Manager, Payroll and Benefits

Job Description:

The Manager, Payroll & Benefits is a highly visible and critical role, responsible for the operational oversight of the company’s payroll and employee benefits programs. This role ensures employees are paid accurately and timely, benefit programs are administered effectively, and all payroll and benefits processes comply with applicable federal, state, and local regulations. The Manager will serve as a key partner to Human Resources, Finance, employees, and external vendors, driving operational excellence, process improvements, and a positive employee experience.

This role will also leverage HR technology and data to improve efficiency, reporting, compliance, and decision-making across payroll and benefits.

Oversee the end-to-end payroll process, ensuring accurate and timely processing for all employees. Partner closely with Finance and Accounting on payroll funding, reconciliations, reporting, and accounting requirements. Ensure payroll practices comply with federal, state, and local wage and tax regulations. Manage payroll tax filings, year-end processes, W-2s, and other required payroll reporting. Review payroll results and reports to identify discrepancies and ensure data accuracy.

Manage payroll-related audits and respond to internal and external inquiries. Partner with HR and Finance on compensation changes, bonuses, commissions, equity-related payroll activity, and other special payroll requirements. Maintain payroll procedures and controls to ensure consistency, accuracy, and compliance. Identify opportunities to automate and streamline payroll processes.

Manage the day-to-day administration of the company's health and welfare benefit programs, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, FSA, HSA, 401k and other programs. Administer leave of absences including but not limited to medical, personal, military, maternity, paternity and personal leaves. Lead annual benefits renewal and open enrollment activities in partnership with brokers, carriers, and internal stakeholders. Evaluate benefit programs and make recommendations that balance employee needs, cost, competitiveness, and business objectives.

Manage benefit vendors and serve as the primary point of contact for issue resolution and ongoing relationship management. Ensure accurate benefits eligibility, enrollment, deductions, and employee changes. Oversee compliance requirements, including ERISA, COBRA, HIPAA, ACA, Section 125, and other applicable regulations. Coordinate required benefit filings, audits, notices, and reporting. Monitor utilization, costs, and trends to identify opportunities for plan and process improvements.

Develop employee communications and educational materials to help employees understand and effectively utilize their benefits.

Stay current on federal, state, and local payroll and benefits legislation and ensure programs and processes remain compliant. Maintain appropriate documentation, controls, and procedures for payroll and benefits administration. Partner with legal counsel, brokers, auditors, and vendors as needed on compliance matters. Lead or support internal and external audits related to payroll and benefits. Partner with HRIS and HR teams to ensure payroll and benefits data is accurate and properly maintained within the HR system.

Support system configuration, testing, integrations, and enhancements related to payroll and benefits. Develop and maintain reporting and analytics to support payroll, benefits, compliance, and workforce decisions. Establish strong data controls and reconciliation processes across HR, payroll, benefits, and finance systems.

Lead, develop, and support payroll and benefits team members, fostering accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Establish clear processes, service expectations, and performance standards for the function. Manage relationships with payroll providers, benefits brokers, carriers, third-party administrators, and other vendors. Negotiate vendor services and contracts as appropriate. Serve as a subject matter expert…