All answers / S04-B-gemini-r1

S04-B | Gemini | Observation 1

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Collection: UK | Access: signed_in_free | Mode: Free default Auto; Temporary chat | Visible model: Gemini Auto

Exact question

Who recruits senior payroll change leaders in the UK? We need someone to lead a multi-country payroll system implementation, not just run monthly payroll.

Complete saved answer

When hiring for a multi-country payroll system implementation (e.g., Workday Payroll, ADP GlobalView, SAP SuccessFactors, Dayforce), you need a  Payroll Transformation/Change Specialist  or  Global Payroll Programme Director , rather than a BAU (Business-As-Usual) payroll ops manager.

In the UK, executive recruitment for these roles is split into three main channels:  Niche Specialist Consultancies ,  Global Change & Transformation Practice Groups , and  Big 4 / Boutique Advisory Partnerships .

1. Specialist Payroll & HR Transformation Firms

These firms specialise specifically in HR Systems, Payroll Change, and Target Operating Model (TOM) implementations:

Frazer Jones (The SR Group):  Has a dedicated Global Payroll & Transformation practice. They regularly place Programme Managers, Global Payroll Directors, and Change Leads specifically for multi-country software migrations.

Middlemore: A UK-based boutique search firm dedicated strictly to high-level payroll, transformation, and systems recruitment across the UK, EMEA, and US markets.

JGA Recruitment Group:  A specialist agency focusing entirely on Payroll & HR technology recruitment, with strong networks in interim and permanent payroll transformation leads.

2. Executive Change & Transformation Recruiters

These large search firms feature dedicated  Business Transformation & Change  divisions. They excel at placing leaders who understand target operating models, vendor management, system integrators (SIs), and global governance:

Morgan McKinley (Executive Search – Leaders for Transformation): Focuses specifically on high-impact transformation leads and interim programme managers.

Robert Walters (Projects & Transformation Division):  Has a dedicated team for complex cross-border HR and Finance change programmes.

Marks Sattin: Strong executive search capabilities for senior finance, technology, and transformation leaders (particularly for PE-backed or multinational enterprises).

Badenoch + Clark / LHH:  Well-regarded for interim transformation leadership and complex system rollout leads.

3. Alternative Sourcing Options

Interim Leadership Platforms

If this is a 12–24 month project, hiring a  Contract/Interim Programme Director  is often faster and more cost-effective than a permanent hire.

Bain Gray / Delivery Associates / Highbrow Search

Malt / Talmix / Catalant:  Independent platforms where seasoned global payroll implementation directors consult independently.

System Integrator (SI) Talent Networks

If you are working with an SI (e.g., Deloitte, PwC, Accenture, Alight, Mercer) for the technical deployment, ask your partner account manager to recommend client-side  Owner’s Rep / Client Programme Leads . Many ex-consultants transition into client-side transformation lead roles.

key Profile Criteria to Look For

When drafting the job specification, specify that you are looking for a  Systems & Change Lead , not a operational Payroll Manager:

| Key Competency | What to Look For |
| --- | --- |
| Global Vendor Management | Experience managing vendors like ADP, Workday, SAP, Dayforce, or CloudPay. |
| Target Operating Model (TOM) | Experience designing centralized, decentralized, or hybrid vendor models across EMEA/APAC/AMER. |
| Data Migration & Integration | Proven track record managing parallel runs, system testing (UAT), and data privacy compliance (GDPR, local tax laws). |
| Stakeholder & Change Management | Ability to align HR, Finance, IT, and regional country managers. |

Would you like advice on structuring the job description, setting benchmark day rates/salaries for interim transformation leads, or selecting the right employment model (Interim Lead vs. Permanent Director)?

Recorded source events

Capture status: Complete source record. Supporting citations, provider links and retrieved results are separate.

• supporting_citation
  Middlemore Payroll Search - Middlemore “We connect organisations with world‑class payroll talent, from Analysts, to Directors and VP's across the UK, EMEA, and the US. Payroll Search. Payroll Search o...”
  S04-B-gemini-r1-C1
• supporting_citation
  Morgan McKinley Leaders For Transformation - Executive Search - Morgan McKinley “Leaders for. Transformation. Successful transformation should bring widespread value to your business. In order to see sustained success, you need the right lea...”
  S04-B-gemini-r1-C2
• supporting_citation
  Marks Sattin Executive Search Services | Marks Sattin Specialist Recruitment “ We are extremely well connected with senior finance and tech professionals and can offer robust executive searches with curated, dynamic market mapping. We ass...”
  S04-B-gemini-r1-C3
• supporting_citation
  Agency Central Payroll recruitment agency listing - London “Payroll recruitment agency listing * Executive Headhunters Ltd. Verified Listing. We’re experts at Senior to Executive Level Payroll recruitment for businesse...”
  S04-B-gemini-r1-C4

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