Payroll Manager

Position Summary The Payroll Manager oversees daily operational performance within assigned PODs or service teams, ensuring consistent delivery of high-quality service, accurate payroll operations, and exceptional client experience. This role bridges frontline leadership and senior regional leadership by supporting service operations supervisors, managing escalations, monitoring KPIs, developing staff, and driving process improvements. The Manager partners closely with cross functional departments to support retention, operational efficiency, and compliance initiatives. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Provide day-to-day leadership and direction to Service Operations Supervisors, Service Consultants, and Payroll Specialists. Conduct regular 1:1s, monitor performance metrics, identify coaching opportunities, and support professional development plans. Ensure adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and operational guidelines. Facilitate weekly POD huddles, ensuring alignment on client escalations, trends, and learning opportunities. Act as a primary escalation point for complex or high impact client issues requiring managerial involvement. Support Supervisors and Service teams in resolving payroll, tax, system, compliance, and service-related concerns. Review high-risk clients and intervene proactively by recommending service and retention strategies. Provide leadership during client meetings where significant issues, trend analysis, or service realignment is required. Oversee daily service operations to ensure timely, accurate payroll processing and exceptional client service. Monitor department KPIs such as retention, case resolution time, error rates, and client engagement patterns. Perform trend analysis to identify process gaps and recommend operational improvements. Partner with Quality Control, Payroll Tax, Implementation, and Compliance teams to ensure seamless workflow execution. Conduct performance reviews, manage staffing needs, and participate in hiring/selection processes. Review and approve escalated client fee adjustments and account-level recommendations from Supervisors. Support the development, rollout, and maintenance of department SOPs, workflows, and training standards. Collaborate with the AVP and executive leaders on strategic operational initiatives. Assist with cross functional project work, including system enhancements, compliance updates, and service optimization efforts. Provide internal training to Supervisors and Service staff regarding system updates, payroll best practices, and department initiatives. Regular, on-site attendance is an essential job function due to the need for secure access to systems, collaboration on sensitive technical matters, participation in operational meetings, and hands-on involvement in activities Marginal Functions Build, maintain and promote relationships with team members, peers across disciplines, and all other company team members ensuring effective coordination of communications and services affecting clients. Provide backup support during high-volume periods or team member absences. Attend webinars and training to stay up to date on best practices related to the company and department. Act as a resource and mentor for Specialists by assisting with complex questions and sharing expertise. Complete projects and other duties as assigned by supervisor. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Ability to adapt to change, support team transitions, and guide staff through evolving processes, systems, and organizational expectations. Strong level of understanding of payroll processing, HRIS functions, and multi-state compliance requirements. Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities for complex issues. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams and build positive working relationships. Communicates clearly and professionally in both written and verbal formats. Strong time manag