Hays Accountancy & Finance are pleased to be supporting one of the most successful and trusted firms of Chartered Accountants in East Anglia, who have been established for nearly 50 years and have built their success and reputation on offering a proactive and professional approach to their clients. They are seeking an experienced, proactive Payroll Officer / Bookkeeper to join their team in Lowestoft. You will play a key role in managing multiple client payrolls across various SME industries, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely processing of a payroll bureau. In addition, you will support general finance tasks, including accounts preparation, bookkeeping and assisting at month-end and year-end close.

Your new role

You will be supporting their clients in the processing of their payrolls as the firm offers a payroll bureau service to over 230 clients and your core duties will include:

• Administer weekly, fortnightly, and monthly payrolls for a diverse portfolio of clients
• Process starters, leavers, and contractual changes; maintain payroll records accurately
• Manage statutory payments including SSP, SMP, SPP, and pension contributions
• Ensure compliance with HMRC regulations, including RTI submissions and year-end processes
• Liaise directly with clients, responding promptly to payroll-related queries
• Support auto-enrolment procedures and maintain pension scheme records
• Collaborate with internal teams to align payroll functions with broader finance operations
• Assist in preparing reports, reconciliations, and financial summaries for management
• Support general finance activities such as bank reconciliations and invoice processing

What you'll need to succeed

You will have proven experience of processing payroll, ideally within another firm of chartered accountants or payroll bureau, and possess a strong understanding of UK payroll legislation and HMRC regulations. You will be proficient with payroll software such as Sage Payroll, BrightPay, or IRIS, along with solid skills in Microsoft Excel and general finance systems. This role demands excellent communication and time-management abilities, coupled with a professional approach to confidentiality and handling sensitive information.
You will also assist, when required, with general bookkeeping and accounts preparation; however, your key duties will be managing the payroll bureau service.

What you'll get in return
As explained, this is a 4-day week permanent Payroll & Bookkeeper job based in Lowestoft, paying circa £30,000 pro rata for the 4-days (£23,000 - £24,000), 20 days holidays plus the bank holidays, free parking and pension.

What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role please contact Cara Whyte at Hays on

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