Title:  UK Payroll Leader

Job Description

Ready to shape the future of payroll at Aramark UK? We’re looking for a skilled and forward‑thinking Payroll Lead to guide our payroll operations, support transformation projects, and develop a high‑performing team.

In this pivotal role, you’ll oversee the delivery of accurate, timely payroll across a diverse workforce—ranging from hourly and contracted staff to executive and offshore employees. You’ll ensure we remain fully compliant with UK legislation, champion continuous improvement, and play a central role in enhancing our payroll systems and processes.

If you’re a confident people leader with deep payroll expertise and a passion for modernising ways of working, this is an opportunity to make a real impact across a complex, multi‑site organisation.

This is a permanent, full time and hybrid role based out of our Horsforth, Leeds office.

What's in it for you:

• Competitive salary and package
• Generous annual leave that increases in line with service, with the opportunity to buy extra
• Defined contribution pension scheme
• Life assurance
• Benefits app: access to 100s of discounts, online GP appointments, mental health support and our Employee Assistance Program
• FOOD! Opportunities to attend in-house events and try the culinary genius of our teams (we are a food business after all!)

Job Responsibilities

• Lead the end‑to‑end delivery of multiple UK payrolls, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance across all employee groups.
• Oversee payroll controls, reconciliations, and exception management, maintaining full adherence to UK legislation and internal policies.
• Collaborate with Finance, IT, Operations, and sector HR teams to resolve payroll issues and drive process standardisation.
• Manage and develop payroll team members, providing coaching, guidance, and support to strengthen capability and performance.
• Partner with external providers and offshore teams to maintain system integrity, coordinate updates, and optimise integrations.
• Drive payroll transformation initiatives, including system enhancements, automation opportunities, and workflow improvements.
• Ensure robust documentation, audit readiness, and secure handling of sensitive employee data in line with GDPR requirements.

Key Requirements:

• Proven experience managing complex, multi‑site UK payroll operations with strong knowledge of payroll legislation and compliance.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to develop, coach, and motivate a payroll team.
• Proficiency in payroll systems and workforce management tools (e.g., iTrent, Kronos, ADP) with strong data accuracy and validation skills.
• Excellent stakeholder management abilities, able to collaborate effectively with Finance, HR, IT, and external partners.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and organisational skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

About Aramark

If you are applying for this role and you already work for Aramark, you must notify your line manager before submitting your application.

At Aramark UK, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued and empowered to thrive. As a proud Disability Confident employer, we actively encourage applications from individuals of all abilities and are dedicated to supporting employees with disabilities throughout their career journey.

We ensure our recruitment process is accessible, and reasonable adjustments are available at every stage, from application to interview and employment. If you require any accommodations or have any questions, please reach out to our recruitment team – careers@aramark.co.uk