Group Payroll Manager

Grafton Group is looking for an experienced and proactive Group Payroll Manager to lead a dedicated team and oversee the payroll operations for around 6,000 employees across the UK and Ireland. This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in the efficiency, accuracy, and compliance of a core business function - while contributing to the wider employee experience across the Group.

At Grafton Group, we understand the value of a well-run payroll function — not just for compliance but for the confidence and trust it builds with our people. This is a chance to lead a capable team, improve how we work, and be part of a business that genuinely cares about doing things well.

If you're looking for a role where you can make a difference and be trusted to get on with the job, we'd love to hear from you.

What you’ll be doing:

●      Leading and developing a team of three payroll professionals

●      Managing monthly payroll processing for approx. 6,000 employees in the UK and Ireland

●      Ensuring compliance with all statutory requirements (HMRC, tax, NI, pensions, etc.)

●      Acting as a key point of contact for payroll escalations, audits, and internal stakeholders

●      Driving process improvements and identifying automation opportunities

●      Collaborating with the HR Systems team to optimise and future-proof payroll systems

●      Producing payroll reports, cost summaries and analysis to inform business decisions

●      Supporting employees and internal teams with queries around payroll, benefits, and deductions

What we’re looking for:

Essential:

●      Demonstrable experience as a Payroll Manager (or equivalent), ideally within a large, multi-site organisation

●      In-depth knowledge of UK payroll legislation

●      Leadership experience with a proven ability to manage, coach, and develop a team

●      A continuous improvement mindset with the ability to drive process and systems enhancements

●      Strong attention to detail and a high level of accuracy

●      Advanced Excel skills and confidence in handling data

Desirable:

●      CIPP or CIPD qualification (or similar)

●      Irish payroll knowledge

Pay & Benefits:

●    Salary range between £50k-£60k and bonus structure

●      Hybrid working: 3 days in our Wythall office, 2 days from home

●      25 days’ annual leave plus bank holidays

●      Pension contribution matching scheme

●      Health cash plan and life assurance (3x salary)

●      Enhanced family leave policies

●      Access to our internal employee benefits platform with retail discounts and perks

●      Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Why Join Grafton Group?

As a leading distributor of building materials and home improvement products, Grafton Group operates across the UK, Ireland, and continental Europe. We have a proud heritage and a reputation for innovation, quality, and service. Our brands are household names in our sectors, and our people are the foundation of our continued success.

Working with us means joining a values-led, supportive business that offers real scope for influence and impact. We invest in our people, encourage team collaboration, and actively champion continuous improvement. You’ll join a stable, growing company where your expertise will be valued, and your voice heard.