Director of Payroll

About Ascend Ascend is Brooklyn’s premier K–12 public charter network, committed to graduating high-achieving students who have access to boundless choice in their futures—not only through college acceptance, but through meaningful preparation for career readiness and thriving adult lives.Across our schools, we pair rigorous academics with strong systems, supportive adult culture, and a deep belief in students’ brilliance and potential. Our work is grounded in the understanding that preparing students for long-term success requires excellence in instruction, intentional culture-building, and disciplined execution at every level of the organization.At Ascend, adults are held to high standards because our students deserve nothing less. How we teach, lead, collaborate, and make decisions every day directly shapes the opportunities our students will have tomorrow.Join us in shaping learning environments where curiosity is nurtured, excellence is the norm, and every student is prepared for a lifetime of boundless choice.About the RoleReporting to the Controller, the Director of Payroll manages the team responsible for processing semi-monthly payrolls for Ascend Charter Schools and for interfacing with Ascend’s human resources and payroll systems to meet business needs.QualificationsBachelor’s degree required.Minimum of 6 years of experience in payroll, HRIS, or related HR/finance operations roles.Strong experience working with HRIS or data management systems.Highly proficient in Excel and financial data analysis.Exceptional attention to detail with zero tolerance for payroll inaccuracies.Strong organizational, project management, and time‑management skills.Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.Ability to work independently and collaboratively.Commitment to continuous improvement and openness to feedback.Strong communication and customer service orientation.Demonstrated alignment with Ascend’s mission and educational values.ResponsibilitiesAssigns, directs, and supervises all Payroll team members to ensure seamless payroll administration, including compliance and tax-related filings and reportingLeads process improvements within HR and finance systems by leveraging HRIS and business analysis technology to enhance operational efficiencyDrives cross-functional collaboration between Finance, HR, and Talent to develop and optimize business processes, including the Staffing/Vacancy model, real-time position control management, reporting, and ad hoc data analysisEnsures payroll systems and operations adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures; advises team members and resolves non-routine issues as they ariseReviews and approves the payroll system enhancement agendaServes as the primary resource for school personnel on payroll matters; resolves discrepancies in payroll administration, records, and disbursements; responds to inquiries at staff meetings and other functions; and completes required payroll surveys and reportsOversees the design, management, and administration of Ascend's retirement plan, including partnerships with the plan recordkeeper, broker/financial advisor, TPA, auditor, and ERISA counsel; ensures timely and accurate plan contributions in compliance with plan rules and federal regulationsStaff and Reporting RelationshipsThe Director of Payroll reports to the Controller.CompensationThe salary for this position begins at $95,000. Salaries are determined using an equitable compensation scale that accounts for years of experience and levels of attained education.Location & Work ArrangementBased in our Brooklyn, NY officeHybrid work schedule requiring in-office presence at least three days per weekIn-person work expectations include network office time, stakeholder meetings, school visits, special events, and other role-specific responsibilities as determined by management.This is a full-time, exempt position that offers a comprehensive benefits package including:Medical, dental, and vision insurance403(b) retirement plan with employer matchingGenerous paid time off and additional employee benefits