Director of Payroll

LHH

New York, NY

Director of Payroll

Hybrid in Manhattan (3 days in-office)

A leading sports organization here in Manhattan is seeking a Director of Payroll to oversee and modernize payroll operations across a complex, multi-entity environment. This is a highly visible leadership role responsible for ensuring accurate, timely payroll processing while serving as a strategic partner to Finance, HR, and executive leadership.

The ideal candidate is hands-on, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-volume environment with both salaried and hourly populations, including seasonal or variable workforce structures.

Key Responsibilities

Oversee end-to-end payroll processing across multiple pay groups (e.g., weekly, bi-weekly, multi-state)
Ensure payroll accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations
Manage payroll reconciliations, audits, and reporting, identifying and resolving discrepancies proactively
Establish and maintain strong internal controls and documentation standards
Lead payroll system optimization, enhancements, and implementations, including integration with HRIS and finance platforms
Drive process improvements to increase efficiency, scalability, and automation
Partner with Finance on payroll forecasting, budgeting, and variance analysis
Develop and deliver reporting and analytics to support leadership decision-making
Ensure compliance with applicable wage and hour laws, tax regulations, and reporting requirements
Oversee audits, filings, and year-end processes (W-2s, tax filings, etc.)
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of payroll regulations, particularly within unionized environments
Lead and develop payroll staff, providing mentorship and performance guidance
Partner closely with HR and Total Rewards on benefits, deductions, and employee lifecycle events (onboarding, offboarding, leave)
Collaborate with IT and external vendors to ensure system integrity and data accuracy

Qualifications

10–15+ years of progressive payroll experience, including leadership responsibilities
Proven experience managing payroll in a complex, multi-entity and/or high-volume environment
Hands-on experience with ADP Workforce Now (ADP WFN) is required
Direct experience supporting union payroll environments is required
Demonstrated experience with payroll implementations, integrations, or system upgrades
Deep understanding of payroll compliance, audits, and reporting
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and process improvement mindset

Compensation & Growth

Salary range of $140,000-$160,000, commensurate with experience.
Competitive benefits package: medical, vision, dental and 401k match offered.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

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