Payroll Manager

Overview

This role involves leading payroll operations to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant payroll processing for a multi-state workforce. The Payroll Manager oversees end-to-end payroll processing, manages payroll-related tax and compliance activities, supports audits, and partners with HR and Finance to maintain controls and deliver high-quality service.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end payroll processing for a multi-state workforce in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Oversee payroll tax filings, wage garnishments, benefit deductions, stock/equity transactions, and other specialized pay considerations.
• Ensure SOX compliance, maintain audit-ready documentation, and support internal/external audits related to payroll.
• Lead payroll systems administration and partner with HRIS to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and data integrity.
• Lead quarter-end and year-end payroll activities, including W-2 processing and distribution.
• Manage payroll tax setup, compliance, and resolution of complex federal and multi-state tax issues.
• Handle tax notices and maintain relationships with federal, state, and local agencies.
• Oversee amendments, including W-2C processing.
• Generate and analyze payroll reports for Payroll, Finance, HR, and senior leadership.
• Partner with Finance on GL reporting, accruals, and discrepancy resolution.
• Support strategic HR and Payroll projects (e.g., system implementations, compliance initiatives, process harmonization).
• Develop and implement payroll policies, procedures, and controls aligned with corporate governance requirements for a publicly traded company.
• Monitor legislative and regulatory changes affecting payroll and recommend process adjustments as needed.
• Partner with HR and Finance teams on reporting, budgeting, and payroll-related analytics.
• Provide guidance, training, and support to payroll staff to promote accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Serve as the point of escalation for complex payroll issues and employee inquiries, ensuring timely resolution and excellent service.
• Provide responsive, high-quality support to stores and internal stakeholders on payroll matters.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 7+ years of payroll experience, including at least 3 years in a management or supervisory role.
• Experience managing payroll for a multi-state workforce; public company experience strongly preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations, wage & hour laws, and reporting requirements.
• Strong knowledge of payroll systems (e.g., Workday, ADP, Oracle, or similar) and HRIS/financial system integrations.
• Demonstrated experience with SOX compliance and audit support.
• CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) designation preferred.
• Exceptional analytical, organizational, and communication skills, with the ability to operate in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to hold meetings and perform training in small and large groups; strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in or knowledge of computer software applications such as Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint; ADP Workforce Now.
• Physical: Ability to stay in a sitting position for most of the working day while looking at a computer monitor.
• Travel: As needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) designation preferred.
• Public company payroll experience strongly preferred.

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary range: $100,000-$145,000
• Bonus: Target bonus of 10% of base pay
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 24/7 telehealth and wellness resources
• Personalized benefits advocacy and support
• Expert second opinions and access to leading specialists
• 401(k) with a 50% company match up to 6%, and financial protection benefits
• Flexible PTO and 11 paid holidays
• Mental health, family care, and financial wellness resources

Additional note: Our compensation reflects the cost of labor across US geographic markets. Starting pay will vary based on multiple factors, including location, knowledge, skills, education, and experience. Pay ranges may be modified in the future.

Location

• Hybrid if located near Albany, NY or remote if not local

Position Details

• Full-time

Equal Opportunity / Drug-Free Workplace

Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Drug-Free Workplace Employer. Offers of employment are subject to applicable pre-employment requirements.