Practice - Payroll Manager and Assistant Bookkeeper

Location Horsforth
Discipline: Accounting
Job type: Permanent
Salary: £28000 to £30000
Contact name: Carly Dunn

Contact email: carly@supreme-ss.com
Job ref: 5341

Payroll Manager & Assistant Bookkeeper – Leeds (Horsforth)

Location: Leeds (Horsforth), West Yorkshire – Hybrid working available
Position Type: Permanent | Full-time or Part-time (30–37 hours per week) | Payroll & Bookkeeping
Industry: Chartered Accountancy / Payroll Services / Cloud Accounting
Salary: £28,000 – £30,000 (pro rata, depending on experience and hours)

About the Role

An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Payroll Manager and Assistant Bookkeeper to join a reputable accountancy practice in Horsforth, Leeds. This hybrid position suits a hands-on professional with strong payroll and bookkeeping expertise who enjoys working across a variety of client sectors. You’ll be responsible for managing end-to-end payroll services while supporting bookkeeping and VAT processes during quieter payroll periods.

You’ll join a friendly, collaborative team that values accuracy, client service, and digital efficiency — with most clients now operating on cloud accounting platforms such as Xero, BrightPay, and Sage.

Key Responsibilities

  • Manage the full end-to-end payroll process across a diverse client portfolio, ensuring compliance with UK payroll legislation

  • Process starters, leavers, and statutory payments (SSP, SMP, SPP, etc.) accurately and efficiently

  • Maintain payroll records, produce reports, and handle client payroll queries confidentially

  • Liaise with HMRC and pension providers, ensuring all submissions are timely and accurate

  • Stay up to date with legislative changes and payroll best practices

  • Provide bookkeeping support during non-payroll periods, including:

    • Bank reconciliations and control account management

    • Transaction processing and ledger maintenance

    • Preparation and submission of VAT returns

    • Responding to client queries and delivering high-quality service

    • Manage workload and prioritise tasks effectively to meet client deadlines

    • Support the digital transformation of the payroll and bookkeeping function through use of modern systems and apps

    Ideal Candidate Profile

    • Minimum 3 years’ experience in Payroll (practice or bureau setting essential)

    • Strong bookkeeping experience, ideally within an accountancy practice

    • Proficient with BrightPay, Xero, and/or Sage Payroll

    • Excellent attention to detail and data accuracy

    • Strong communication and organisational skills

    • Ability to work independently and handle multiple client relationships

    • Professional, client-focused approach with flexibility for hybrid working

    Benefits & Perks

    • Competitive salary between £28,000 – £30,000 (pro rata)

    • Company pension scheme

    • Hybrid working options (office and remote balance)

    • Flexible hours – 30 to 37 per week

    • Supportive and approachable team culture

    • Opportunity to work with a growing, tech-driven practice

    • Exposure to a wide variety of clients and cloud accounting tools

    For more information please contact:

    Carly Dunn
    Divisional Talent Partner
    T: 07706 309 606
    E: carly@supreme-ss.com