Payroll Dayforce System Implementation Lead

Overview

A client is seeking a Payroll Dayforce System Implementation Lead (Senior Manager) for a 6-month contract role. The position is preferred to be based in San Francisco, CA, with remote work possible. Travel to San Francisco is required. Working hours align with Pacific (California) time.

Responsibilities

• Lead participation in a global payroll transformation project, consolidating payrolls from multiple vendors into a unified global provider.
• Assist with User Acceptance Testing (UAT) and parallel testing for US and Canada payroll systems.
• Lead the Australia system implementation, including planning, requirements gathering, testing, data validation, cutover, and go-live.
• Partner with technical and IT teams to support the build and implementation of approximately 15 global integrations from third-party systems into the global payroll platform.
• Critically review new global payroll processes to ensure local requirements are identified and addressed.
• Collaborate with HR, Finance, Benefits, Technical and IT teams, and external vendors to ensure data accuracy.
• Assist with migration and validation of data from legacy payroll systems into the new global payroll platform or data storage application.
• Develop and document payroll processes, policies, and controls to ensure compliance with local regulations and company standards.
• Facilitate adoption of new technology, systems, and processes through change management, training, and stakeholder engagement.
• Prepare and present regular project updates and payroll reports to senior leadership.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of payroll data and ensure robust data security practices.

Requirements

• Degree in a business-related discipline.
• Minimum 12 years of payroll experience, including at least 6 years in a managerial role within a fast-paced, high-volume, high-growth multinational company.
• Experience leading payroll operations for the US, Canada, and Australia.
• Proven track record leading payroll transformation or system implementation projects with seamless integration and user adoption.
• Extensive experience with stock payroll components such as RSUs, options, and ESPP.
• Strong project management, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and stakeholder management abilities.
• High attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy.
• Focus on continuous improvement and standardization of payroll operations and systems.
• Self-motivated, flexible, and able to work under pressure.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional payroll certification (e.g., CPP or equivalent).
• Project management certification.
• Experience with large corporate payroll systems such as UKG, Dayforce, ADP, or Workday.
• Experience managing payroll for globally mobile employees and in-country providers.
• Experience with change management in complex, fast-paced environments.
• Experience working as part of a geographically dispersed team.

Location

• Preferred location: San Francisco, CA
• Remote work possible with required travel to San Francisco
• Working hours aligned with Pacific (California) time zone

Contract Details

• Duration: 6 months
• Contract position