Global Payroll Manager

About the role

The Global Payroll Manager is responsible for defining, establishing, and governing the organization's global payroll strategy, standards, and operating framework. While this role directly oversees payroll operations, payroll tax, and conducts payroll processsing for the United States and Canada, it does not manage day-to-day payroll processing in other countries. Instead, it provides global leadership through strategy development, governance, vendor oversight, risk management, and cross-functional partnership to ensure consistent, compliant, and scalable payroll practices worldwide. This role serves as the global payroll subject-matter expert and strategic architect, partnering closely with regional HR, Finance, Legal, Global Mobility, and external payroll providers. Essential Functions Global Payroll Strategy & Governance Design and own the global payroll strategy, including operating model, governance structure, and long-term roadmap Establish global payroll standards, policies, controls, and documentation to ensure consistency across regions Define global payroll compliance and risk management frameworks, including audit readiness and internal controls Develop governance models for vendor management, escalation, and decision-making across countries Global Oversight & Partnership Provide strategic oversight of in-country and regional payroll providers without direct operational management Partner with regional HR and Finance leaders to ensure adherence to global standards while respecting local requirements Serve as the global escalation point for complex payroll issues, compliance risks, or regulatory changes Monitor global payroll performance through KPIs, SLAs, and governance U.S. & Canada Payroll Leadership Oversee and process end-to-end payroll operations for the U.S. and Canada, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and regulatory compliance Provide oversight of payroll tax compliance, including governance, controls, filings, remittances, reconciliations, and audit readiness. Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements through effective processes, documentation, and vendor management. Ensure alignment between North America payroll operations and global payroll standards Lead audits, reconciliations, and year-end activities for U.S. and Canada payroll Technology & Vendor Strategy Define the global payroll technology strategy, including system selection, integrations, and future-state architecture Lead global payroll vendor strategy, including RFPs, contract negotiations, consolidation efforts, and governance Partner with HRIS and Finance teams to ensure global data integrity, reporting, and system interoperability Stakeholder Engagement & Leadership Act as a trusted advisor to senior HR and Finance leadership on global payroll matters Translate complex regulatory and operational topics into clear insights for executive decision-making Lead global payroll change initiatives, including standardization, transformation, and scalability efforts Required Skills/Abilities Strong understanding of payroll compliance, tax regulations, data privacy, and governance models Hands-on experience with U.S. and Canadian payroll operations Proven experience working with global payroll vendors and in-country providers Experience with global payroll and HR systems (e.g., Dayforce, Workday, ADP, SAP, or similar) Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a strong focus on discretion and confidentiality. Strong analytical, organization, project management, and problem-solving skills. Proven ability to conduct root-cause analysis and drive continuous improvement. Experience handling complex payroll inquiries. Ability to multi-task and prioritize work on various projects simultaneously. Ability to work independently as well in a team environment. Advanced skills with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word). Proficiency in understanding complex plan documents and insurance contracts. Detail-oriented with a strong focus on accuracy. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. Proven project management experience. The ability to handle confidential information with discretion. Education: Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field (or equivalent experience)

Requirements

• 8-10+ years of progressive payroll experience, including global payroll strategy or multi-country oversight
• Experience with global payroll and HR systems (e.g., Workday, AD

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Company Intel

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