Senior Payroll Manager

Purpose Statement

The Senior Payroll Manager provides strategic leadership and oversight of all payroll operations across the U.S. and Canada. This position will also be responsible for the management and supervision of the payroll team, including our Shared Services, and our payroll vendor relationships. This role ensures compliance with all federal, state, and local tax regulations, manages vendor relationships, and drives continuous improvement in payroll processes and systems. The Senior Payroll Manager is a key partner to Finance, HR, and external stakeholders, ensuring payroll integrity, operational excellence, and alignment with organizational goals. This leader also plays a critical role in integrating payroll operations during mergers and acquisitions and in shaping long-term payroll strategy.  

Key Accountabilities and Outcomes

•    Lead the strategic direction and execution of payroll operations for U.S. and Canada, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timeliness.
•    Serve as the primary liaison with executive leadership, Finance, HR, and external auditors on payroll-related matters.
•    Oversee and mentor the payroll team, including Shared Services, fostering a culture of accountability, development, and high performance.
•    Drive continuous improvement initiatives, leveraging technology and best practices to enhance payroll efficiency and accuracy.
•    Ensure robust governance and internal controls over payroll processes, including tax filings, reconciliations, and financial reporting.
•    Lead payroll-related components of mergers, acquisitions, and organizational changes, ensuring seamless integration and compliance.
•    Partner with ADP and other vendors to optimize system configurations, implement new features, and ensure regulatory compliance.
•    Oversee year-end processes including tax reconciliations, W-2 statement of earnings distribution, and audit support.
•    Monitor and interpret changes in payroll legislation and tax regulations, ensuring timely implementation and communication.
•    Champion cross-functional collaboration with Total Rewards, HRIS, Field HR, and Finance to align payroll with broader business strategies.

Knowledge, Skills, and Experience

•    Bachelor’s degree in business, HR, Finance, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
•    8–10 years of progressive payroll or finance experience, including 3+ years in a leadership role.
•    Deep expertise in payroll tax compliance, employment law, and multi-jurisdictional payroll operations.
•    Proven track record of leading process improvement and system optimization initiatives.
•    Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; experience with ADP reporting and payroll systems (e.g., eTime, WorkforceNow).
•    Exceptional communication skills, stakeholder management, and customer service skills.
•    High level of integrity and ability to manage sensitive information with discretion.
•    Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and payroll analytics tools.