Lead Payroll Manager

Onward Search is a specialized staffing and talent solutions company that helps professionals find top jobs with the nation’s leading brands.

Our client is in search of a dynamic and experienced Payroll Manager / Payroll Lead to spearhead their payroll operations. This pivotal role requires a deep understanding of U.S. and Canadian payroll systems, with a focus on enhancing team capabilities and driving operational excellence. The successful candidate will be instrumental in ensuring precise, timely, and compliant payroll cycles, while also fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth within the team.

Responsibilities

• Team Leadership & Development: Mentor and coach our client's team, promoting a high-performance culture. Develop training materials to support team growth and ensure comprehensive cross-functional coverage.

• Payroll Operations: Oversee payroll processes for U.S. and Canadian employees, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. Manage payroll inputs, adjustments, and off-cycle payments.

• Tax Compliance & Controls: Ensure accurate tax reporting and compliance, including payroll tax filings and year-end processes. Collaborate with stakeholders to manage audits and maintain robust internal controls.

• Process Optimization: Identify and implement improvements to streamline operations and enhance efficiency. Collaborate with P&O, Finance, and IT teams to explore system upgrades and automation opportunities.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Act as the payroll subject matter expert, working closely with various departments to ensure data accuracy and alignment.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in U.S. payroll, including multi-state processing, and Canadian payroll.

• Strong knowledge of payroll laws and best practices.

• Proficiency with payroll systems such as UKG and Workday.

• Proven track record in process improvement and team leadership.

• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.

What You Bring

• A proactive, solution-oriented mindset with a focus on process excellence.

• Strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative approach to leadership.

• A commitment to confidentiality and continuous learning.

Perks & Benefits: 

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• 401k Program
• Commuter Benefit
• eLearning
• Education Reimbursement
• Ongoing Training & Development
• *To qualify for our benefits package, you must work over 30 hours per week and the length of assignment must be a minimum of 10 weeks.

To learn more about this Lead Payroll Manager opportunity, apply now. Our recruitment team will be in touch, guide you through the interview process, and advocate on your behalf.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE:  04/25/25

Employer Details:

• Onward Search is an equal opportunity employer, dedicated to a policy of non-discrimination in an employment with regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status or any other classification protected by federal, state and local laws and ordinances. Candidates must be at least 18 years old to be considered for employment. EOE/M/F/D/V/SO.
• In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.
• Onward Search is unable to support 1099 / Corp-to-Corp or Independent Contractor arrangements at this time. All freelancers will be paid as W2 employees.
• Onward Search offers medical, dental, vision benefits, as well as a 401k program, for all eligible full time temporary assignments.
• Onward Search is a drug-free workplace.
• Onward Search is a nationwide staffing agency and talent solutions provider specializing in creative, marketing and technology. Our clients are continuously turning to us to fill their open positions. Therefore, there is no application deadline for this position, as we are seeking candidates for this type of role across all our clients on an ongoing basis.