VP, Payroll Operations & Compliance

Northbound Executive Search; New York (NY); On-site; USD 180,000 - 285,000; Full time

Job summary

Northbound Executive Search is seeking a seasoned Vice President, Payroll to lead the Firm’s payroll operations. You will oversee U.S. payroll, drive governance, and partner with HCM, Finance, and external providers to ensure accurate, compliant processing.

You will manage multi‑state payroll, implement scalable controls, and contribute to global payroll initiatives while supporting audits and year‑end activities.

Qualifications

• 7+ years progressive, hands-on payroll experience.
• Deep knowledge of U.S. multi-state payroll and regulatory requirements.
• Experience with Workday Payroll or similar platforms.
• Experience with outsourced payroll providers is a plus.
• Advanced Excel skills for reconciliations and data analysis.
• Payroll certification (CPP/FPC) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and execute U.S. semi-monthly, monthly, and off-cycle payrolls.
• Ensure payroll accuracy, timeliness, and governance across entities.
• Develop scalable payroll processes for growth and international expansion.
• Maintain payroll controls, reconciliations, and audit readiness.
• Collaborate with HCM, Finance, Tax, Benefits, and external providers.
• Prepare payroll data for general ledger and audits.
• Support year-end tax reporting and W‑2 processing.

Skills

Payroll experience

US multi-state payroll

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Ownership

Education

Bachelor's degree

Tools

Workday Payroll

TriNet

Safeguard

TMF

Job description

Northbound Executive Search is seeking a seasoned Vice President, Payroll to lead the Firm’s payroll operations. You will oversee U.S. payroll, drive governance, and partner with HCM, Finance, and external providers to ensure accurate, compliant processing.

You will manage multi‑state payroll, implement scalable controls, and contribute to global payroll initiatives while supporting audits and year‑end activities.