Director of Payroll

Director of Payroll job description

A Director of Payroll leads payroll operations to ensure accurate and compliant compensation administration while developing strategies, processes and controls that support organizational growth. They oversee end-to-end payroll functions, manage payroll teams, strengthen internal controls, ensure compliance with legislation and policies, and improve payroll systems and reporting capabilities.

Working closely with Finance, Human Resources, Accounting, senior leadership and business stakeholders, Payroll Directors help manage complex payroll operations, improve efficiency and maintain employee confidence.

Typical director of payroll duties:

Lead end-to-end payroll operations to ensure accurate, timely and compliant payroll processing across domestic and international employee populations.

Develop payroll strategies, processes and controls that support organizational growth, efficiency and regulatory requirements.

Oversee payroll administration, including earnings, deductions, benefits-related items, paid leave tracking and employee compensation changes.

Ensure payroll practices align with applicable employment legislation, tax requirements and organizational policies across relevant jurisdictions.

Manage payroll tax activities, including setup, reporting, reconciliations and regulatory updates.

Review and reconcile payroll-related accounts, including liabilities, tax balances, general ledger accounts, deductions, garnishments and other payroll transactions.

Develop and improve payroll procedures, workflows and internal controls to enhance consistency, audit readiness and process effectiveness.

Oversee payroll systems, timekeeping platforms and technology enhancements to improve automation, reporting and operational efficiency.

Lead, coach and develop payroll team members while ensuring effective execution of payroll and compliance responsibilities.

Address employee and leadership inquiries related to compensation, deductions and payroll processes.

Review and approve payroll changes related to compensation updates, employee status changes and other payroll-impacting activities.

Prepare payroll reporting, analytics and insights to support leadership decisions, financial planning and workforce management.

Support internal and external audits by maintaining accurate payroll records, documentation and compliance reporting.

Identify opportunities to optimize payroll processes and enhance the overall employee payroll experience.

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National salary range for Director of Payroll

116500 - 148250

Low

116500

The candidate is new to the role or has limited experience and is still developing core skills.

Mid

131250

The candidate has moderate experience in the role or one similar, meets most requirements and may hold transferable skills or relevant certifications.

High

148250

The candidate has extensive experience in the role, demonstrates advanced skills and often brings specialized certifications or industry experience.

Projected salaries for related positions

Job title

Low

Mid

High

Payroll Manager

89250

108500

120250

Payroll Specialist

68500

78750

91000

Payroll Administrator

59250

70250

77750

Credit Manager

84000

99750

117000

Collections/Credit Analyst

55250

65500

77000

Collections/Credit Specialist

52500

60000

67250

Bookkeeper

57750

71250

79750

AR/AP Accountant

67500

86500

98750

AR/AP Clerk

48500

57250

63750

Accounting Clerk

47750

54250

60250

Billing Clerk

45750

51750

60250

Inventory Analyst

53250

65750

76500

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