Manager Total Rewards

This is a great opportunity to join a team where you will be empowered to shape core processes and procedures and make a valuable impact on a high performing, collaborative team. The Manager, Total Rewards & Payroll is responsible for the design, implementation, and administration of compensation, benefits, and payroll programs that support the company's growth and value creation strategy. This role ensures rewards programs are competitive and aligned with performance, while delivering accurate, compliant, and scalable payroll operations.The Manager, Total Rewards & Payroll is a collaborative, strategic, operational leader responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing compensation, payroll, benefits, HR systems, and employee lifecycle processes. This role ensures compliance with applicable federal and state, and multi state employment laws and requirements.Key ResponsibilitiesCompensation Strategy & ExecutionLead design and administration of base salary, bonus, and incentive programsManage annual compensation cycles (merit increases, promotions, bonus payouts)Conduct market benchmarking and maintain competitive pay structuresPartner with Finance on compensation planning, forecasting, and accrualsEnsure pay-for-performance alignment across the organizationBenefits Strategy & AdministrationOversee health, welfare, and retirement programs (e.g., 401(k), medical, wellness)Manage broker and vendor relationships, lead renewals and RFPsDrive cost optimization while maintaining competitive offeringsEnsure compliance with applicable regulations (ACA, ERISA, COBRA, etc.)Payroll LeadershipManage the end-to-end payroll process for more than 1200 employees (multi-state, multi-entity preferred) across the United States, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with federal, state and local regulations.Oversee payroll tax reporting, reconciliations, and year end processing (W-2s).Maintain payroll system configurations, updates and data integrity.Respond to and resolve payroll inquires from employees and leaders.Partner with Finance for payroll related journal entries and account reconciliations.Partner with Finance on payroll accounting, reconciliations, and auditsOptimize payroll processes, systems, and controls for scalabilityLead or support payroll system implementations or transitionsM&A, Analytics & ReportingManage company and people related reporting and analytics including but not limited to headcount, attrition, and other various reports.Support due diligence, integration, and exit readiness activitiesCompliance & GovernanceMaintain compliance with payroll and compensation laws/regulations (FLSA, IRS, DOL, state/local requirements).Implement and maintain internal controls to safeguard payroll accuracy and security.Manage audits related to payroll and compensation.QualificationsBachelor's degree in Human Resources, Accounting, Finance, or related field5+ years of progressive payroll and compensation experience, including at least 2 years in a leadership role.High attention to detail and accuracy.Excellent verbal and written communication skills.Excellent interpersonal skills with a proven ability to collaborate with a team.Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.