Job Title:
Payroll Manager
Company: Confidential
Location: Queens, NY
Created: 2026-05-08
Job Type: Full Time
Job Description:
OverviewWe are partnering on a confidential search for a Payroll Manager to lead and oversee payroll operations across multiple regions, including the United States and Canada. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate, compliant, and timely payroll processing while providing leadership to a team of payroll professionals.The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in multi-state payroll, strong leadership capabilities, and a proven ability to manage complex payroll environments in a highly regulated setting.Key ResponsibilitiesPayroll Operations & ComplianceOversee end-to-end payroll processing, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations Maintain and review payroll systems and processes related to salaries, benefits, garnishments, taxes, and deductions Ensure compliance with wage and hour laws, tax regulations, and payroll best practices across all jurisdictions Support payroll close processes, including reporting and validation for final approvals Lead internal and external payroll audits and coordinate with cross-functional teams Leadership & Team ManagementManage and develop a team of payroll professionals, including training, coaching, and performance management Oversee daily workflow and departmental priorities to ensure service delivery standards are met Provide guidance and subject matter expertise to payroll staff on complex issues and escalations Evaluate team performance and provide regular feedback while keeping leadership informedProcess Improvement & StrategyIdentify opportunities to enhance payroll systems, processes, and controls Recommend and implement improvements to payroll technology and workflows Support the development and maintenance of standard operating procedures (SOPs) Partner with Time & Attendance teams to align payroll processes and initiatives Cross-Functional CollaborationWork closely with Compensation, Benefits, HRIS, Finance, and HR teams to ensure alignment and accuracy Interpret and apply company policies and regulatory requirements to payroll processes Provide updates to senior leadership on payroll operations, risks, and initiatives Support special projects and strategic initiatives as needed QualificationsBachelor's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field required; CPP or FPC certification preferred At least 10 years of progressive experience in payroll operations within complex, multi-jurisdictional environments At least 5 years of leadership experience managing and developing payroll teams on-site and remotelyStrong expertise in end-to-end in-house on-premises payroll processing, including establishing audit controls, GL reconciliation, and federal, state and local compliance regulationsExperience with ADP SmartCompliance platform Expert knowledge with SAP-based payroll environments Strong experience working with enterprise-level payroll platforms Experience with UKG (Ultimate Kronos Group) solutionsExperience supporting payroll across multiple regions, with cross-border exposure preferred Advanced Excel skills, including reporting, pivot tables, and data analysis Excellent written and oral communication skillsStrong proficiency in PowerPoint and presentationStrong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills High level of discretion with confidential information Physical Working ConditionsThis role is based in an onsite office environment Requires extended periods of sitting and working at a computer Must be able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment Occasional lifting of light office materials (up to 15 lbs.) may be required Quarterly travel required to support payroll operations and team alignment across locations