Payroll Subject Matter Expert (SME) - United States

Description

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented US Payroll SME (Manager/Assistant Manager) to lead and support payroll delivery across the United States. In this role, you will serve as a trusted advisor and point of contact for our clients, ensuring payroll is processed accurately, compliantly, and on time.
You will manage end-to-end US payroll operations, act as a key advisor to clients, and provide internal and external guidance on US payroll compliance, legislation, and best practices. From implementation to ongoing support, you’ll be the go-to expert for US payroll matters.

Roles & Responsibilities:

Payroll Management and Compliance

• Oversee US payroll processing for multiple clients, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and full compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations. 
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of US payroll laws including FLSA, IRS guidelines, and state-specific rules. 
• Ensure compliance with wage and hour laws, benefits deductions, garnishments, and tax filings  
• Support payroll system configuration and integration, including payroll software and timekeeping systems. 

Client Onboarding and Advisory

• Lead US payroll setup and onboarding for new clients, including system configuration, test runs (e.g., parallel payroll), and go-live. 
• Act as the primary point of contact for client payroll matters, offering expert advice on compliance, workflows, and process enhancements. 
• Respond to payroll-related queries from clients and employees promptly and professionally. 

SME and Team Support

• Serve as an escalation point for complex payroll issues or exceptions. 
• Collaborate with internal teams across regions to ensure consistent service delivery. 
• Mentor junior team members and contribute to knowledge-sharing and internal training programs. 
• Assist in capacity planning and resource allocation within the US payroll team.

Continuous Improvement and Transformation

• Monitor changes in US payroll legislation and ensure timely updates to systems and processes. 
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing automation, efficiency, and payroll accuracy. 
• Participate in regional or global payroll transformation projects, contributing US-specific insights and expertise.

Requirements

• Minimum 10 years of experience in US payroll, preferably in a BPO, shared services, or multi-client environment. 
• Experience in client-facing roles with strong capabilities in implementation and onboarding. 
• In-depth knowledge of US federal, state, and local payroll tax laws, year-end processing, and regulatory compliance. 
• Strong experience with payroll systems configuration experience is a plus. 
• Advanced Excel skills and strong numerical aptitude. 
• Client-focused with excellent communication and relationship-building skills. 
• Ability to simplify and clearly communicate complex payroll matters. 
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy. 
• Self-starter with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.