Director of Payroll and Accounts Payable - Tucson, AZ (Corporate-Bonita)

Intermountain Centers•Tucson, AZ

About The Position

The Director of Payroll and Accounts Payable is responsible for the strategic leadership, management, and oversight of the organization’s payroll and accounts payable functions. This role ensures accurate, timely, and compliant processing of payroll, vendor payments, tax filings, and financial reporting while driving operational excellence, automation, and continuous improvement. The Director partners closely with HR, Accounting, Operations, and external partners to support company initiatives and maintain strong internal controls.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field (Master’s preferred).
8+ years of payroll and/or accounts payable experience, including 3–5 years in a leadership role.
Strong understanding of payroll regulations, tax compliance, accounting principles, and AP best practices.
Experience with ERP and payroll systems
Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage complex operations, and partner cross-functionally.
Strong analytical skills, a process-improvement mindset, and proficiency with Excel and financial systems.
Excellent communication, problem‑solving, and organizational skills.
Minimum 18 years of age.
Valid AZ DPS Level I fingerprint clearance card (must maintain valid card throughout employment)
CPR, First Aid, AED certification, if required (must maintain throughout employment).
Current, valid Driver’s License and 39-month Motor Vehicle Report and proof of vehicle registration liability insurance to meet insurance requirements
Initial current negative TB test result, if required (Employer provides).

Nice To Haves

Master’s preferred

Responsibilities

Oversee full-cycle payroll operations for all employees, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely processing.
Ensure payroll is processed in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations, including FLSA, wage and hour laws, garnishments, and tax requirements.
Manage relationships with payroll vendors and technology partners.
Lead payroll tax filings and year-end processes, including W‑2 and 1099 distribution, and support audits as needed.
Develop and maintain payroll policies, standardized workflows, and internal controls.
Partner with HR to ensure accurate employee data, benefits integration, and compensation updates.
Direct AP operations, including invoice processing, vendor onboarding, payment execution, and employee expense reimbursements.
Ensure timely and accurate payments to vendors while maintaining strong vendor relationships.
Maintain AP compliance with accounting standards, tax requirements (including 1099 reporting), and internal policies.
Optimize procure-to-pay processes through automation and system enhancements.
Manage AP aging, cash flow forecasting, and weekly payment runs.
Prepare and deliver accurate reporting on payroll costs, vendor spend, accruals, and other key financial metrics to facilitate timely and accurate month‑end closing activities
Ensure strong internal controls and compliance with GAAP, SOX (if applicable), and organizational policies.
Coordinate with internal and external auditors for payroll and AP audits.
Ensure data integrity, security, and proper system administration for payroll and AP platforms.
Lead, mentor, and develop payroll and AP staff, fostering a culture of accountability, accuracy, and service excellence.
Establish performance metrics and KPIs to monitor efficiency and process quality.
Identify opportunities for digital transformation and workflow improvement.
Develop and manage department budgets and staffing plans.