SlipstreamJobs tracks this role from the company's public career site. Apply directly on the employer's site.
Distro is seeking a Payroll Manager to lead daily operational performance within service teams, ensuring consistent delivery of high-quality payroll operations and exceptional client experience. This role bridges frontline leadership and senior regional leadership, supporting service operations supervisors, managing escalations, monitoring KPIs, developing staff, and driving process improvements.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide day-to-day leadership and direction to Service Operations Supervisors, Service Consultants, and Payroll Specialists through regular 1:1s, performance monitoring, and professional development support.
- Ensure adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and operational guidelines; facilitate weekly POD huddles for alignment on client escalations and learning opportunities.
- Act as primary escalation point for complex or high-impact client issues; support teams in resolving payroll, tax, system, compliance, and service-related concerns.
- Oversee daily service operations to ensure timely, accurate payroll processing; monitor department KPIs including retention, case resolution time, error rates, and client engagement patterns.
- Perform trend analysis to identify process gaps and recommend operational improvements; partner with Quality Control, Payroll Tax, Implementation, and Compliance teams.
- Conduct performance reviews, manage staffing needs, and participate in hiring and selection processes.
- Review and approve escalated client fee adjustments and account-level recommendations from supervisors.
- Support development, rollout, and maintenance of department SOPs, workflows, and training standards.
- Collaborate with AVP and executive leaders on strategic operational initiatives; assist with cross-functional projects including system enhancements and compliance updates.
- Provide internal training to supervisors and service staff on system updates, payroll best practices, and department initiatives.
- Build and maintain relationships with team members and peers across disciplines; provide mentorship and backup support during high-volume periods.
Requirements:
- College degree preferred or equivalent combination of experience, skills, and education (including non-traditional degree programs or job training) required.
- 3+ years of PEO, ASO, HCM, or multistate payroll/service operations experience required.
- 1–2 years of supervisor or team lead experience required; management experience preferred.
- Strong understanding of payroll processing, HRIS functions, and multi-state compliance requirements.
- Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities for complex issues.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to collaborate effectively across teams.
- Strong time management and prioritization skills in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent leadership and customer service skills with ability to guide teams and resolve escalations.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain strict confidentiality and handle sensitive information professionally.
- Exceptional attention to detail and organization; reliable follow-through on tasks.
- Experience with PRISM or similar HRIS/payroll systems preferred.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office software (Outlook, Teams, Excel, PowerPoint) and demonstrated ability to learn other applications.
- Regular, on-site attendance is essential due to need for secure system access, collaboration on sensitive technical matters, and hands-on operational involvement.
