Interim Project Accountant - Payroll review

Interim Payroll Review Consultant (Outside IR35) Contract: Interim Consultancy (Outside IR35) Duration: Approximately 3 months (with potential extension) Location: Hybrid, London Day Rate: Competitive The Opportunity A leading international humanitarian charity is seeking an experienced Payroll Review Consultant to undertake a strategic review of its payroll function. This is a consultancy assignment for someone who can quickly assess the current payroll operating model, identify opportunities for improvement, and provide clear recommendations for the future delivery of payroll services. The successful consultant will engage with stakeholders across Finance, HR and Payroll to understand existing processes, systems and controls before producing a practical roadmap for change. A key outcome will be determining whether payroll should continue to be delivered in-house or be outsourced to a third-party provider. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced payroll transformation specialist who enjoys diagnosing complex operational challenges and delivering strategic recommendations. Key Responsibilities Conduct a comprehensive review of the organisation's current payroll function, processes and operating model. Assess the efficiency, effectiveness and resilience of existing payroll operations. Review payroll governance, controls, compliance and associated risks. Evaluate current payroll systems, reporting capabilities and integration with HR and Finance. Map end-to-end payroll processes and identify inefficiencies, duplication and opportunities for automation. Benchmark the current function against best practice. Carry out an options appraisal comparing an in-house payroll model against outsourcing to a managed payroll provider. Develop a robust business case outlining the advantages, risks, costs and implementation considerations for each option. Present findings and recommendations to senior stakeholders. Produce a practical roadmap and implementation plan for the preferred operating model. Person Specification We are looking for someone who can demonstrate: Significant experience reviewing, transforming or redesigning payroll functions. Proven experience leading payroll transformation or operating model reviews. Strong understanding of UK payroll legislation, compliance and governance. Experience evaluating outsourced payroll providers and managed service models. Excellent analytical and process mapping skills. Ability to engage credibly with senior Finance, HR and operational stakeholders. Strong report writing and presentation skills, with the ability to communicate complex findings clearly. Experience within the charity, public sector or other complex organisations would be advantageous, although not essential. A proactive, independent consultant who is comfortable working autonomously and delivering recommendations with minimal supervision. Deliverables The consultant will be expected to deliver: Current state assessment of the payroll function. Gap analysis against best practice. Risk and controls assessment. Options appraisal for in-house versus outsourced payroll. Cost-benefit analysis and business case. Final recommendations report. High-level implementation roadmap for the preferred solution. This assignment is offered on an Outside IR35 basis and would suit an experienced payroll consultant, payroll transformation specialist, or operational review consultant with a track record of delivering strategic payroll reviews and organisational change.