Client Payroll Team Lead (Managed Services, Education)

About IRIS

IRIS Software Group is one of the UK's largest privately held software companies, trusted by 100,000+ businesses, schools and accountancy firms to keep their operations running. Our software pays 1 in 6 UK employees, supports over 12,000 schools, and is relied on by 91 of the top 100 UK accountancy firms.

We're a Great Place to Work® certified employer, recognised for our commitment to well-being, inclusion and development - and we're growing fast.

At IRIS Software Group, we power the businesses behind the UK economy processing payroll for a significant proportion of UK employees and supporting organisations with mission-critical solutions.

We are now looking for a Client Payroll Team Lead to join our growing payroll bureau team from our Manchester office. Please note, this is an on-site role managing a sizeable team of payroll professionals.

The Role

This is a hands on leadership role, where you’ll lead a team responsible for delivering accurate, compliant payroll services to a wide portfolio of clients.

You’ll play a key role in ensuring exceptional service delivery while developing and motivating your team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, coach and develop a team of payroll professionals to maximise performance.

• Ensure all payrolls are processed accurately, on time, and in line with SLAs and KPIs.

• Act as the primary escalation point for payroll queries and client issues.

• Manage team performance, productivity and development plans

• Build strong, trusted relationships with clients, ensuring high satisfaction and retention.

• Maintain up to date knowledge of payroll legislation and ensure team compliance.

• Support continuous improvement of payroll processes and service delivery

About You

• 5+ years’ payroll experience, including end to end payroll processing.

• Strong knowledge of PAYE, pensions and payroll legislation.

• Experience leading or mentoring a team

• Strong customer focus with excellent communication skills

• Highly organised with strong attention to detail

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment

Why IRIS?

• Join one of the UK’s largest privately held software companies supporting millions of users

• Work in a collaborative, people first environment recognised as a Great Place to Work

• Opportunities for career progression and development

• Flexible and remote working options available

• Be part of a business that powers critical payroll services across the UK

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• Impact: Your work will influence millions globally.

• Growth: Continuous learning and career development opportunities.

• Belonging: A culture that celebrates diversity and empowers every individual.
  

Ready to Apply?

Click Apply - we’re excited to learn about your unique perspective and experience. If you need adjustments during the process, let us know. We’re committed to making this opportunity accessible to everyone.

What to expect from our hiring process

Our process is designed to be fair, transparent and straightforward. Stages vary depending on the role — more senior positions may involve additional steps, and some areas include role-specific assessments such as a technical test or case study — but typically you can expect:

1. Application review — we assess your experience and potential

2. Initial call — a short conversation to learn about you and share more about the role

3. Skills assessment — tailored to the position, e.g. case study, coding challenge or portfolio review

4. Final interview — meet the team and explore how you'll make an IMPACT at IRIS

We'll always walk you through the specific stages at the start of the process so you can prepare with confidence.

If you need any adjustments or accommodations during the process, let us know, we’re committed to making this experience accessible for everyone.