Payroll Manager; Workday

Payroll Manager

Position Overview

The Payroll Manager is responsible for the end‑to‑end ownership of payroll operations and payroll tax compliance. This role oversees accurate, timely, and compliant payroll processing for a large multi‑state employee population while serving as the primary subject matter expert for payroll taxes, audits, reconciliations, and regulatory compliance. In addition to leading the function strategically, this role remains hands‑on in bi‑weekly payroll processing and employee support.

This is a highly visible role partnering closely with HR, Finance, and Leadership to ensure operational excellence, compliance, and continuous improvement across all payroll functions.

Payroll Operations & Processing

• Own full‑cycle bi‑weekly payroll processing, including data entry, validation, auditing, reconciliation, and transmission.
• Manage payroll for 1,000+ employees, including hourly and salaried populations across multiple states.
• Oversee and validate payroll deductions for taxes, benefits, garnishments, charitable contributions, and other with holdings.
• Process bonuses, salary changes, retro pay, and other off‑cycle payments.
• Issue and reissue checks or direct deposits as needed.

Payroll Tax Compliance

• Ensure accurate and timely federal, state, and local payroll tax filings and payments (monthly, quarterly, and annual).
• Reconcile payroll tax accounts and resolve discrepancies.
• Respond to tax notices and work directly with tax agencies as needed.
• Monitor changes in tax laws and ensure ongoing compliance.
• Record and process federal and state payroll tax deposits.

Leadership Oversight

• Serve as the Payroll subject matter expert and escalation point for complex issues.
• Maintain and enhance payroll policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Drive continuous process improvement and automation where possible.

Audit, Controls & Reporting

• Perform payroll audits, including reconciliation of payroll registers to general ledger and monthly bank statements.
• Maintain accurate payroll records and documentation in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
• Generate ad‑hoc and recurring payroll and labor reporting.
• Support internal and external audits.

Cross‑Functional Partnership & Employee Support

• Partner closely with HR, Finance, and Compensation teams.
• Provide high‑level customer service to employees and leaders for payroll questions and issue resolution.
• Support HR processes that impact payroll accuracy and compliance.

• CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) strongly preferred.
• 7‑10 years of progressive payroll experience, including multi‑state payroll and tax compliance.
• Prior experience leading or serving as a senior payroll authority.
• Strong knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll regulations.
• Advanced experience with Workday Payroll and ADP required.
• High proficiency in Excel and Microsoft Office.
• Exceptional attention to detail, confidentiality, and integrity.
• Strong communication, problem‑solving, and leadership skills.

• Mid‑Senior level

• Full‑time

• Human Resources

• Staffing and Recruiting

• Medical insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401(k)
• Disability insurance