Job Description

About UsArmstrong Watson are a trusted and leading independent Accountancy and Business Advisory firm based in the North of England and Scotland. Our services and advice are all centred around our Quest to support our clients to achieve prosperity, a secure future and peace of mind, which cannot be achieved without the expertise of our dedicated and valued colleagues.With approximately 700 colleagues situated across 19 offices, our people and our culture are at the heart of what we do. We recognise the unique impact we have on not only our clients, but also our colleagues, and the communities in which we operate. Our success is dependent on every colleague embracing all four of our core values: Honesty, Humanity, Trust and Passion.The RoleWe are now recruiting for a rising star to join our growing Payroll Academy within our Newcastle office.Here at Armstrong Watson we take pride in delivering high-quality payroll services to our clients and their employees. You will become part of a supportive, customer-focused team where you will commence a rewarding career within Payroll.Supporting colleagues in the Payroll team, you will assist with processing a number of payrolls for a range of clients, developing your skills and knowledge over time. Having an eye for detail is vital as you will need to ensure that client records are kept up to date at all times. Remaining polite and professional is also essential as you will be a key point of contact for queries from clients, HMRC and colleagues.We are offering a successful candidate the opportunity to complete a Level 3 Payroll Administrator Apprenticeship whilst learning on-the-job alongside some highly experienced Payroll professionals. Successful completion of this qualification will then allow you to apply for Associate Membership of the CIPP (Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals).When you are with Armstrong Watson, you will be welcomed with rewarding work and a supportive learning environment to reach your full potential. We are proud to have been places 37th amongst the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers in the UK . Our training programme brings together both in person and on the job learning as part of our high-end study packages.The start date for successful candidates will be 1st September 2025.The CandidateIf you think this is the right opportunity for you and you wish to apply, please click Apply Now, where you will then be asked to complete our application form and upload a copy of your updated CV.All candidates must meet the following criteria points:

• Achieved a minimum of 7 GCSE's at Grade 5 (C) or above (including Maths, English and at least on Science) or a minimum of 6 National Fives (including Maths, English and at least one Science) at Grade C or above.
• Achieved already, or be predicted to achieve a minimum of 96 UCAS points obtained at A Level, Scottish Highers or BTEC Level 3 or above.
• Be at least 18 years of age by 31st August 2025.

As well as complying with the above basic requirements, we want candidates who demonstrate a positive and "can do" attitude, and who want to help ensure that our clients are happy. Those who love Payroll will have a fantastic and rewarding career ahead of them.Recruitment Process & How to ApplyIf you think this is the right opportunity for you, please apply online with our simple application form where you will also be asked to upload a copy of your current CV.The closing date for applications to be submitted is midnight on 27th April 2025.Shortlisted applicants will be invited to complete an online assessment. The online assessment will be emailed to successful candidates after closing date by a member of our Talent Acquisition Team.After successful completion of the online assessment stage, candidates will be invited to attend an Assessment Centre at our Newcastle office on 29th May 2025.Sponsorship Visas - Please note before applying that we are not a registered employer and therefore we are unable to offer sponsorship for this role.The BenefitsIn return for your hard work helping us shape our future growth and development; we will provide a competitive salary and a positive benefits package which includes:

• Salary Sacrifice Employer Contribution Pension Scheme including Life Cover (4x salary) and Income Protection
• Competitive Annual Leave entitlement up to 26 days, plus Bank Holidays
• Annual Leave Purchase Scheme allowing you to buy up to 5 additional days annual leave each year
• Smart Working Policy, giving you the ability to balance home and remote working
• Health Shield Cash Plan (cash back on a range of Health benefits and discounts on holidays, fashion and entertainment)
• Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 confidential support for wellbeing and health)
• Paid flu jabs and eye tests
• Introductory Commission Scheme (financial reward if you refer a new client)
• Employee Referral Scheme (financial reward if you refer new AW colleagues) enabling you to claim up to 32,500 for each referral
• Ongoing access to online training courses and materials
• Paid professional membership fees
• Charity of the Month
• Colleague of the Month
• Subsidised social events throughout the year

In addition to all the benefits you would expect from an award winning employer, you will be given the utmost encouragement and support to develop your career further.When you're with us... we're with you.

Armstrong Watson