Payroll Manager

Springs Window Fashions•Middleton, WI

12d

About The Position

The Payroll Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing all payroll functions to ensure the accurate, timely, and compliant processing of employee compensation. This role leads payroll operations, ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, manages payroll systems and controls, supports audits, and partners with Human Resources, Finance, Accounting, Tax, and external vendors to deliver efficient payroll services. The Payroll Manager is also responsible for developing payroll policies, maintaining internal controls, and driving continuous process improvements.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Human Resources, or a related field preferred. An equivalent combination of education and payroll experience may be considered.
5+ years of progressive payroll experience.
2+ years of payroll leadership or supervisory experience.
Experience with payroll tax compliance and reporting requirements.
Experience managing multi-state, unionized, or international payrolls preferred.
Experience with ERP, HRIS, and payroll platforms such as SAP, Workday, Oracle, UKG, ADP, or Ceridian Dayforce.
Strong knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, and wage and hour requirements.
Expertise in payroll systems, HRIS applications, and Microsoft Excel.
Understanding of accounting principles and general ledger processes.
Experience with payroll reporting and data analysis.
Strong people management and coaching skills.
Ability to lead through change and manage multiple priorities.
Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to explain complex payroll matters to employees and management.
Strong stakeholder management skills.
High attention to detail and accuracy.
Excellent time management and prioritization abilities.
Ability to manage confidential information with discretion.

Nice To Haves

Experience managing multi-state, unionized, or international payrolls.
Payroll certification preferred: Certified Payroll Professional (CPP), Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC), or Certified Payroll Manager (CPM).

Responsibilities

Manage the end-to-end payroll process for all employees, including regular, off-cycle, bonus, commission, and termination payrolls.
Ensure accurate calculation and payment of wages, salaries, overtime, shift premiums, incentives, and other compensation.
Review and approve payroll data prior to processing.
Monitor payroll schedules and ensure payroll deadlines are consistently met.
Oversee payroll reconciliations and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.
Manage garnishments, levies, child support orders, and other mandatory deductions.
Ensure proper handling of retroactive pay adjustments and payroll corrections.
Ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local payroll regulations.
Maintain knowledge of changes in payroll legislation, tax laws, labor regulations, and reporting requirements.
Ensure accurate withholding, remittance, and reporting of payroll taxes.
Coordinate preparation and filing of annual tax documents, including W-2s and 1099s, and year-end filings.
Support internal and external audits and respond to regulatory inquiries.
Serve as the primary administrator for payroll systems and related technologies.
Manage payroll integrations with HRIS, timekeeping, benefits, and accounting systems.
Lead payroll system upgrades, testing, and implementation projects.
Develop and maintain payroll procedures, controls, and documentation.
Identify opportunities to automate and streamline payroll processes.
Reconcile payroll accounts with the general ledger.
Prepare payroll accruals and support month-end and year-end close activities.
Analyze payroll-related expenses and reporting metrics.
Generate payroll reports for Finance, HR, leadership, and external stakeholders.
Support budgeting and forecasting activities related to labor costs.
Lead, mentor, and develop payroll staff.
Establish department goals, performance standards, and service-level expectations.
Provide training on payroll procedures and compliance requirements.
Manage workload distribution and ensure adequate staffing coverage.
Foster a culture of accuracy, accountability, and customer service.
Act as an escalation point for complex payroll inquiries.
Partner with HR to resolve employee compensation and payroll concerns.
Ensure payroll information is communicated clearly and professionally.
Maintain confidentiality of employee payroll and compensation data.