Payroll Strategy Lead - Multi-State & Systems Expert

MRA-The Management Association; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Komatsu is seeking a Senior Manager of Payroll to lead a large multi-state payroll operation from Milwaukee. The role oversees accuracy, compliance, and process improvements, partnering across HR, Finance, Accounting, Legal, and external providers to scale payroll capabilities.

The successful candidate will drive system implementations, ensure tax compliance, and develop scalable payroll solutions with strong internal controls. Travel up to 10% may be required.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive payroll experience with leadership responsibilities.
• Experience managing payroll operations for a large multi-state organization.
• Expert knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll laws and tax reporting.
• Experience with UKG Pro (UltiPro) or similar enterprise payroll platforms; system implementations preferred.
• CPP designation is strongly preferred.
• Willingness to travel up to 10%.

Responsibilities

• Lead, coach, and develop the payroll team for timely, accurate multi-state payroll processing.
• Develop and execute payroll strategies to improve efficiency and automate processes.
• Ensure compliance with payroll tax regulations and maintain strong internal controls.
• Collaborate with HR, Finance, Accounting, Legal, and partners to align payroll with priorities.
• Manage relationships with third-party providers, tax agencies, and vendors for service and compliance.
• Lead payroll system implementations, upgrades, and integrations across related systems.
• Oversee complex payroll transactions including bonuses, equity payments, retroactive pay, and garnishments.
• Monitor payroll legislation and implement compliant policies and practices.
• Develop payroll metrics, reporting, and executive dashboards for insights.
• Serve as escalation point for complex payroll issues and lead special projects.

Skills

Payroll leadership

Cross-state payroll

Strategic payroll planning

Leadership & team management

Regulatory knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

CPP designation (preferred)

Tools

UKG Pro (UltiPro)

Job description

Komatsu is seeking a Senior Manager of Payroll to lead a large multi-state payroll operation from Milwaukee. The role oversees accuracy, compliance, and process improvements, partnering across HR, Finance, Accounting, Legal, and external providers to scale payroll capabilities.

The successful candidate will drive system implementations, ensure tax compliance, and develop scalable payroll solutions with strong internal controls. Travel up to 10% may be required.