Payroll Manager at Robert Half in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Payroll Manager

Robert Half is seeking an experienced Payroll Manager for a Milwaukee, WI area organization to lead the accurate, timely, and compliant processing of payroll for a workforce of more than 5,000 employees. This role is responsible for overseeing payroll operations, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, managing payroll staff, and driving process improvements. The ideal candidate brings extensive large-scale payroll experience, strong leadership capabilities, and a commitment to delivering exceptional service to employees and stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end payroll processing for 5,000+ employees across multiple pay groups and locations.
• Supervise, mentor, and develop payroll team members, ensuring high performance and accountability.
• Ensure payroll accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
• Oversee payroll audits, tax filings, wage garnishments, deductions, and year-end reporting activities.
• Partner with Human Resources, Finance, Benefits, and other departments to resolve payroll-related issues and ensure data integrity.
• Develop, document, and improve payroll processes, procedures, and internal controls.
• Maintain payroll systems and coordinate testing, upgrades, and implementations as needed.
• Prepare payroll reports, analytics, and metrics for leadership and regulatory requirements.
• Serve as the primary escalation point for complex payroll inquiries and compliance matters.
• Stay current on payroll legislation, best practices, and industry trends.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field required.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive payroll experience, including responsibility for payroll processing for 5,000+ employees.
• Prior supervisory or management experience leading payroll professionals required.
• Strong knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, wage and hour requirements, and payroll compliance.
• Experience with enterprise payroll systems and HRIS platforms.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and payroll reporting tools.
• Exceptional analytical, organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) designation preferred.