PROFESSIONAL SERVICES RECRUITMENT - The best appointment you'll make

Payroll Operations Manager - Pensions & Systems - Central Scotland

Professional Services - Transactional / Part-Qualified
Ref: 2594 Date Posted: Friday 05 Sep 2025

Take the next step in your career with a leadership role that blends technical expertise, team management, and the chance to shape the future of payroll systems and pensions. W&A is proud to be partnering with Solvd. to appoint a Pension and Systems Operations Manager, based in Glasgow. 

About Solvd. 

Solvd. is a business process outsourcing specialist delivering high-quality Payroll, Finance, HR, and Customer Experience services. Trusted by leading UK transport providers and recently expanding into professional sport, Solvd. has ambitious growth plans and continues to build its reputation for reliability and innovation. At its core, Solvd. lives by the values of being Dependable, Proactive, Agile, and Inclusive, with its people at the heart of everything it does. 

The Opportunity 

Reporting to the Head of Payroll, this role is central to ensuring the smooth running of Solvd.’s pension and payroll systems operations. You’ll lead a team of administrators, manage system improvements, and oversee the daily operations of the pension function. You’ll also play a key part in implementing new client-driven system enhancements, ensuring services remain accurate, compliant, and efficient. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Lead and support systems and pensions teams to deliver accurate results. 

  • Oversee pension operations, including auto-enrolment, re-enrolment, and escalated queries. 

  • Manage system changes, updates, and readiness for new workstreams. 

  • Conduct one-to-ones, set objectives, and support staff development. 

  • Maintain workflows, processes, and RAID logs. 

  • Perform UAT testing for payroll system upgrades and new implementations. 

  • Configure new payment/deduction elements and generate reports. 

  • Liaise with payroll software providers and stakeholders, ensuring compliance and timely delivery. 

What You’ll Bring 

  • Proven leadership skills and experience managing pensions and systems operations. 

  • Knowledge of payroll systems, statutory regulations, and compliance. 

  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and MS Excel skills. 

  • High attention to detail with the ability to work under pressure. 

  • Strong stakeholder management and collaborative working style. 

  • Desirable: CIPP qualification and experience with Oracle, iTrent, Business Objects, or One Advanced. 

Package & Benefits 

  • Competitive salary (depending on experience) 

  • Permanent, full-time role (37.5 hours per week) 

  • Hybrid working model (Glasgow-based, 60% office) 

  • 34 days’ holiday (including public holidays) with option to buy more 

  • Competitive pension scheme 

  • Discretionary rail travel benefit 

  • Employee Assistance Programme 

Why This Role? 

  • Lead a specialist team within a growing and ambitious organisation. 

  • Play a pivotal role in shaping payroll systems and pension delivery. 

  • Join a values-led culture with Investors in People Platinum and Investors in Wellbeing Gold recognition. 

  • Excellent benefits and hybrid working model. 

To learn more or apply, please contact Laura Buchanan Owen at laura@wilkinsonandassociates.co.uk for a private and confidential discussion. Alternatively, submit your CV and we’ll be in touch.