Payroll Manager

Overview Our client is seeking aPayroll Managerto lead end-to-end payroll operations acrossthe U.S. (required)andCanada (nice to have) . This role manages a small team oftwo direct reportsand partners closely with HR, HRIS, Finance, and Accounting to ensure accurate, compliant, on-time payroll processing. With new HRIS/Payroll initiatives on the horizon, this leader will also play a key role inprocess improvement and system/project support .Hybrid -2 days/week onsitein theKansas City officeWhat You'll Do Payroll Operations (U.S. + Canada)Own end-to-end payroll processing forbiweekly, monthly, and off-cycleruns across hourly and salaried employee populations.Process one-time payments such asbonuses, reimbursements, severance, and PTO payouts .Manage annual tax deliverables (ex:W-2 ; Canada tax forms as applicable) in partnership with payroll vendors.Maintain accurate payroll documentation, records, and audit-ready files.Oversee payroll setup/maintenance includingearnings/deductions codes, limits, and accumulators .Partner with timekeeping stakeholders to resolve exceptions and ensure accurate approvals.Manage garnishments and withholding orders (child support, levies, etc.).Review and validate payroll registers prior to final submission.Maintain and troubleshootGL mappingto ensure accurate payroll outputs for Finance.Coordinate with tax authorities and vendors as needed; monitor filings/remittances.Leadership + ServiceLead and develop a payroll team oftwo , ensuring coverage/back-up for absences and critical deadlines.Serve as escalation point for complex payroll issues; ensure strong internal customer service.Coach team members on best practices, communication, and quality standards.Partner with HRIS on payroll system setup/maintenance and related integrations.Compliance, Reporting, and Continuous ImprovementEnsure compliance with applicable payroll laws and regulations across jurisdictions (federal/state/provincial/local).Execute reconciliations and support audits (financial, 401k, benefits, etc.).Deliver payroll reporting and insights to internal stakeholders.Identify process gaps, implement improvements, and document SOPs.Support payroll-related projects, including systems enhancements/implementations (requirements, testing, workflow design, go-live support).What We're Looking For5+ yearsof progressive payroll experience withstrong multi-state U.S. payrollownership (required).Prior payroll leadership experience preferred (team size can be small); ability to effectively manage and develop others.Exceptional communication skills -clear, responsive, and confident with all levels of stakeholders.Experience with large payroll platforms strongly preferred:ADP Workforce Now and/or Workdayhighly desiredAlso relevant:UKG (Ultimate/Kronos), Ceridian Dayforce, Paychex , or similar enterprise systemsStrong working knowledge of payroll compliance, taxation, and internal controls.Solid Excel skills (comfortable with reconciliation and reporting).High integrity and discretion with confidential information.Canadian payroll exposure is a plus , but not required.Bonus PointsPayroll certification (CPP or similar)Experience supporting system implementations/upgrades and change managementAbout Us Hunter Hamilton is a high-performance professional search firm specializing connectingfinance, HR, operations, and legal talent with leading employers.Hunter Hamilton is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Hunter Hamilton offers reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities; contact your local branch for inquiries. Hunter Hamilton is an E-Verify employer. See our Privacy Notice for Candidates and Employees/Contractors at https://smgroupna.com/privacy-notice-for-candidates-and-employees-contractors. By applying, you consent to receive AI-generated and non-AI-generated calls, texts, or emails from Staffmark Group, its affiliates, and partners. Frequency varies and message/data rates may apply. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for help.