UK payroll experienceUK payroll legislation (PAYE, NI, SSP, SMP)Payroll reconciliation & journalsExcel proficiencyPension & Auto EnrolmentPayroll reporting & analysisAudit & payroll controlsFourth or similar payroll systemHospitality / hotel payroll experienceService charge / tronc processingCIPP qualification
Job Description
Payroll & Benefits Manager position at Starwood Hotels responsible for accurate and timely processing of payroll for all hotel employees. The role manages end-to-end monthly payroll processes, ensures compliance with UK payroll legislation, reconciles payroll accounts, responds to employee queries, and produces payroll reporting and analysis. The position requires previous payroll experience with strong numerical and Excel skills, and works closely with Finance, People Ops, and hotel department heads.
Overview
Life at Starwood Hotels is based on a simple idea: the world is beautiful and we want to keep it that way. We hire thoughtful and inspiring Team Members and Leaders who understand that our people, collaboration, stellar service, and respect for nature are central to everything we do.
The Payroll & Benefits Manager is responsible for the accurate, timely and compliant processing of payroll for all hotel employees, ensuring employees are paid correctly and all payroll-related statutory, pension and internal reporting requirements are met. The role works closely with Finance, People Ops and hotel department heads to maintain accurate payroll records, control payroll costs and provide clear payroll reporting and analysis.
Experience using Fourth would be advantageous, but is not essential. Training can be provided for candidates with strong payroll experience and the ability to quickly learn new systems.
Responsibilities
•Manage the end-to-end monthly payroll process for all hotel employees
•Ensure salaries, hourly wages, overtime, holiday pay, bonuses, service charge/tronc and other adjustments are processed accurately and on time
•Review and process starters, leavers, salary changes, promotions and other employee changes
•Ensure compliance with PAYE, National Insurance, pensions, Auto Enrolment and statutory payments including SSP and SMP
•Review payroll reports prior to final approval and investigate any unusual or incorrect payments
•Manage and reconcile pension contributions and payroll-related deductions
•Reconcile payroll, service charge/tronc and related balance sheet accounts each month
•Prepare and review payroll journals for posting to the general ledger
•Work closely with HR and department heads to ensure payroll information and employee records are accurate
•Respond to employee payroll queries and resolve discrepancies in a timely and professional manner
•Produce payroll reporting and analysis covering labour costs, headcount, overtime and other key payroll trends
•Support payroll budgeting and forecasting, including providing information on headcount and labour cost changes
•Maintain strong payroll controls, supporting documentation and clear audit trails
•Support internal and external audits and provide payroll information when required
•Identify opportunities to improve payroll processes, controls and efficiency while maintaining strict confidentiality
Requirements
•Previous payroll experience with a good understanding of UK payroll legislation
•Strong numerical, analytical and reconciliation skills
•Good Excel skills and attention to detail
•Ability to work accurately to strict deadlines
•Strong communication and organisational skills
Desirable
•Payroll experience within a hotel or hospitality environment
•Experience using Fourth or similar payroll/workforce systems
•Experience processing service charge or tronc
•Experience with payroll journals and balance sheet reconciliations
•CIPP or equivalent payroll qualification
Benefits
•Free healthy and nutritious meals on duty
•24-hour Employee Assistance Program
•Flu vaccination vouchers
•Eye care contributions
•Social events throughout the year
•Wedding and Baby gifts
•Travel season ticket loan
•Complimentary chiropodist and reflexology treatment
•West End Club discounts in local shops, hotels, bars and restaurants
•Spa, Food and Beverage discounts ranging from 30% to 50%
•Guest experience overnight stay including restaurant and bars
•Opportunities to be involved in charity and community events
•All Starwood Hotels discounted employee, friends and family room rates
•Enhanced Holiday Benefit
•Team Member Recognition program
•SH University online learning and professional development platform
•Career advancement opportunities globally
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