Job Title

Interim Head of Payroll Location: South West / Remote (Hybrid) Salary: £65,248 per annum Contract: Full-time (37 hrs/week) | 18-Month InterimAre you a strategic payroll leader ready to shape the future of payroll for one of the South West’s largest and most complex employers?Devon County Council is looking for a visionary Head of Payroll to lead transformation, drive innovation, and deliver excellence in service for over 15,000 employees, spanning council departments, maintained schools, and external clients.This is a rare opportunity to step into a senior leadership role with real influence – where your expertise will shape strategy, streamline delivery, and ensure compliance at scale. You’ll join our People & Culture Senior Leadership Team, playing a key role in fulfilling our wider People Strategy and organisational vision. What We’re Looking ForWe want a results-driven, forward-thinking professional with a strong background in complex, high-volume payroll operations. You will thrive in a strategic leadership role, with the ability to manage change, influence at senior levels, and lead a high-performing team.️ You will bring:A proven track record in leading large payroll teams with multiple pay runsStrategic and operational leadership skillsDeep knowledge of payroll legislation including Careers Act, HMRC, and PensionsExpertise in CIPP (or equivalent) payroll qualificationsExceptional communication, influencing, and stakeholder management skillsThe ability to interpret data and trends to drive improvementsExperience in delivering payroll for local government or education (desirable)A proactive, collaborative, and commercially aware approach Key ResponsibilitiesLead and manage the end-to-end payroll service for the Council and clientsShape and deliver payroll strategy in line with Devon’s organisational goalsEnsure compliance with evolving legislation and internal policiesCollaborate with senior officers, elected members, and external partnersMaintain and grow traded services, meeting and exceeding SLAsDrive innovation in payroll systems and processes through technology and dataPartner with Tax Compliance and HR to maintain regulatory accuracyIdentify and implement improvements that enhance user experience and efficiency Why Join Devon County Council?We value our people and invest in their wellbeing, growth, and flexibility. In return for your leadership, we offer a benefits package that supports both your professional and personal life: Generous annual leave and flexible working arrangements Option to purchase additional leave Hybrid working: Exeter office & remote Entry into the Local Government Pension Scheme Access to salary sacrifice schemes including EV leasing & tech purchases Employee Assistance Programme️ Discounts at over 900 retailers via our employee benefits platform Why Apply Through Pertemps?This is an agency post offered through Pertemps. By joining us, you’ll benefit from:A dedicated consultant with access to nationwide rolesA quick and easy registration processOngoing compliance handled for youPrompt and reliable weekly payrollReferral schemes and other great incentives Ideal for Professionals Based In or Around:Plymouth, Bournemouth, Bristol, Bath, Southampton, Plymouth, Cardiff, Yeovil, Newport, Poole, Torquay, Paignton, Exeter, Exmouth, Newquay, St Austell, Bodmin, Truro, Falmouth, St Ives, Weymouth, Yeovil, Taunton, Bridgewater, Minehead, Ilfracombe, Barnstable, Bideford, Bude, Launceston and across the South West. Not the right role for you?We recruit across a wide range of leadership and specialist roles including:Head of Service | Team Manager | Service Manager | Social Work | HR Leadership | Adult & Children’s Services | Payroll & Finance LeadershipOr refer a friend – we offer generous referral bonuses. Get in touch today to learn more or apply directly. This is your opportunity to lead change where it matters most. #J-18808-Ljbffr