Payroll Manager

Pet Food Experts,LLC•Pawtucket, RI

just now•Hybrid

About The Position

At Pet Food Experts (PFX), payroll isn’t just about numbers—it’s about trust. When people get paid accurately and on time, it allows them to focus on what they do best: supporting our customers, our partners, and each other. We’re looking for a Payroll Manager to own and elevate our payroll operations for approximately 1,200 employees across multiple states. This role is ideal for someone who thrives on precision, values compliance, and takes pride in building strong, reliable systems that work quietly and flawlessly behind the scenes. You’ll lead end-to-end payroll processing, manage one direct report, and serve as a key partner to Accounting, Finance, HR, and our payroll service providers.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
5+ years of progressive payroll experience, including multi-state payroll
Prior supervisory or management experience
Strong knowledge of payroll compliance, tax regulations, and audit practices
Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and integrity

Nice To Haves

Experience with large payroll systems (Paylocity experience a plus)

Responsibilities

Lead accurate, compliant payroll processing
Own the full payroll cycle, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and regulatory compliance
Review and approve payroll transactions including wages, deductions, garnishments, and tax withholdings
Build and maintain strong controls
Establish and refine payroll policies, procedures, and internal controls
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations and reporting requirements
Lead payroll audits and proactively mitigate risk
Drive reconciliation and accuracy
Perform payroll and general ledger reconciliations
Identify, investigate, and resolve discrepancies
Oversee year-end activities including W-2 and ACA reporting
Lead and support
Supervise and provide oversight for one Payroll Administrator
Ensure consistency, accountability, and operational excellence
Partner cross-functionally
Collaborate with Accounting, Finance, HR, and external vendors
Maintain relationships with payroll service providers and tax agencies
Review approved expense reports for compliance with the PFX Travel Policy