Assistant Vice President, Compensation & Payroll

Our client, a leading global Fortune 500 organization, is seeking an accomplished Assistant Vice President, Compensation & Payroll to join their team near Stamford, CT.

As the Assistant Vice President, Compensation & Payroll, you will oversee both strategic and operational elements of compensation and payroll across the US and UK. You’ll lead a team responsible for delivering accurate, compliant payroll processing while also shaping competitive pay and incentive programs that align with global business goals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and mentor the payroll team, ensuring flawless execution of bi-weekly and monthly payroll cycles across multiple regions.
• Oversee the Workday Payroll process for the US and UK, driving accuracy, compliance, and continuous improvement.
• Design, implement, and manage compensation programs including merit cycles, bonus plans, and executive compensation initiatives.
• Evaluate and enhance salary structures, incentive frameworks, and job architecture to support organizational growth and market competitiveness.
• Partner closely with HRIS, Finance, and HR Business Partners to optimize systems, reporting, and process efficiency.
• Provide expert guidance on compensation policies, market trends, and governance to senior HR and business leaders.
• Maintain full compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations governing pay and compensation practices.
• Contribute to global projects focused on system integrations, automation, and process excellence.

Key Requirements:

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in compensation and multi-state payroll management within large, complex organizations.
• Must have executive compensation and incentive programs experience.
• Demonstrated experience implementing and managing payroll and compensation compliance related to the “Beautiful Bill” requirements (including overtime and tip income tax treatment and reporting) is essential.
• Strong knowledge of US and UK payroll legislation and regulatory compliance.
• Hands-on experience with Workday or similar HCM platforms, and advanced Excel/data analysis skills.
• Proven ability to lead teams, manage multiple priorities, and drive operational excellence.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the confidence to advise senior leaders.
• Global payroll experience is a strong advantage.
• Professional certifications such as CCP, SHRM-CP, or SHRM-SCP highly regarded.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Human Resources, or a related field (advanced certification preferred).