Payroll Manager

Description We are looking for an experienced Payroll Manager to oversee complex payroll operations for a global workforce based in Waltham, Massachusetts. This Long-term Contract position requires a strong leader who can drive accurate, timely, and compliant payroll execution across multiple countries while working closely with HR, Finance, and external service providers. The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge of full-cycle payroll, multi-state processing, and large employee populations, along with hands-on experience using ADP Workforce Now.

Responsibilities:

• Direct payroll delivery across domestic and international locations, ensuring employees are paid correctly and on schedule in alignment with regional regulations and internal standards.
• Coordinate with external payroll providers to monitor performance, resolve processing issues, and maintain strong service outcomes against agreed expectations.
• Safeguard compliance by reviewing payroll practices against country-specific tax rules, statutory obligations, and employment requirements.
• Work closely with HR and Finance partners to support workforce changes, compensation updates, budgeting activities, and other events that affect payroll accuracy.
• Manage payroll close activities at month-end and year-end, including account reconciliations, payroll reporting, and preparation of related financial entries.
• Analyze payroll processes to identify improvement opportunities, strengthen controls, and enhance operational efficiency across regions.
• Investigate and resolve payroll discrepancies, escalations, and employee inquiries with a high level of accuracy and professionalism. Requirements
• Proven experience managing full-cycle payroll operations for large employee populations, including environments with more than 500 employees.
• Strong background in multi-state payroll administration and knowledge of payroll practices across multiple jurisdictions.
• Experience overseeing international or global payroll processes with a solid understanding of compliance considerations.
• Hands-on proficiency with ADP Workforce Now and related payroll systems.
• Ability to partner effectively with HR, Finance, and third-party vendors in a fast-paced business setting.
• Strong analytical skills with attention to detail and the ability to manage reconciliations, reporting, and issue resolution.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills, with the ability to handle sensitive payroll information confidentially.

Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles. Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/mobile-app) and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more. All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information. © 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking "," you're agreeing to Robert Half's Terms of Use (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/terms) and Privacy Notice (https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/privacy) .