Senior Manager, Payroll

Catalyst Family•Morgan Hill, CA

12d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Sr. Manager, Payroll is responsible for overseeing all aspects of payroll operations for the organization, ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant processing of employee compensation. This role manages payroll staff, maintains payroll systems, and collaborates with Human Resources (HR), Finance and Accounting, and external partners to ensure payroll processes align with organizational goals and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

Associate’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
7-10 years’ experience with payroll
3+ years’ experience managing a team
Computer proficiency in general office software
Experience with payroll systems such as Paycom, UKG, ADP, Workday, or similar
Strong knowledge of payroll laws, regulations, and compliance requirements

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
5+ years’ experience managing a team
Excellent leadership, communication, and analytical skills
Effective verbal and written communication skills
Good interpersonal skills
High attention to details
Ability to prioritize, multi-task and work within a tight time schedule

Responsibilities

Oversee end-to-end payroll processing for all employee types (salaried, hourly, contract), ensuring accuracy and timeliness
Ensure proper calculation of wages, overtime, deductions, and benefits in compliance with organizational policies
Manage payroll system configuration and employee records, including department and fund allocations
Establish and maintain payroll schedules and calendars, ensuring timely payroll execution and reporting
Review, approve, and audit payroll transactions and exceptions to ensure accuracy and internal control
Ensure accurate payroll accounting, including proper general ledger coding, reconciliations, and expense allocations
Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including wage and hour laws and tax requirements
Prepare and file payroll tax returns and regulatory reports accurately and on time
Support internal and external audits, providing documentation, reconciliations, and schedules
Supervise and develop payroll staff, including training, performance management, and issue resolution
Lead payroll process improvements and implement best practices, policies, and procedures
Partner cross-functionally with HR and Finance on benefits, timekeeping, onboarding/offboarding, and reporting
Serve as the primary payroll subject matter expert, advising leadership, responding to inquiries, and liaising with auditors, CPAs, and regulatory agencies
Perform other duties that are reasonably related to the position’s key responsibilities and are consistent with the employee’s job classification, skills, and training