Senior Payroll Manager

Sphere Digital RecruitmentTeddingtonreedpublished 09/22/2026
Must-have:Senior

5 Month Contract (extension possible) | Richmond (5 days on-site) | £400 - £530 per day via Umbrella | Real Estate |

Our client is a leading, fast-growing real estate agency, operating over 150 offices across London. Following a recent migration onto ADP, they are looking for an experienced Senior Payroll Manager to bring fresh eyes to their high-volume, commission-based payroll, reviewing processes since the transition and partnering closely with the business to drive improvement.

This is a payroll environment with real complexity; bespoke commission structures tied to tenancy management sit alongside standard salaried pay for over 2,500 employees. The successful candidate will report directly into the Payroll Director and work alongside an internal team, partnering closely Lettings and the People team to ensure correct commission calculations.

The Role

  • Review and assess payroll processes and controls following the recent move to ADP, bringing an independent, experienced perspective
  • Take ownership of a high-volume, commission-heavy payroll, ensuring accuracy and compliance throughout
  • Partner closely with Back Office Lettings on commission calculations tied to tenancy management, and with the People team on wider payroll matters
  • Understand and build on existing processes through a handover with the current contractor
  • Identify and implement process improvements, efficiencies, and stronger controls within the payroll function
  • Manage payroll queries, escalations, and reconciliations to a high standard of accuracy and confidentiality

What We're Looking For

  • Strong, hands-on experience with ADP payroll systems
  • Experience with commission-based payroll
  • Experience managing payrolls of 1,000+ employees
  • Strong understanding of UK payroll legislation, tax, and statutory compliance
  • Comfortable stepping into an existing team and bringing an independent, improvement-focused perspective
  • Able to start at short notice, up to 1-month maximum notice would be considered

This is an urgent requirement with an ASAP start — please apply as soon as possible to be considered.