Position Summary Reporting to the Deputy Controller, the Payroll Director is responsible for the accurate and timely payment of compensation exceeding $3.5B to over 34,000 employees; ensuring accuracy and timeliness for over 100 semi-monthly, bi-weekly, weekly payroll runs, ensuring proper withholding and remittance of all withholdings including federal, state, and local taxes, and garnishments; supporting internal and external audits; and ensuring accurate accounting and reconciliation of all related expenses in the PeopleSoft financial accounting system.

The role leads and develops a team of eight team members responsible for payroll operations and payroll accounting functions. The Payroll Director is also responsible for leading and participating in payroll system enhancements and upgrades. Responsibilities

Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Oversees payroll operations and accounting for over 34,000 employees, ensuring accurate and timely processing of payroll

Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, including tax reporting and filings

Ensures compliance with University policies, procedures, and collective bargaining agreements

Ensures proper accounting of payroll to Peoplesoft accounting system and complete reconciliation of all general ledger account balances every month.

Collaborates with the Human Resource Processing Center (HRPC) and Columbia University Information Technology (CUIT) on system enhancements and upgrades

Supports various internal and external audits and ensures timely implementation of proposed recommendations.

Establishes operational protocol and analyses/recommends payroll system setups required for new benefits and/or new collective bargaining agreements

Identifies opportunities for process improvement and leads the design and implementation of enhancements

Develops payroll training materials and provides on-going guidance to school and department administrators

Interprets and administers state and federal regulations on pay and taxation, with related reporting to various government agencies and vendors

Ensures a high level of employee customer service is provided; is a key contact for HR and Finance Service Desk

Manages relationships with vendors (ADP and Experian) who provide key payroll outsourced services.

Stays updated on changes in payroll laws and regulations and implements necessary changes to ensure compliance

Leads and mentors the payroll team, providing guidance, training, and development opportunities

Develops data-driven metrics to monitor payroll team performance and dashboards for senior leadership

Participates in special projects from time to time and leads Payroll specific tasks

Performs other related duties and special projects as assigned. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance or a related field required.

7-9 years' related experience in payroll accounting and operations. Preferred Qualifications Advanced degree or other professional certification (CPA).

8+ years' related experience in payroll accounting and operations.

At least five years in a leadership role overseeing large-scale payroll operations.

Experience in a large, complex academic or research environment.