Payroll Operations Manager

The Payroll Operations Manager is a critical, technical leadership role responsible for the configuration, optimization, and day-to-day operations of our core Payroll and HR Information Systems (HRIS). This role serves as the primary technical subject matter expert at the intersection of Payroll, HR, and Finance, ensuring system accuracy, compliance, and efficiency across all platforms and integrations. The Manager will drive system enhancements, manage vendor data exchanges, and collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to support a timely and accurate payroll process.

Technical System Management & Oversight

• Serve as the technical lead and subject matter expert for core HRIS and Payroll platforms, including expertise in Workday and ADP Workforce Now (or comparable enterprise systems).
• Oversee payroll configurations, implementation, and end-to-end processing for all employee groups and multi-state jurisdictions, ensuring accurate and timely payroll disbursements.
• Manage and maintain system integrations (EDI) for third-party benefits and financial vendors (e.g., 401K, benefits, stock, and general ledger systems).
• Lead the implementation of new technologies, system upgrades, and enhancements, ensuring seamless integration with existing IT infrastructure.
• Conduct Data Extraction, Transformation, and Loading (ETL) tasks and manage system databases, ensuring SOX compliance and overall data integrity through routine audits and discrepancy resolution.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Compliance

• Collaborate extensively with cross-functional teams (HR, Benefits, IT, Accounting, and Finance) to define system requirements, perform configuration, conduct User Acceptance Testing (UAT), and ensure timely delivery of project milestones.
• Perform payroll accounting activities, including reconciling payroll and benefit accounts, preparing payroll journal entries, and managing general ledger postings.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive payroll policies and procedures and ensure continuous compliance with federal, state, and local tax laws, wage regulations, and company policies.
• Analyze, evaluate, and troubleshoot complex system and process issues, working with external vendors to implement necessary enhancements and corrective measures.

Reporting, Documentation, and Support

• Develop, maintain, and automate a wide range of reports and analytics for HR, Payroll, and Finance, providing critical insights into metrics, trends, and compliance.
• Develop and deliver training programs for HR and Finance end-users to maximize system utilization and efficiency.
• Maintain HRIS and Payroll documentation, including system processes, workflows, and user guides, ensuring accurate and up-to-date information.
• Conduct regular audits of payroll and HR records, identifying discrepancies and implementing corrective measures to enhance data accuracy.

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• 10 years of progressive experience in HRIS and/or Payroll systems, with at least 2 years in a technical leadership or managerial capacity.
• Experience processing end-to-end, multi-state payroll for a large employee base (e.g., 1000+ employees).
• Experience with the technical configuration, implementation, and maintenance of enterprise-level HRIS/Payroll systems (e.g., Workday, Dayforce, ADP, or similar).

• Experience with data conversion and migration projects, including data mapping and validation.
• Understanding of payroll accounting principles and General Ledger (GL) integration.
• Experience working with compliance and data security requirements (e.g., SOX compliance, data privacy laws).

• Analytical and problem-solving skills with a track record of identifying areas for improvement and implementing successful, efficient solutions.
• Knowledge of multiple Payroll/HRIS platforms and integration methods.
• Experience with query language/reporting tools for data extraction and automated exports.