Payroll & Benefits Manager at WPP Production

London, England, United Kingdom -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

30 Jun, 26

Salary

0.0

Posted On

01 Apr, 26

Experience

5 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Payroll Management, Benefits Management, Vendor Management, Team Development, UK Payroll Legislation, HMRC Compliance, Data Management, Excel Skills, Project Management, Analytical Skills, Problem-Solving, Organizational Skills, Communication Skills, Attention to Detail, Continuous Improvement, Collaboration

Industry

Advertising Services

Description

About WPP Production We are WPP Production - the unified global production company that brings together all of WPP's content producers, studios and craft experts into one connected organisation. We combine world-class human craft with next generation technology to originate, design, and deliver multi-channel content systems at scale. Built for borderless collaboration and powered by deep craft expertise, we are the production engine designed for today's always on, AI driven marketing world. About WPP WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company – powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. For more information, visit WPP.com. A hybrid working model We believe the best work happens when we’re together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That’s why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process. What does a Payroll and Benefits Manager do at WPP Production? The Payroll and Benefits Manager is a key member of the UK People team, reporting to the UK Head of HR and supporting a headcount of circa 1,000 employees. The role will have overall responsibility for the accuracy and timeliness of the monthly payroll process, in addition to responsibility for the management of our UK benefits programme. The successful candidate will manage and develop a dedicated Payroll and Benefits Specialist, drive continuous improvement, and foster strong collaborative relationships across various internal and external stakeholders. Key Responsibilities Manage the monthly payroll process, ensuring timely and accurate payment for all UK employees. This includes reviewing, checking and approving payroll data, and ultimately signing off on all administrative input from the Payroll and Benefits Specialist. Ensure strict adherence to all UK payroll legislation, including PAYE, National Insurance, Real Time Information (RTI) submissions to HMRC, auto-enrolment pension regulations, etc. Stay abreast of changes in legislation and implement necessary adjustments. Lead and execute critical tax year end activities, such as the production and distribution of P60’s and P11D’s. Prepare and submit accurate Gender pay gap reporting, and other statutory reporting requirements. Manage relationships with external vendors (e.g., SD Worx, Scottish Widows, Lockton), ensuring optimal service levels, data security, and efficient process execution. Collaborate with the wider WPP network on annual benefit renewals, overseeing enrolment windows, vendor negotiations, system configuration, and internal communications to maximise employee engagement and take-up. Deliver comprehensive support to Finance teams for SOX compliance, internal audits and routine financial reporting. Conduct regular internal data integrity audits and reconciliations. Supervise and guide the Payroll & Benefits Specialist in the administration of all UK employee benefits, including the pension scheme, private medical insurance, life assurance and various other ancillary benefits. Ensure regular process improvement and development; continuously review, develop and implement best practices and process improvements to enhance efficiency, accuracy and employee experience. Coach and develop the Payroll & Benefits Specialist, fostering a culture of accuracy, continuous learning, growth and autonomy. Build and cultivate strong working relationships and collaborate effectively with HR Business Partners, Talent Acquisition, Finance, Reward, People Operations and other internal teams on various projects, audits and strategic initiatives. Partner with HR Business Partners to support and manage TUPE and integration processes from a Payroll perspective. Requirements Minimum 5 years of demonstrable experience managing UK payroll operations for a significant employee base (e.g., 500+ employees) Proven experience managing a comprehensive UK benefits portfolio, including vendor management best practices Prior experience in a people manager role, with a track record of developing team members. In-depth knowledge of UK payroll legislation, HMRC requirements, auto-enrolment pension regulations, financial controls, and audit requirements. Proficiency with large-scale payroll systems (SD Worx advantageous) and HRIS systems, including data management and intermediate Excel skills. Demonstrable project management experience Exceptional attention to detail, accuracy, and integrity when handling sensitive and confidential information. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines. Excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of explaining complex information clearly and acting as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for query escalations. A proactive, autonomous, and collaborative approach to work. CIPP (Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals) qualification or similar, advantageous but not essential. #LI-Hybrid #LI-NK1 Why work here: At WPP Production, you’ll help shape the future of content production at a truly global scale. We bring together world-class talent, cutting-edge studios, and advanced technology to solve some of the most complex creative and production challenges in the industry. You’ll work in a collaborative, borderless environment where craft excellence is valued, innovation is encouraged, and AI and next-generation tools are used to amplify not replace human creativity. With access to diverse projects, global career opportunities, and the backing of WPP’s unmatched network, this is a place where you can grow your skills, make real impact, and create work that performs for every audience, across every channel, at every moment. Inclusion and Impact WPP is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers. Data We rely on legitimate interest as a legal basis for processing personal information under the GDPR for purposes of recruitment and applications for employment. When you click the "Submit Application" button at the bottom of this page, this will send all the information you have added to WPP Production. Before you do this, we think it's a good idea to read through our Privacy statement. This explains what we do with your personal data when you apply for a role with us, and, how you can update the information you have provided us with or how to remove it. Please contact careers@wppproduction.com if you need the job advert or form in another format.

Responsibilities

The Payroll and Benefits Manager is responsible for the accuracy and timeliness of the monthly payroll process and the management of the UK benefits program. This includes overseeing payroll data, ensuring compliance with legislation, and managing relationships with external vendors.