Director of Payroll Services - Washington University in St. Louis

Washington University in St. Louis seeks an experienced Director, Payroll Services. Reporting to the University’s Controller, the Director provides leadership and guidance for the payroll function of the university and directs and coordinates the activities of Payroll Services team in processing payroll for faculty, staff, students, and fellows.

Washington University is nationally and internationally renowned for teaching and learning, patient care, research and service to society. The University invests in the highest quality of both undergraduate and graduate education and includes a top-ranked, thriving academic medical enterprise and has a total enrollment of more than 16,000 students, with over 4,000 faculty, and approximately 18,000 employees and an annual operating budget over $3 billion. WashU employees receive exceptional benefits including health, dental, vision, and insurance options as well as retirement plan contributions, tuition assistance, family care, well-being support, generous time-off policies, career development and growth opportunities, as well as home-buying assistance.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities of the Director of Payroll Services include:

• Function as a collaborative partner within Accounting Services and across other business units to provide leadership and support for effective problem solving, difficult customer inquiries, and overall direction for the payroll operations. Key relationships include: Human Resources, Office of General Counsel, CFO/Financial Services, School administrators, et al.
• Work with senior leadership in defining organizational goals and strategic plans related to university-wide payroll operations. Plan, develop and ensure the effective implementation of formulated business strategies and long-term planning with leadership of various departments/divisions/groups all in support of the University’s mission and goals.
• Identify, evaluate and recommend information technology solutions to meet strategic objectives and serve as the subject matter expert for the payroll system and processes.
• Manage diverse audits, including internal and employment tax audits.
• Supervise investigations of payroll claims and complaints regarding payments, wages and deductions; coordinate necessary changes or corrections; answer and resolve complex payroll related questions and problems.
• Develop, implement and maintain policies and standard operating procedures to support best practices and a strong internal control environment. Conduct periodic audits and reviews to confirm timely postings to the general ledger, funding for bank accounts, timely reports for tax deposits, and to maintain the quality and integrity of the payroll processing. Implement corrective actions immediately upon identification of issues.
• Develop various communications for distribution to departmental managers, departmental payroll representatives regarding payroll deadlines, business process changes, etc.
• Leadership, oversight and development of department staff.

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor degree in accounting, finance or business administration and seven to ten years of related payroll experience as well as three to five years of supervisory experience. Preferred qualifications include a Master degree, Certified Payroll Professional, a CPA or CMA, experience with complex, decentralized organizations and with Workday HCM and/or FIN.

Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.

If you are interested in learning more about this position, please contact Sherry Scheer, Recruitment Consultant, Washington University in St. Louis. sherry.scheer@wustl.edu