Payroll Manager

Miller’s Ale House is seeking a Payroll Manager to support payroll operations and lead strategic system enhancements in preparation for a future Human Capital Management (HCM) implementation. This role is critical in ensuring accurate, compliant payroll processing for approximately 8,000 employees across a multi-unit, nationwide restaurant organization, while also driving the execution of payroll and HCM system initiatives. The ideal candidate possesses in-depth payroll expertise, hands-on experience with multi-state payroll processing, and a proven track record of implementing complex payroll systems in a fast-paced, decentralized environment.Payroll OperationsManage and process end-to-end payroll for 8,000+ employees across multiple states, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations.Conduct thorough audits and reviews of payroll data before final approval and submission.Maintain and audit timekeeping systems, payroll records, and related documentation to ensure data integrity and compliance.Prepare and reconcile payroll reports for Finance, HR, and compliance purposes.Ensure timely and accurate tax filings, including resolution of payroll tax issues and discrepancies.Oversee the reconciliation and accurate processing of 401(k) contributions and other payroll-related deductions.Manage payroll-related general ledger activities, including reviewing and validating entries for accuracy.Issue Resolution & SupportServe as a point of contact for payroll inquiries, issue resolution, and support for field locations.Investigate and resolve pay discrepancies and other payroll-related issues reported by internal stakeholders.Manage and fulfill ad-hoc payroll requests from internal departments in a timely and accurate manner.Team Leadership & DocumentationTrain and mentor payroll coordinators on new processes, system updates, and operational best practices.Develop, maintain, and continuously improve payroll system documentation, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and training materials.System Implementation & OptimizationLead payroll system implementations, including requirements gathering, configuration, testing, and data migration.Act as the subject matter expert (SME) on payroll systems, payroll taxes, integrations, and workflow optimization.Partner cross-functionally with IT, HR, Finance, and external vendors to ensure accurate system setup and seamless operations.Identify and implement process improvements, leveraging automation and industry best practices.HCM Strategy & ReadinessSupport planning and future implementation of HCM payroll modules.Collaborate with internal stakeholders to align payroll processes with the broader HCM strategy.Assist with change management, training, and user adoption during system rollouts.Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field.5-7 years of progressive payroll experience, including direct responsibility for processing payroll.In-depth knowledge of payroll regulations, tax reporting, and compliance.Proven experience with payroll system implementations (e.g., Workday, ADP, UKG, Oracle HCM, SAP SuccessFactors, or similar platforms).Experience working in a multi-unit, national organization (restaurant, retail, or hospitality industry strongly preferred).Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.Excellent communication, supervisory and project management abilities.Professional certifications such as CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) preferred.

Created: 2025-10-04