Payroll & Benefits Manager

About the role

We are seeking a strategic and detail-oriented Payroll & Benefits Manager to provide oversight and leadership across payroll and benefits operations. This role is responsible for ensuring compliance, accuracy, and efficiency in partnership with internal teams and external vendors. The ideal candidate will lead a team of Payroll and Benefits professionals, manage relationships, guide process improvements, and ultimately serve as a subject matter expert in all areas. This is a hybrid position based in Houston, TX or Richmond, VA . As a part of the team, you will own and manage: Payroll Oversight Provide strategic oversight of payroll operations, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Supervise payroll team and external payroll partners to ensure proper processing of new hires, terminations, salary adjustments, bonuses, and deductions Partner with Finance to reconcile payroll transactions, support journal entries, and assist with budget planning Oversee payroll-related compliance activities including tax filings, W-2 reconciliations, and audit documentation. Maintain and update payroll policies, procedures, and training materials Support compensation analysis and ensure proper mapping of time and attendance data Benefits Program Management Manage the setup, structure, and strategy of employee benefit programs including health, dental, vision, life, disability, HSA, COBRA, 401K, and wellness initiatives, including annual updates to summary plan documents Lead Annual Enrollment and coordinate plan renewals and system updates Maintain vendor and third-party administrator relationships, ensuring accurate invoicing, data integrity, and timely issue resolution Ensure vendors/third-party administrators are equipped and responsive to employee inquiries Oversee leave management programs (FMLA, STD, LTD, etc.) and ensure compliance with applicable laws Assist Regional Total Rewards Manager in strengthening the benefits strategy, with you implementing and executing it Compliance & Reporting Ensure compliance with payroll tax regulations, ACA reporting, and benefits-related legislation Lead preparation and submission of all internal/external audits Validate payroll and benefits reports for reconciliation and strategic planning Stay informed on regulatory changes and recommend updates to policies and procedures Process Improvement & Collaboration Identify and implement improvements to payroll and benefits systems and workflows Collaborate with HR, Finance, and Marketing on initiatives including recognition programs M&A activity Prepare presentations and insights on benefits strategy for senior leadership What you know: You have a Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Accounting or a related field (or equivalent work experience), and: 7+ years of experience in payroll and/or benefits oversight preferred Strong understanding of HRIS systems, payroll platforms, and benefits administration Excellent communication, analytical, and vendor management skills Proven ability to lead cross-functional initiatives and ensure compliance Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) Experience with Workday and ADP highly preferred Experience working in an HR Shared Service Center preferred High energy, a positive attitude, and enjoy developing relationships in a matrix business environment At Alfa Laval, we pride ourselves on creating an inclusive and dynamic workplace that values diverse perspectives and experiences. While we typically welcome applicants from all locations, currently, we are prioritizing candidates who reside in the US or have an established presence in the area. What's in it for you? Alfa Laval offers a competitive salary and full benefits package, including medical/dental/vision/life, 401(k) plan, and more. At Alfa Laval, we carefully consider a wide range of compensation factors to determine your total compensation package. We rely on market indicators to determine compensation and consider your specific job family, background, skills, and experience to get it right. These considerations can cause your compensation to vary and will also be dependent on your location. The base salary for this role is typically $130,000 - $145,000 annually. Alfa Laval is an equal opportunity employer. We ar