Manager, Payroll

What You’ll Do 

We’re looking for a Payroll Manager to oversee payroll operations for all Strivers. The Payroll Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing the organization's payroll operations to ensure employees are paid accurately and on time while maintaining compliance with all federal, state, and local payroll regulations. This role leads the payroll administration function, supervises payroll staff, manages payroll systems, coordinates with People Operations and Finance, and ensures strong internal controls and confidentiality of employee data. This is a hands-on role for someone who enjoys solving complex challenges with innovative, compliant, and efficient solutions. At Strive, we believe payroll is more than just getting people paid—it is about building trust, ensuring fairness, and supporting our team. If you are excited about scaling systems, owning processes, and making a real impact, we would love to meet you! 

Key Responsibilities:

Payroll Processing 

• Manage and oversee the bi-weekly, multi-state payroll process for 800+ employees, including regular payrolls, off-cycle payments, bonuses, and special payments. 
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of payroll in accordance with company policies and applicable laws.  
• Review payroll data, calculations, deductions, earnings, and tax withholdings for accuracy. 
• Process and validate employee status changes including hires, terminations, promotions, transfers, and leaves of absence. 
• Ensure all hours, incentives, and pay are correctly entered and calculated in payroll management system. 

Compliance & Tax Reporting 

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local payroll laws and regulations. 
• Oversee payroll tax registrations, filings, payments, and reconciliations in new and existing counties and states. 
• Manage year-end payroll activities including W-2 preparation and distribution. 
• Coordinate and support payroll-related audits and government inquiries. 
• Stay informed of legislative and regulatory changes affecting payroll practices. 

Payroll Systems & Controls 

• Maintain payroll systems and ensure data integrity, security, and confidentiality. 
• Develop, implement, and monitor payroll policies, procedures, and internal controls. 
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and automation. 
• Partner with People Operations and Finance to optimize payroll-related systems and processes. 

Accounting & Reconciliation 

• Reconcile payroll-related general ledger accounts. 
• Prepare payroll journal entries and support monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close activities. 
• Analyze payroll reports and provide management with relevant payroll metrics and information. 
• Support budgeting and forecasting activities related to payroll expenses and workforce costs. 

Leadership & Team Management 

• Lead, train, develop, and evaluate payroll staff. 
• Establish performance goals and ensure high levels of customer service. 
• Serve as the primary escalation point for complex payroll issues and employee inquiries. 
• Partner with People Operations, Finance, and external vendors to resolve payroll-related matters and ensure efficient processes. 
• Train employees and managers on payroll systems (e.g., time tracking, pay stub access)  
• Support employee questions regarding pay, tax forms, and related topics. 
• Meet in person with internal and/or external stakeholders to facilitate team and business priorities/opportunities. Business travel may be required for opportunities to connect with stakeholders, serve patients, and attend Strive-sponsored team events. 

Minimum Requirements  

• 8+ years combined of related education and progressive payroll experience.
• 3+ years of experience managing multi-state payroll.  
• 3+ years of experience with payroll management systems such as Rippling, ADP, or similar platforms. 
• 2+ years of ERP experience such as NetSuite or Sage Intacct. 
• 2+ years of payroll leadership or supervisory experience. 
• Strong knowledge of payroll laws, taxes, and compliance standards.  
• Internet Connectivity - Min Speeds: 3.8Mbps/3.0Mbps (up/down): Latency <60 ms.  
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and payroll reporting tools. 
• Ability to travel and be on-site to meet business needs.  

Preferred Qualifications  

• Experience with Rippling Workforce Management System. 
• Experience with Netsuite ERP. 
• SHRM-CP, Certified Payroll Professional (CPP). 

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities 

• Strong knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, wage and hour requirements, and compliance standards. 
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills. 
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and payroll reporting tools. 
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy. 
• Ability to manage confidential information with discretion. 
• Excellent communication and customer service skills. 
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet strict deadlines. 
• Adept at staying cool under pressure and thrive on bringing order to chaos. 

Annual Base Salary Range: $85,500 - $104,000. This position is also eligible for a target annual bonus of 10%