Assistant Payroll Manager

Group 1 Automotive, Inc.•Houston, TX

About The Position

The Assistant Payroll Manager leads, executes, and continuously improves payroll operations for Group 1 Automotive’s multi-state, multi-entity organization. The role oversees payroll processing, staff, system integrity, compliance, and operational controls to ensure accurate and timely payroll delivery. It partners with Human Resources, Accounting, Finance, Treasury, operational leaders, and external vendors on payroll administration, tax compliance, process optimization, and employee satisfaction. As a leader within Payroll Services, the Assistant Payroll Manager guides and develops team members while ensuring compliance with company policies, payroll regulations, and internal controls. The position promotes efficient, consistent, and continually improving payroll operations in support of the organization’s growth and strategic objectives.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field strongly preferred; equivalent experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
At least 5 years of experience if substituting equivalent experience for a degree.
At least 2 years of payroll experience in a corporate or multi-location environment.
Experience supervising, guiding, coaching, or overseeing payroll staff.
In-depth understanding of payroll regulations and tax laws.
Hands-on experience with payroll and timekeeping systems such as Workday or similar platforms.
Advanced proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy and process discipline.
Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.

Nice To Haves

Payroll certification such as FPC or CPP.

Responsibilities

Manage and oversee accurate, timely weekly, bi-weekly, and semi-monthly payroll processing for a large multi-state, multi-entity organization.
Lead, coach, develop, and support payroll team members through training, performance management, career development, and operational guidance.
Ensure accurate and compliant processing of new hires, terminations, pay changes, deductions, garnishments, and other employee updates.
Oversee payroll tax, settlement, funding, and year-end processes in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations.
Maintain and improve payroll system integrity, including integrations with timekeeping, benefits, HRIS, and downstream financial systems.
Review payroll audits, reconciliations, exception reporting, and controls to ensure accuracy and data integrity.
Prepare and review payroll accruals, account reconciliations, and general ledger interfaces with Accounting and Finance.
Resolve complex payroll inquiries, issues, and employee concerns as an escalation point.
Partner with Human Resources, Accounting, Finance, Treasury, Information Technology, and third-party vendors to support payroll operations and system effectiveness.
Develop, maintain, and enforce payroll policies, procedures, internal controls, and documentation.
Monitor compliance with wage and hour laws, payroll tax regulations, and company policies.
Support year-end payroll activities, including W-2 processing, balancing, reconciliation, and employee communications.
Lead payroll system testing, implementation activities, acquisitions, integrations, and process improvement initiatives.
Analyze payroll metrics, operational trends, and service levels to identify opportunities to improve efficiency, accuracy, and customer service.
Maintain confidentiality of employee, payroll, and company information.
Promote accountability, collaboration, continuous learning, and exceptional customer service within Payroll Services.
Support strategic payroll initiatives and perform other duties as assigned.