Payroll Manager

Job Title: Interim Payroll Manager

Location: San Francisco, CA (Remote)

Duration: Interim / Contract (with potential for extension or conversion)

About the Company

Our client, a growing global organization, is seeking an Interim Payroll Manager to provide hands-on support and leadership through year-end. The company processes U.S. payroll through Workday on a semi-monthly schedule and also oversees payroll operations for employees based in Portugal in partnership with local payroll providers. This role will be critical in ensuring accurate, compliant, and timely payroll operations while maintaining business continuity during the transition period.

About the Role

The Interim Payroll Manager will oversee and process payroll operations, ensuring compliance and accuracy while supporting the organization through a transitional phase.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and process bi-monthly U.S. payroll in Workday Payroll, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Administer payroll transactions related to benefits, taxes, bonuses, commissions, and off-cycle payments.
• Oversee payroll for equity transactions including ISO and NSO option exercises, RSU vesting, and other stock-related events, ensuring accurate reporting and tax compliance.
• Coordinate with international partners to manage payroll for employees based outside the U.S.
• Review and validate payroll calculations, adjustments, benefit deductions, and withholdings.
• Prepare and reconcile payroll journal entries and related financial reporting.
• Support preparation of year-end reporting, including W-2s and other statutory filings.
• Partner cross-functionally with HR, Finance, and external vendors to maintain data accuracy and process efficiency.
• Provide guidance and oversight to a junior payroll contractor and ensure continuity of operations during the interim period.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive payroll experience, including prior experience in a lead or management capacity.
• Workday Payroll experience strongly preferred.
• Strong understanding of multi-state payroll, compliance, and year-end reporting.
• Experience managing or coordinating international payroll a plus.
• Proven ability to manage deadlines, resolve issues, and operate independently in a dynamic environment.
• Excellent attention to detail, communication, and organizational skills.

Required Skills

• Strong understanding of payroll processes and compliance.
• Experience with Workday Payroll.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Experience with W-2 processing and other year-end payroll compliance requirements.