a unique, rewarding, and diverse place to work, where every day you can make a difference, yet no day is the same. As part of our family, you’ll enjoy meaningful career opportunities, flexible working arrangements and excellent benefits.If you’re looking for a sustainable and successful career where you can make a daily difference to millions of people’s lives while helping to protect the world of water for future generations, we’ll be here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can build a better future for our customers, our region, and our planet.Real purpose, real support, real opportunities. Come and join the Thames Water family. Why choose us? Learn more.We’re committed to being a great, diverse, and inclusive place to work. We welcome applications from everyone and want to ensure you feel supported throughout the recruitment process. If you need any adjustments, whether that’s extra time, accessible formats, or anything else just let us know, we’re here to help and support.When a crisis happens, we all rally around to support our customers. As part of Team Thames, you’ll have the opportunity to sign up to support our customers on the frontline as an ambassador. Full training will be given for what is undoubtedly an incredibly rewarding experience. It’s also a great opportunity to learn more about our business and meet colleagues.Disclaimer: due to the high volume of applications we receive, we may close the advert earlier than the advertised date, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

We are seeking a Payroll Specialist to provide end to end payroll knowledge within the Engineering sector across BAU, compliance and multiple systems. This will be a pivotal role within payroll delivery, supporting queries and contributing to any payroll transformation. Client DetailsOur ClientWell established, national organisation, trading for over 20+ years Numerous sites across the south of England, head officed in ReadingLarge, close-knit structure Collaborative and structured environment Strong payroll presenceDescriptionPayroll SpecialistDeliver monthly in-house payroll activities in line with compliance and control requirements (7,000 + employees) Support accurate end-to-end payroll processing in collaboration with the wider team.Contribute to the successful implementation of HR and payroll system upgrades, ensuring minimal disruption.Assess and support process improvements, including conducting change impact assessments.Maintain compliance with internal policies, regulatory requirements, and audit standards.Provide payroll data, documentation, and responses for internal and external audits.Deliver training and guidance on payroll processes to HR and payroll colleagues.Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders on payroll-related activities and changes.Manage and prioritise workload effectively while handling confidential information with integrity.Ensure payroll policies and procedures remain up to date and changes are communicated and implemented.ProfilePayroll SpecialistProven expertise in payroll management (end to end exposure is essential) Strong knowledge of payroll systems and relevant software.Familiarity with payroll legislation and compliance requirements in the UK.Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail.Effective communication and stakeholder management abilities.A proactive and solution-oriented approach to challenges.Job OfferPayroll SpecialistSalary offering: £42,000 - £47,000 per annum (dependent on experience) Hybrid working: Typically 1x per week on site at the Reading office (Berkshire) 26 days annual leave + Bank Holidays (increasing with length of service) 2x employee pension contributions (up to 12%) Health cash plan Life Assurance - death in service 8x annual salary Parking on siteEasy access via public transport Enhanced maternity and paternity leave

The EMEA Payroll Specialist will play a key role in managing payroll operations across multiple countries, ensuring compliance with local regulations and delivering accurate, timely payments. This temporary opportunity in Reading is perfect for someone with expertise in payroll within the Technology and Telecoms industry.Client DetailsThe employer is a well-established organisation operating within the technology and telecoms sector. With a strong presence in the market, this medium-sized company is committed to delivering innovative solutions and ensuring operational excellence across all departments.DescriptionProcess payroll for employees across multiple EMEA countries accurately and on time.Ensure compliance with local tax regulations and statutory requirements.Collaborate with internal teams to gather and verify payroll data.Manage payroll-related queries and resolve discrepancies promptly.Prepare and submit payroll reports as required by the organisation and local authorities.Support audits by providing necessary documentation and information.Maintain up-to-date knowledge of payroll legislation and industry best practices.Contribute to process improvements and efficiency initiatives in payroll operations.ProfileA successful EMEA Payroll Specialist should have:Strong knowledge of payroll processes and compliance requirements in EMEA countries.Proficiency in payroll systems and software.Attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy in all tasks.Excellent organisational and time management skills.Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams.Job OfferHourly rate between £198 and £220, based on experience and qualifications.Temporary role offering flexibility with two days per week in the office.Opportunity to work in a well-regarded organisation within the technology and telecoms sector.Professional and collaborative working environment.Reading office location If you are an experienced EMEA Payroll Specialist based in Reading and looking for an exciting temporary role, we encourage you to apply today.