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Chief Payroll Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CFS

CFO

Branford, CT · Hybrid

Oversee accounting functions including general ledger, AP/AR, payroll, and financial reporting ... Officer (CFO) * Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA or MBA strongly ...

CFS

CFO

Branford, CT · Hybrid

Oversee accounting functions including general ledger, AP/AR, payroll, and financial reporting ... Officer (CFO) * Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA or MBA strongly ...

LA Solar Group

CFO

Sun Valley, CA · On-site

Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Position Summary The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) is a senior ... Oversee accounting, payroll, AP/AR, and internal controls * Manage audits, tax filings, and ...

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$57.5K

$116.4K

$165K

How much do chief payroll officer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief payroll officer in the United States is $116,415.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,000.00 and $135,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chief Payroll Officer, and why are they important?

To excel as a Chief Payroll Officer, you need deep expertise in payroll management, tax compliance, and financial regulations, often supported by a degree in accounting or finance and extensive payroll experience. Proficiency with payroll software (such as ADP, SAP, or Workday), HRIS systems, and relevant certifications like CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) are highly valued. Exceptional leadership, attention to detail, and strong communication skills set top performers apart in this executive role. These skills ensure accurate payroll processing, legal compliance, and effective team management, which are critical for organizational stability and employee satisfaction.

What are some common challenges faced by Chief Payroll Officers when managing payroll for a large, multi-state organization?

Chief Payroll Officers in large, multi-state organizations often encounter challenges related to navigating complex and varying state payroll tax regulations, ensuring compliance with ever-changing labor laws, and integrating multiple payroll systems after mergers or expansions. They must also manage large teams and coordinate closely with HR, finance, and IT departments to ensure accurate and timely payroll processing. Staying updated on regulatory changes and maintaining data security are ongoing priorities, making proactive communication and continuous professional development essential in this role.

What does a Chief Payroll Officer do?

A Chief Payroll Officer is responsible for overseeing an organization's entire payroll function, ensuring that employees are paid accurately and on time. They manage payroll staff, develop payroll policies, ensure compliance with regulations, and implement payroll systems and technologies. Additionally, they collaborate with HR and finance departments to align payroll processes with organizational goals, handle audits, and resolve complex payroll issues. Their leadership ensures the integrity and efficiency of payroll operations across the company.

What is the difference between Chief Payroll Officer vs Payroll Manager?

AspectChief Payroll OfficerPayroll Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees payroll strategy, compliance, and policy at an organizational levelManages daily payroll operations and processing
CredentialsTypically requires extensive experience in payroll and leadership, often with certifications like CPP or FPCRequires payroll processing experience, possibly with certifications, but less strategic focus
Work EnvironmentExecutive-level, strategic planning, cross-department collaborationOperational, team management, hands-on payroll processing
Industry UsageCommon in large organizations with complex payroll needsFound in organizations of various sizes, focusing on payroll execution

The Chief Payroll Officer focuses on strategic payroll leadership and compliance at an organizational level, while the Payroll Manager handles daily payroll operations and team management. Both roles require payroll expertise, but the Chief Payroll Officer's role is broader and more strategic.

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Chief Payroll Officer jobs near you
Chief Payroll Administrator and Operations Director

