Interim Payroll Manager (SD Worx) - Contract

Interim UK Payroll Manager (SD Worx) | 3-5 Month | Contract Hybrid - Central London | Immediate Start

Lead payroll for a global market-leading manufacturer during a critical transformation phase. We’re partnering with a major global manufacturing organisation to appoint a high-calibre Interim UK Payroll Manager for a 3–5 month contract assignment. This is a hands-on, high-impact role where you’ll take full ownership of UK payroll operations and play a key role in ensuring stability, compliance, and continuity.

Crucially, you must have strong experience with SD Worx payroll systems.

Why this role stands out Immediate impact – step into a business-critical function from day one Scale & complexity – large, multi-entity UK payroll environment Autonomy – full ownership of payroll delivery and stakeholder engagement Visibility – work closely with senior Finance & HR leadership Defined scope – clear 3–5 month assignment with tangible outcomes

You will take end-to-end ownership of the UK payroll function, ensuring accurate and compliant delivery while stabilising processes and supporting ongoing improvements.

This is a hands-on interim role, not oversight only. You’ll be in the detail, solving problems and delivering outcomes.

Key Responsibilities - UK Payroll Manager Own and deliver end-to-end UK payroll (high-volume, complex environment) Lead payroll processing using SD Worx (essential) Ensure full compliance with HMRC, PAYE, NIC, pensions & statutory requirements Manage payroll deadlines, reconciliations, and reporting cycles Act as the go-to expert for payroll across Finance, HR, and external partners Identify issues quickly and implement practical solutions Strengthen controls and support audit readiness Drive process improvements and efficiency where possible Support or lead any ongoing payroll projects / system optimisation

What we’re looking for Proven track record as an Interim Payroll Manager / Senior Payroll Lead Strong hands-on UK payroll delivery experience SD Worx system expertise (this is a must-have) Experience in large, complex or multi-entity payroll environments Ability to hit the ground running with minimal onboarding Available to start immediately or at short notice Manufacturing, engineering, or industrial sector background Experience in payroll stabilisation or transformation environments Exposure to process improvement or system optimisation work Delivery-focused and calm under pressure in deadline-driven environments Ability to build credibility quickly with senior stakeholders

Location & Contract Details Central London (Hybrid – 2 days onsite) 3–5 month contract

Apply now If you’re an experienced SD Worx Payroll Manager available at short notice and looking for a high-impact interim assignment, we’d like to hear from you.