Payroll Operations Manager

We are seeking an experienced payroll professional to oversee payroll operations in partnership with an external payroll provider. This role will be responsible for maintaining accurate and timely payroll processing, ensuring compliance, supporting employees and HR teams, and using payroll data to provide meaningful business insights. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, collaborative, and comfortable leading payroll-related processes and projects.

Key Responsibilities

Payroll Operations

• Manage day-to-day payroll activities in coordination with an outsourced payroll provider.
• Oversee payroll calendars, adjustments, deductions, and other payroll-related changes.
• Monitor payroll processing to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and data integrity.
• Investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies and serve as an escalation point for complex issues.
• Partner with Finance and Accounting to support accurate payroll accounting and financial reporting.

Compliance & Reporting

• Ensure payroll practices comply with applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
• Coordinate required payroll reporting and tax-related activities with external providers and other third parties.
• Support year-end payroll processes, including reconciliations, reporting, and tax-related requirements.
• Monitor regulatory changes and help ensure payroll processes remain aligned with current requirements.

Team Leadership & Employee Support

• Lead, mentor, and support payroll team members, as applicable.
• Provide guidance, training, and ongoing support to payroll staff.
• Partner with HR teams and employees to address payroll questions and resolve issues.
• Develop and deliver training related to payroll processes and system functionality.

Payroll Analytics & Reporting

• Prepare, review, and analyze payroll reports to identify trends, discrepancies, and opportunities for improvement.
• Translate payroll data into actionable insights for management.
• Provide reporting and analysis to support operational and business decisions.

Vendor & Stakeholder Management

• Manage the relationship with the external payroll provider and monitor service delivery against established expectations.
• Identify and address service issues and opportunities to improve the payroll process.
• Participate in vendor evaluations, process reviews, and contract-related discussions as needed.
• Build strong working relationships across HR, Finance, Accounting, and operational teams.

Projects & Process Improvement

• Lead or support payroll-related projects, including system implementations, upgrades, integrations, and process improvements.
• Evaluate existing payroll processes and identify opportunities to improve efficiency, accuracy, and employee experience.
• Coordinate cross-functional initiatives involving payroll systems, processes, and technology.