Payroll Manager

Job Description:

We’re KSM, one of the top 50 largest independent advisory, tax, and audit firms in the United States. But more than our size, it’s our people and culture that set us apart. We believe great things happen when people are supported, challenged, and given the freedom to do their very best work. That’s why we’ve built a workplace where your career and personal life can thrive together – where you have the flexibility to manage your time, the resources to grow, and a team that genuinely cares about your success.

We’ve been employee-owned since 2001, giving every team member a stake in our collective success. This ownership mentality fosters a culture of collaboration, curiosity, and excellence  – where new ideas are welcomed, different perspectives are valued, and you’re encouraged to explore what excites you most. Whether you’re expanding your skills, tackling new challenges, or making an impact beyond the office, we provide the resources and support to help you grow in the direction that’s right for you.

At KSM, your contributions matter – not just to the firm, but to your colleagues, clients, and the communities we serve across the U.S. If you’re looking for a place where you can do meaningful work, build lasting relationships, and grow in ways that align with what’s most important to you, we’d love to meet you.

Position Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Payroll Manager to join our team. In this role, you will oversee all aspects of payroll operations, working with the firm’s third-party payroll provider (currently ADP) while also supervising a payroll staff member. You will serve as a subject matter expert, maintain compliance with payroll regulations, and provide guidance to employees and leadership on payroll matters. Experience with deferred compensation plans and ESOP programs is a plus but not required.

Responsibilities:

• Manage bi-weekly payroll processing for a multi-state workforce, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Coordinate with payroll provider on payroll tax filings, year-end reporting, and audit requirements.
• Partner with HR and Finance teams on payroll-related reporting, reconciliations, and accruals.
• Maintain and improve payroll systems, processes, and internal controls.
• Serve as the main contact for payroll inquiries, ensuring excellent employee service.
• Collaborate with vendors and internal teams to resolve issues and streamline processes.
• Support administration of deferred compensation and ESOP programs.
• Supervise and mentor a payroll specialist, providing guidance, performance feedback, and professional development opportunities.

Requirements/Qualifications:

Experience & Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, HR, or related field preferred.
• 5+ years of payroll experience, including at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Expertise with ADP or Workday payroll systems preferred.
• Knowledge of payroll compliance, tax regulations, and multi-state processing.
• Experience in a professional services or CPA/advisory firm environment preferred.

Soft Skills

• Excellent organizational skills with strong attention to detail.
• Effective communicator with a customer service mindset.
• Ability to balance deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborative and solutions-oriented approach.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, veteran status, or any other protected category. 

KSM only accepts resumes directly submitted by a candidate and referrals submitted by current KSM employees. Unsolicited resumes or candidate profiles sent by staffing agencies and fee-based referral services will not be considered outside of a signed KSM vendor contract. KSM will not pay a fee to recruiters or agencies that do not have a signed KSM vendor contract.