Payroll & Bookkeeping Specialist

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in South Africa.

📋 Description

• Oversee a portfolio of UK payroll, bookkeeping, and CIS clients as their main contact point.

• Execute weekly and monthly payroll processes from start to finish, which includes RTI submissions, auto-enrolment pensions, statutory payments, managing starters and leavers, P11Ds, P60s, and year-end tasks.

• Prepare and file monthly CIS returns, ensuring proper contractor verifications and deductions.

• Conduct full-cycle bookkeeping tasks, such as bank reconciliations, maintaining purchase and sales ledgers, performing month-end activities, and filing UK VAT returns in compliance with Making Tax Digital regulations.

• Ensure the accuracy of financial records and adhere to deadlines.

• Directly engage with clients regarding their payroll and bookkeeping requirements.

• Collaborate closely with the Operations Director, taking ownership of the quality and precision of the work produced.

• Gradually assume responsibilities for reviewing the work of other bookkeepers and VAT returns, with a view toward eventually supervising the bookkeeping team.

⛳️ Requirements

• At least 3 years of practical UK payroll experience within an accounting firm, payroll bureau, or outsourced setting, managing multiple external client payrolls (both weekly and monthly); experience with a single in-house payroll will not suffice.

• In-depth understanding of UK payroll legislation and HMRC systems, including RTI (FPS/EPS), auto-enrolment, statutory payments, P11Ds, P60s, and year-end processes.

• Hands-on experience in preparing and submitting monthly CIS returns, including contractor verifications, deductions, and CIS300 submissions.

• Solid UK bookkeeping background across various clients, covering reconciliations, ledgers, month-end tasks, and VAT returns under Making Tax Digital.

• Proficiency in Xero is mandatory.

• Experience with BrightPay is highly preferred.

• Familiarity with Karbon, Dext, or AutoEntry is a plus.

• Exceptional attention to detail and strong organizational abilities.

• Capability to manage multiple client accounts independently.

• Strong communication skills with the confidence to handle client calls and foster trusted client relationships.

• AAT, ACCA, CIMA, SAIPA, or CIPP qualifications are advantageous.

• Certifications in Xero or BrightPay are beneficial.

• Previous experience in reviewing work or supervising junior team members is an asset.

🏝️ Benefits

• Competitive salary package.

• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.

• Flexible working arrangements.

• A supportive and collaborative work environment.