Chief Payroll Administrator and Operations Director

Winston-Salem State University

Winston Salem, NC • On-site

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Position Details
Classification Information
Position Classification Title
Chief Campus Payroll Administrator
FLSA
Exempt
Position Class
89626
Position Overview
Join the Ramily!
Join the Ramily!
Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) is a distinguished institution that combines academic excellence, community engagement, and a commitment to fostering student success. We are proud to be North Carolina's only university to earn the distinguished designation of Opportunity College by the Carnegie Classifications of Higher Education and the American Council on Education (ACE). WSSU is dedicated to preparing students for leadership roles through rigorous programs in health sciences, business, education, and the humanities. Known for its supportive environment, the university fosters a close-knit community that nurtures both professional and academic excellence.
Situated in Winston-Salem, North Carolina-known as the city of Arts and innovation, WSSU provides students with opportunities to engage in a dynamic mix of professional, social, and cultural experiences. Winston-Salem is home to thriving arts, healthcare, and technology sectors, offering both students and faculty unique collaboration opportunities and professional development pathways.
With its beautiful campus, strong sense of community, and dedication to fostering personal and professional growth, Winston-Salem State University is an ideal place to teach, work, and learn.
We invite strategic leaders who are passionate about operational excellence and advancing higher education to become part of our team.
Find information about our current benefits and retirement options, our holiday schedule, and other discounts and perks at the links below:
UNC System Employee Benefits Central
UNC System Retirement Benefits
WSSU Holiday Schedule
WSSU Discounts and Perks
Position Summary
The Chief Payroll Administrator and Operations Director plays a critical leadership role in advancing the strategic priorities of Winston-Salem State University and the Office of Human Resources. As a key member of the HR leadership team, this position provides oversight and direct execution of core HR operational functions, including payroll, leave administration, HRIS, data integrity, records management, and workers' compensation. This role ensures the accurate and timely processing of payroll, compliance with federal, state, and UNC System regulations, and the integrity of HR systems and data. The Chief Payroll Administrator and Operations Director is responsible for driving operational efficiency, mitigating risk, and enhancing service delivery across the institution.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Collaboration
  • Partner with the Associate Vice Chancellor for Human Resources/Chief Human Resources Officer to develop, implement, and execute university and HR strategic priorities, ensuring alignment with institutional goals.
  • Provide operational and tactical guidance to divisional and departmental leadership, supporting effective workforce planning, compliance, and service delivery.

Payroll Management
  • Oversee and process payroll operations to ensure timely and accurate processing.
  • Implement and monitor payroll policies and procedures, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and alignment with organizational standards.
  • Review, validate, and approve payroll transactions, including adjustments, retroactive pay, supplemental pay, and off-cycle payrolls.
  • Investigate and resolve payroll issues, inquiries, and discrepancies in a timely manner.
  • Oversee and perform all operational components of payroll processing, including but not limited to Labor Law compliance, Financial Reporting, and Payroll audits.
  • Collaborate with UNC System Office payroll service teams and internal partners to ensure compliance and operational alignment.

Leave Administration
  • Direct and manage leave programs, including workers' compensation, voluntarily shared leave, personal, vacation, and other leave types.
  • Ensure compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements related to leave.
  • Work with the Benefits and Leave team to update, monitor, and communicate leave policies, procedures, and eligibility criteria.

HR Information Systems (HRIS) and Banner Records Management
  • Responsible for overseeing the functionality, integrity, and security of HR data within the Banner system and related HRIS platforms. Ensure HR data integrity by managing data entry protocols, data auditing, and system security measures.
  • Lead system upgrades, CAB implementations, and enhancements, coordinating with stakeholders to meet organizational needs
  • Supervise the data entry of record management clerks, maintenance, storage to BDMS, and security of employee records, ensuring compliance with legal, regulatory, and organizational requirements. Implement and monitor records management policies of personnel records, including document retention and confidentiality standards.
  • Regularly audit records management practices to ensure data accuracy, privacy, and compliance.
  • Guide staff on record-keeping best practices and support audits or investigations as necessary.

Position Information
Position Number
117024
Working Position Title
Chief Payroll Administrator and Operations Director
Building and Room No.
137D Anderson Center
Appointment Type
Permanent Full-Time
If Time Limited.
No
Appointment Length.
12 months per year
Requirements and Preferences
Position required to work during periods of adverse weather or other emergencies
Pandemic Mandatory Home
Normal Work Schedule
8 am - 5 pm, Monday - Friday, with a flexible work schedule possible.
Department Required Skills
  • Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university, preferably with coursework in Human Resources Management, Accounting, Payroll, Business Administration, or a related field, and a minimum of four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in program development and personnel management; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • A minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in human resources and payroll, or a master's degree with at least three (3) years of professional experience in human resources and payroll. Coursework emphasis in human resources and payroll is preferred.

Required Competencies
  • Demonstrated excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage and influence stakeholders at all levels.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills, with a high level of attention to detail.
  • Proven ability to lead, mentor, and coach staff, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
  • Ability to manage complex projects and oversee multiple initiatives simultaneously while meeting deadlines.
  • Demonstrated ability to think strategically and creatively, synthesize information, and implement effective solutions.
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment, flexibility, and discretion in managing sensitive issues and executing organizational strategies.

Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education
  • Master's Degree or Higher; Seven (7) or more years of progressively responsible experience in human resources, payroll administration, or HR operations leadership
  • Prior experience in higher education and/or UNC System environment
  • Demonstrated experience managing complex payroll operations, compliance, and multi-functional HR teams

Required License or Certification
Valid US Driver's License
No
Commercial Driver's License Required
No
Physical Required
No
List any other medical/drug tests required

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