Sr. Payroll Director

Description Senior Director of Payroll Overview A large, complex, and growing organization is seeking a Senior Director of Payroll to lead payroll operations across the U.S. and Canada. This role oversees payroll processing for a highly distributed workforce that includes full-time, part-time, and high-volume seasonal employees across multiple entities and jurisdictions. This leader will operate both strategically and hands-on, strengthening the payroll function, building team capability, improving processes, and ensuring accuracy, compliance, and scalability. The environment is fast-paced and operationally complex, making this an ideal role for a payroll leader who enjoys rolling up their sleeves while driving transformation. Key Responsibilities Payroll Operations & Execution + Oversee end-to-end payroll processing across all U.S. and Canadian entities + Maintain deep working knowledge of daily payroll operations to inform leadership decisions + Manage multiple payroll types and pay structures (hourly, salaried, bonuses, commissions, etc.) + Ensure payroll accuracy, timeliness, and data integrity across systems + Support high-volume seasonal ramps and complex pay cycles Compliance & Risk Management + Serve as the internal subject matter expert on payroll tax and wage & hour compliance + Ensure compliance with federal, state/provincial, and local regulations + Oversee payroll tax filings, garnishments, and third-party vendor relationships + Establish and enhance internal controls, audit processes, and approval workflows + Lead internal and external payroll audits and proactively mitigate risk Leadership & Team Development + Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing payroll team + Strengthen the team through clear role definition, accountability, and cross-training + Build redundancy and reduce single points of failure within payroll operations + Provide ongoing training on systems, compliance, and evolving best practices Systems, Process Improvement & Reporting + Own payroll systems and integrations, including large-scale time & attendance platforms + Drive process improvement initiatives, standardization, and documentation (SOPs) + Analyze payroll metrics and trends to improve accuracy, efficiency, and scalability + Partner with IT and Finance on system enhancements and optimization Cross-Functional Partnership + Collaborate closely with Finance, HR/People, and Operations leaders + Support acquisitions, integrations, and organizational growth initiatives + Act as a trusted advisor for payroll-related strategy, compliance, and problem-solving Special Projects + Support M& A due diligence, system implementations, and integration efforts + Assist with modernization of legacy payroll processes and platforms + Perform other duties as needed to support business growth Requirements Required Qualifications + Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field + 8+ years of progressive payroll experience, including 5+ years in payroll leadership + Experience processing payroll for + Deep knowledge of U.S. payroll tax, wage & hour laws, and compliance + Exposure to Canadian payroll or demonstrated ability to quickly learn cross-border requirements + Experience working in complex, high-volume, operationally driven environments + Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills + High level of discretion and confidentiality 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) .