Gillian Connell

Payroll professional with full ownership of end-to-end payroll operations across UK and Ireland entities, supporting a workforce of approximately 550 employees. Experienced in managing complex payroll cycles, statutory compliance, and benefits administration including pensions, healthcare, and benefit-in-kind (BIK). Proven ability to deliver accurate payroll under pressure, manage high volumes of employee queries, and implement key regulatory changes such as HMRC payrolled benefits.

Operates with a high level of autonomy, consistently meeting deadlines while coordinating with HR, Finance, and operational teams.

Group Payroll Specialist (Lead) at Coffey Group (2024-05 – Present)

• Lead end-to-end payroll operations across UK and Ireland entities for approximately 550 employees (150 weekly, 400 monthly)
• Independently manage the full payroll lifecycle including salary processing, statutory deductions, and final payroll execution
• Ensure full compliance with HMRC and Irish Revenue requirements, including submission of P30, P32, and year-end returns
• Administer employee benefits including pensions, healthcare, and benefit-in-kind (BIK) such as company vehicles and accommodation
• Played a key role in the implementation of HMRC payrolled benefits (April 2026), managing high volumes of employee queries and ensuring accurate payroll delivery
• Manage pension and healthcare contributions across provider platforms, ensuring timely and accurate submissions
• Produce payroll reports and hours analysis to support financial planning and business decision-making
• Support audit processes and maintain accurate payroll records in line with compliance requirements
• Act as the primary point of contact for payroll-related queries, resolving issues efficiently across a large workforce

Payroll Specialist / Payroll Manager at PJ Personnel (2022-01 – 2024-04)

• Progressed from Payroll Administrator to Payroll Specialist and subsequently Payroll Manager (maternity cover), taking full responsibility for payroll operations
• Managed weekly payroll for approximately 300 operatives, ensuring accurate calculation of wages, deductions, and statutory compliance
• Oversaw onboarding, cessations, and payroll system updates, maintaining compliance with employment and regulatory requirements
• Prepared weekly payroll and labour reports for senior management and contributed to monthly financial analysis
• Managed pensions, union payments (SIPTU), sick pay, and other payroll-related deductions
• Acted as key liaison between site managers, field staff, and senior leadership
• Led payroll meetings and provided ongoing support to operational teams

Office Manager / Payroll Specialist at Bushfield Care Centre (2021-07 – 2022-01)

• Managed monthly payroll for approximately 60 staff, including leave, sick pay, and expenses
• Oversaw daily office operations within a 41-bed nursing home, supporting both staff and residents
• Maintained HR processes including contracts, onboarding, compliance, and staff training coordination
• Conducted financial analysis, expense reconciliation, and liaised with external accountants
• Ensured compliance with regulatory requirements, including health & safety and operational policies

Operations Support Executive / Payroll Specialist at Dangan Group (2020-08 – 2021-07)

• Processed weekly payroll for over 600 employees across multiple divisions
• Managed employee records, contracts, and compliance with payroll and employment regulations
• Acted as liaison between internal teams, clients, and external bodies including Social Welfare
• Delivered payroll training and supported operational teams across recruitment and facilities
• Produced payroll reports, billing comparisons, and supported month-end finance processes

Order Processing Provisioner at Sales Sense International (2019-10 – 2020-08)

• Ensured compliance and quality control of broadband and energy sales
• Analysed daily sales data and produced reports to identify discrepancies and trends
• Supported team performance through training and process improvements

Bachelor of Business Degree

QQI Level 5 Award in Business Studies in Business Studies