Director, Payroll

Smartsheet•Bellevue, WA

2d•$165,000 - $210,000

About The Position

Smartsheet is seeking a strategic, forward-thinking Director, Payroll to own, improve, and manage global payroll processes. The role leads a global team and shapes payroll strategy and operations in partnership with cross-functional teams, delivering payroll for employees while supporting company growth and global expansion. It requires strong leadership, extensive knowledge of global payroll practices, and the ability to navigate complex payroll landscapes. The position reports to the VP, Accounting Transformation & IA. The Director oversees end-to-end payroll operations, compliance, reporting, payroll systems, and process improvements across multiple states and countries. The role also collaborates with HR, Finance, and IT, leads payroll-related projects, and serves as a primary contact for complex inquiries and escalated issues.

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.
A proven track record of building, managing, and developing a high-performing payroll team.
In-depth knowledge of federal, state, local, and international payroll laws and regulations.
Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, including the ability to influence and collaborate across organizational levels.
Strong attention to detail, accuracy, and commitment to data integrity.
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities in complex, fast-paced, evolving environments.
Ability to handle highly confidential information with discretion and integrity.
Experience with AI or willingness to assess and leverage AI as applicable.
Based within commuting distance of Smartsheet’s Bellevue office.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree or relevant advanced certification.
Experience in a SaaS or high-growth global technology company.
Significant 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.
Build stakeholder relationships and foster 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 global payroll laws and regulations and implement necessary system and process updates.
Prepare and analyze payroll reports for management, Finance, and other stakeholders, providing actionable insights.
Lead the 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 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 employee contributions 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 and short- and long-term disability plans for US employees.
12 paid holidays per year for US 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 locations in the U.S., depending on the role.
Market-competitive incentive opportunity.