Senior Manager, Payroll

PetSmart • Phoenix, AZ

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

This role is crucial in managing payroll processes and ensuring compliance with the law and government regulations (e.g., OT, final pay, wage and hour). This role requires collaboration, teamwork, and face-to-face interaction with colleagues, leaders, and/or clients. Being in the office ensures access to leaders, cross-functional partners, and resources necessary to make timely decisions and drive results. On-site presence in accordance with our FlexSmart policy supports our culture of innovation, mentorship, and engagement, which is integral to our success in developing the best team.

Requirements

• 10+ years of cumulative experience with U.S. and Canada hourly and salaried payroll processing in multi-state and multi-entity environments; additional countries a plus
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll regulations and tax laws
• Experience with payroll tax filings and reporting to appropriate agencies
• 5+ years of people management experience
• Must have strong problem-solving skills be able to maintain absolute confidentiality
• Have exceptional attention to detail
• Thrives in working in a fast-paced, time-sensitive environment
• Strong communication skills
• Payroll processing system understanding, SAP preferred
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and other Microsoft Office products
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize and meet deadlines
• Proven experience in designing, implementing, and continuously optimizing payroll processes and internal controls
• Bachelor's degree in business, accounting, or finance

Nice To Haves

• CPP certification preferred
• Union dues processing preferred
• Commission-based pay preferred

Responsibilities

• Maintains exemplary confidentiality, sensitivity, and data security standards for all payroll-related information
• Manages the full cycle payroll process for North America, including payroll tax reporting, compliance, and remittance
• Provides oversight and direction for the overall payroll function to ensure accurate and timely delivery of payroll services
• Drives best practices and process optimization as the subject matter expert in payroll projects, including documentation and improvements
• Drives and participates in payroll testing as part of run-the-business and projects
• Ensures internal and external audits and reconciliations align with policies, procedures, and legal standards
• Guides, coaches, mentors, and develops payroll staff
• Oversees and partners with external vendors involved in payroll processing
• Builds partnerships with internal and external payroll stakeholders to define and develop successful, scalable processes and practices
• Leads internal controls and documentation in accordance with SOX
• Ensures that payroll records and information are maintained in accordance with statutory requirements
• Provides excellent customer service and support to address pay-related inquiries and concerns
• Stays up to date on payroll regulations, tax laws, and industry trends, implementing necessary changes to ensure compliance and best practices

Benefits

• Pet friendly environment, bring your pets to work!
• On-site Dog Park
• “Top Dog” gym with equipment, fitness classes, massage therapists and personal trainers
• “Sit & Stay” Café serving fresh breakfast and lunch options
• On-site coffee bar
• “Lil’ Paws” learning center and onsite daycare facility (associate paid)
• Volunteer events with PetSmart Charities

What This Job Offers

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