Director, Payroll

Smartsheet • Bellevue, WA

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

Smartsheet is seeking a strategic and forward-thinking Director, Payroll to own, improve, and manage global payroll processes. The role leads a global team and shapes payroll strategy and operations, partnering with cross-functional teams to deliver accurate, timely payroll for employees while supporting the company’s growth and global expansion. The position reports to the VP, Accounting Transformation & IA. Candidates must be within commuting distance of Smartsheet’s Bellevue office; teleworking options may be available from registered locations in the U.S., depending on the role.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive payroll experience, including at least 5 years in a leadership or management role.
• Hands-on experience implementing, configuring, and optimizing major global payroll systems.
• Expertise managing international payroll operations across multiple countries, including global tax implications and compliance requirements.
• Demonstrated ability to build, manage, and develop a high-performing payroll team.
• In-depth knowledge of federal, state, local, and international payroll laws and regulations.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across organizational levels.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and data integrity.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• Ability to handle highly confidential information with discretion and integrity.
• Experience with AI or willingness to assess and leverage AI as applicable.
• Candidates must be within commuting distance of Smartsheet’s Bellevue office.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree or relevant advanced certification.
• Experience at a SaaS or high-growth global technology company.
• Extensive experience with ADP or similar large-scale payroll software, such as Workday, SAP SuccessFactors, or Ceridian Dayforce.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) certification is highly preferred.
• Global Payroll Management Certificate (GPMI) is a strong asset.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing global payroll team, fostering continuous improvement, accuracy, and exceptional service.
• Set strategic goals and objectives for the payroll department in alignment with company strategy and operational demands.
• Develop stakeholder relationships and promote cross-functional collaboration.
• Oversee end-to-end processing of complex multi-state and international payrolls, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance.
• Ensure compliance with federal, state, local, and international payroll laws and regulations, including timely payroll tax filings, W-2s, and equivalent international tax documentation.
• Monitor changes in payroll laws and regulations globally and implement necessary updates to systems and processes.
• Prepare and analyze payroll reports for management, Finance, and other stakeholders, providing actionable insights.
• Lead evaluation, selection, implementation, and optimization of payroll systems.
• Collaborate with HR, Finance, and IT to streamline processes, integrate systems, and improve the employee experience.
• Drive payroll-related projects, including system migrations, new-country expansions, and M&A integrations.
• Serve as the primary contact for complex payroll inquiries from senior leaders, employees, and managers across regions.
• Resolve escalated payroll issues promptly, accurately, and professionally while maintaining employee satisfaction.

Benefits

• Employer-subsidized medical, vision, and dental coverage for full-time employees.
• 401(k) match: 50% of the employee’s contribution up to the first 6% of eligible pay.
• Monthly stipend to support work and productivity.
• Flexible Time Away Program and sick time off.
• Company-sponsored life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage for U.S. employees.
• 12 paid holidays per year for U.S. employees.
• Up to 24 weeks of parental leave.
• Personal paid volunteer day.
• Professional growth and development opportunities, including access to Udemy online courses.
• Company-funded perks, including a counseling membership, local retail discounts, and a personal Smartsheet account.
• Teleworking options from registered U.S. locations, depending on the role.
• Market-competitive incentive opportunity.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director