UK Payroll Executive

To ensure the accurate, timely, and compliant processing of payroll for multiple UK clients, the UK Payroll Executive will manage payroll data, process payroll transactions, support workplace pension auto-enrolment, respond to client queries, and ensure all payroll activities align with UK labour laws, HMRC requirements, tax regulations, and agreed client timelines.

Key Responsibilities

The role requires strong attention to detail, client service, ownership, and the ability to manage multiple payrolls and deadlines efficiently while continuously looking for ways to improve workflows through technology, AI, and automation.

Outcome 1: UK Payroll Knowledge & Process Proficiency

Develop a strong foundational understanding of UK payroll regulations and processes and confidently apply the appropriate rules when preparing and processing client payrolls.

Become fully familiar with Sleek's internal payroll platforms and processes, including HMRC submissions such as RTI, FPS, and EPS, workplace pension submissions, and year-end reporting requirements including P60s and P11Ds by the third month.

Outcome 2: Accurate & Compliant Payroll Processing

Process assigned client payrolls accurately and within agreed timelines, ensuring all payroll data is complete and correctly validated before submission.

Ensure 100% compliance with agreed payroll and statutory deadlines, including payroll runs, pension auto-enrolment submissions, and applicable HMRC requirements.

Identify discrepancies or potential issues early, take ownership of resolving them, and maintain high standards of confidentiality and data accuracy.

Outcome 3: Client Service & Responsiveness

Maintain a high level of client satisfaction by providing prompt, accurate, and professional responses to payroll-related queries.

Consistently achieve a CSAT target of at least 97% month-on-month while ensuring client queries and emails are responded to within the agreed communication SLA, with no unresolved tickets or emails left at the end of the day.

Build trusted relationships with clients by providing clear updates, proactively following up on outstanding information, and handling difficult conversations positively.

Outcome 4: Team Collaboration & Process Improvement

Work effectively with the UK Payroll team and other internal departments to ensure smooth payroll operations and timely resolution of client or processing issues.

Contribute to improving payroll processes and operational efficiency by identifying opportunities to use AI, automation, payroll technology, and improved workflows to reduce manual work, improve accuracy, and increase turnaround times.

Must-have experience:

• Minimum 1–2 years of hands-on UK payroll processing experience.
• Experience working in a bureau, outsourced payroll environment, or shared services centre is preferred.
• Experience managing multiple client payroll accounts is an advantage.
• Working knowledge of UK payroll processes, HMRC requirements, tax regulations, and workplace pension processes.
• Experience with payroll software such as BrightPay, Xero Payroll, or similar is an advantage.
• Strong attention to detail and experience working with sensitive and confidential financial information.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines.
• Strong written and verbal English communication skills.
• Comfortable working with data and payroll-related reporting and metrics.
• Practical experience or strong interest in using AI tools, automation, and IT applications to improve daily workflows.

Must-have attributes:

Ownership & Accountability: Takes full responsibility for assigned payrolls and client accounts, follows through on tasks without constant supervision, and proactively resolves issues or roadblocks.

Humility: Open to feedback, willing to learn, and comfortable acknowledging knowledge gaps and seeking support when required.

Structured Thinking: Able to organize multiple client payrolls, deadlines, queries, and tasks in a clear and logical manner, using sound judgment to prioritize competing requirements.

Data Driven & Attention to Detail: Comfortable working with numbers and payroll data, with a strong focus on accuracy. Able to identify discrepancies, missing information, or inconsistencies before they impact payroll processing or clients.

Can Have Tough Conversations in a Positive Way: Able to communicate clearly and professionally when dealing with sensitive payroll issues, missing information, delays, or difficult client situations while maintaining a constructive client relationship.

AI & Tech Savvy: Energetic about adopting new software, AI tools, automation, and technology to make payroll processes more efficient and effective.

Behavioral fit is also important at Sleek, and candidates should embody the following attributes:

Ownership: Demonstrates reliability and helps build trust within the team by ensuring tasks are completed and challenges are proactively addressed.

Humility: Open-mindedness to feedback and willingness to learn from others, fostering collaboration and a positive work environment.

Structured Thinking: Ability to show sound judgment in complex business scenarios, balancing organizational, team, and customer needs.

Attention to Detail: Ability to manage multiple client payrolls, deadlines, queries, and workstreams while ensuring accuracy and identifying inconsistencies.

Excellent Listener and Clear Communicator: Ensures effective communication across diverse nationalities and languages.