Senior Rewards Manager

Location : Peterborough or Manchester (Hybrid)

Role Overview

We are seeking a Senior Rewards Manager to lead the development and execution of the Group s reward and benefits strategy. This high-impact role is central to ensuring that our reward offerings are competitive, compliant, and aligned with our business goals.

You will manage key external relationships, notably with our benefits broker, Gallaghers, and oversee critical cyclical activities such as annual salary reviews, Group bonus and incentive schemes, and benefit enrolment windows. The role will also provide strategic input on executive remuneration and support the preparation of Remuneration Committee materials

Key Responsibilities

• Reward and Benefit Strategy: Design and implement a comprehensive reward and benefits strategy that aligns with business objectives and supports talent attraction and retention.
• Job Grading and EVP: Implement job grading frameworks (e.g., Willis Towers Watson) and continuously evolve our employee value proposition to stay competitive in the market.
• Relationship Management: Lead the relationship with Gallaghers, ensuring high service standards and seamless communication.
• Annual Reward Cycles: Manage annual processes including salary reviews, incentive and bonus programs, and benefits enrolment windows.
• Policy Renewal: Work closely with Group Procurement, Group Legal, and Gallaghers to manage annual benefit policy renewals and negotiations.
• Pension Governance: Oversee pension scheme operations and ensure compliance with governance requirements.
• Executive Compensation: Provide expert guidance on executive pay matters and assist in the creation of Remuneration Committee reports and presentations.

Qualifications & Experience

• Experience working in a complex acquisitional Group environment, ideally within financial services or a regulated industry.
• Proven success in leading reward and salary/bonus review processes across multiple business units.
• Demonstrable experience in managing external broker relationships and navigating large-scale policy renewals.
• Sound knowledge of UK pension schemes, governance frameworks, and operational best practices.
• Working knowledge of Willis Towers Watson Global Grading systems and methodologies.
• Strong collaboration skills and experience engaging cross-functional stakeholders such as Procurement and Legal.

Skills & Competencies

• Analytical Thinking: Strong data interpretation skills to support strategic reward decisions.
• Communication: Clear and confident communicator, able to influence at all levels including senior leadership.
• Attention to Detail: Accurate and diligent with reward data and processes.
• Leadership: Experience managing or mentoring teams, with a collaborative leadership style.
• Adaptability: Comfortable working in a fast-paced and evolving business environment