Payroll Specialist (inc. parallels)

An exciting opportunity to join a highly successful Utilities business in Reading, to predominately support on BAU as well as conducting parallel runs for the new system that is being brought in. This is a rolling interim position with a high-likelihood to be extended. Client Details Our Client Growing and highly acquisitive organisation Trading for over a decade, private equity backed Over 5,000 employees nationally Expansion into Ireland and wider Europe Close-knit payroll team Description Payroll Specialist (inc. parallels) Deliver accurate and timely BAU payroll processing, ensuring full compliance and effective query resolution. Conduct parallel payroll runs, perform variance analysis, and validate outputs between legacy and new systems. Support data migration validation, UAT, and BAU acceptance activities for the new payroll platform. Identify discrepancies, troubleshoot issues, and provide feedback to implementation and technical teams. Maintain payroll controls, reconciliations, reporting, and documentation throughout the transition. Contribute to process improvements and assist with knowledge transfer to steady‑state teams Profile Payroll Specialist (inc. parallels) Happy to conduct a rolling, interim assignment In a commutable distance of the office (and happy to come in on an ad hoc basis) Strong excel capability e.g. VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, pivots etc. Significant hands on UK end to end payroll processing experience Proven background in working on payroll transitions, implementations etc. Comfortable working in a fast paced, project driven environmentJob Offer Payroll Specialist (inc. parallels) Flexible working arrangement - full time but only in the office 1-2 days per week (Reading) Free on site parking Easily accessible via public transport Day rate: c. £200 per day (inclusive of holiday pay) Start Date: ASAP until c. Nov 2026 Adjustable start and finish times