The largest specialist payroll recruiter in the UK

Payroll is a business-critical function — errors in pay, tax calculations, pension contributions, or RTI submissions can result in financial penalties and employee dissatisfaction. A specialist agency understands these risks and can accurately assess candidates’ technical capabilities from the outset.

We maintain an active network of pre-vetted payroll professionals at every level, many of whom are not active on job boards. Our consultants understand the difference between bureau and in-house experience, can evaluate systems knowledge effectively, and use real-time market data to help you benchmark offers competitively.

We are corporate partners with the CIPP, and focus solely on payroll recruitment across all levels. Plus, you only pay once the candidate has started their job!

We recruit across the full payroll function, from Payroll Administrators and Payroll Officers through to Payroll Managers, Heads of Payroll, and Payroll Directors.

This includes both in-house and bureau roles, as well as specialists in areas such as international payroll, pensions administration, reward and benefits, and payroll systems implementation. We also support employers hiring for payroll-adjacent roles where the function sits within wider HR or finance teams.

Whether you need a permanent hire, temporary cover, or a contractor for a specific project, we tailor our approach to each brief. View current vacancies or register a role.

It depends on the role and your requirements, but we typically present a shortlist of qualified candidates within 48 hours of briefing. For temporary and contract positions, we can often have someone in place within a matter of days.

Speed is important, but we never compromise on quality. Every candidate we put forward has been thoroughly vetted against your brief, so you’re not wasting time interviewing people who aren’t the right fit.

Yes, we do. Whether you’re looking to hire a payroll professional on a full-time basis or need cover for maternity leave, assistance during a busy period, or an interim specialist while you search for a permanent hire, our flexible payroll recruitment services are tailored to meet your specific needs

Our process is straightforward and designed to get results quickly. Once you register a vacancy with us, here’s what happens:

• We’ll have an initial consultation to understand your requirements, team culture, and salary expectations
• We search our extensive database of payroll professionals and actively headhunt where needed
• We screen and shortlist candidates, including competency-based interviews and, where appropriate, payroll proficiency assessments
• We present a shortlist of qualified candidates, typically within 48 hours
• We manage the interview process, offer negotiation, and onboarding support

As a specialist payroll recruitment agency, we understand the technical demands of every role we recruit for – from PAYE and pension compliance through to payroll software expertise. That knowledge means we can assess candidates more effectively than a generalist recruiter.

Yes. All of our permanent placements come with a rebate period, giving you peace of mind that if things don’t work out, you’re covered. The specific terms depend on the role and fee structure, so we’d recommend speaking with one of our consultants to discuss the details.

We also take the time to thoroughly assess candidates before they’re put forward, which means our retention rates are consistently strong. We’d rather place the right person once than replace the wrong person twice.

We have two Payroll recruitment offices in the UK – one in London and one in Manchester. However, our specialist recruitment services are not limited to those locations. We actively work with clients up and down the country, so the physical location of your business is not a problem.

A CIPP qualification isn’t a legal requirement to work in payroll, but it’s increasingly valued by employers and can make a real difference to your career prospects and earning potential. The Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals (CIPP) offers qualifications at several levels, from the Level 3 Payroll Technician Certificate for those new to the profession through to the Foundation Degree in Payroll Management for experienced professionals.

Many employers now list CIPP qualifications as desirable and in some cases essential when recruiting for mid-level and senior payroll roles. If you’re looking to stand out in a competitive market, a recognised payroll qualification is one of the most effective ways to do it.

As Corporate Partners of the CIPP, we work closely with the Institute and can advise candidates on which qualifications are most relevant to their career goals.

Payroll salaries in the UK vary significantly depending on your experience, qualifications, location, and the complexity of the role. As a general guide, entry-level Payroll Administrators can expect to earn between £22,000 and £28,000, while experienced Payroll Managers typically command salaries of £45,000 to £65,000. At the senior end, Heads of Payroll and Payroll Directors in London can earn upwards of £80,000 to £100,000 or more.

Salaries also tend to be higher in London and the South East, and for roles that involve international payroll, multi-site operations, or specific software expertise.

For a more detailed breakdown by role, region, and experience level, download our free Payroll Salary Guide 2025/26 – the most comprehensive payroll-focused salary survey on the UK market.

Employers are prioritising candidates with end-to-end payroll experience and strong systems knowledge. Familiarity with established payroll platforms is often essential, and experience with implementations or migrations is particularly valuable.

Beyond technical skills, employers want professionals who can manage stakeholder relationships, handle queries confidently, and stay on top of legislative changes. CIPP qualifications remain highly regarded and can give candidates an edge. Our Payroll Salary Guide 2025/26 includes insight into the specific skills employers are looking for.