Interim Head of Payroll - Transport for London

Transport for London (TfL) is seeking an experienced Interim Head of Payroll to lead and oversee a complex multi-organisation payroll operation. This role is critical in ensuring smooth continuity ahead of the incumbent's departure (week before 28th February). You’ll manage payroll operations across TfL, GLA, OPDC and OSDC, covering weekly, four-weekly and monthly payrolls, plus pay awards and year-end compliance. This is a hands-on leadership role focused on validation, governance, and stakeholder engagement. The post also plays a key part in a major systems programme, supporting the migration from SAP on-premise to SuccessFactors, including a 12-week data validation project. This is initially a 6-month assignment with strong potential for extension or temp-to-perm. What You’ll Be Doing • Leading and supporting a payroll team of 16, including 3 direct reports. • Overseeing all payroll operations, ensuring accuracy, compliance and governance. • Validating complex payroll data across multiple payroll cycles. • Supporting SAP SuccessFactors implementation, working with both internal teams and external partners. • Managing year-end processes, HMRC requirements, PSA obligations, and pay awards. • Acting as a senior point of escalation for payroll issues and operational decision-making. What We’re Looking For Essential • Proven experience leading a payroll team within a large, complex environment. • Strong track record delivering in-house payroll solutions. • Excellent technical payroll knowledge (HMRC compliance, PSA, governance, year-end). Desirable • Experience with SAP and/or SuccessFactors. • Public sector experience (familiarity with governance, pace, and structure). • Weekly payroll experience (nice-to-have). Preferred Background • Large-scale payroll operations. • Public sector or similar highly governed environments. • Candidates who can step into a high-pressure, fast-paced context. About the Team • Size: 16 payroll professionals • Direct Reports: 3 team managers • Environment: Busy due to multiple payroll cycles and system migration Typical Day • Leading the payroll team and monitoring operational delivery • Reviewing and validating payroll outputs • Engaging with SAP migration partners and internal stakeholders • Problem-solving across governance, compliance, and data accuracy • Ensuring effective controls and segregation of duties