Payroll Manager

Location:

Hybrid (3 days onsite / 2 days remote)

Employment Type:

Contract-to-Hire (3-6 months)About the OpportunityOur client, a well-established financial services organization, is seeking a Senior Payroll Manager to join their team on a contract-to-hire basis. This is a high-impact, highly visible role supporting a complex, multi-entity environment with direct exposure to executive leadership.

This position is ideal for someone who brings both a strong accounting foundation and deep payroll expertise, with experience operating in larger, structured organizations and implementing best-in-class practices.

Position OverviewThe Senior Payroll Manager will oversee payroll accounting, compliance, and quality control across multiple entities. This role will ensure the integrity of payroll-related financial data, strengthen controls, and elevate processes through standardization and automation.

This is not a transactional payroll role. The ideal candidate will operate as a strategic leader, bringing structure, accountability, and a clear 'what good looks like' mindset to the function.

Key ResponsibilitiesOversee payroll accounting, including reconciliations and general ledger tie-outsLead compliance and quality control across all payroll-related processesPerform pre-payroll validations and post-payroll reconciliation reviewsEnsure accurate data flow into the system of record (Oracle environment)Analyze payroll data and investigate variances with a strong 'tie-out' mindsetPartner with external payroll processing providers (ADP environment) to validate accuracy and completenessSupport multiple payroll input streams across various entitiesDrive process improvements, automation initiatives, and standardization effortsEstablish and implement best-in-class payroll and payroll accounting practicesCollaborate cross-functionally with internal teams and leadership stakeholdersProvide insights and recommendations to improve controls, compliance, and reporting accuracyRequired QualificationsStrong background in accounting + payroll (must have both)Proven experience in payroll accounting, not just payroll processingHands-on experience working within an ADP payroll environmentAdvanced account reconciliation skills with the ability to trace and explain variancesExperience working in a large, complex organization with multiple entities or data streamsDemonstrated ability to implement best practices, controls, and process improvementsStrong understanding of payroll compliance and internal controlsAbility to interact confidently with senior leadership, including CFO-level stakeholdersAnalytical, detail-oriented, and naturally curious