Leadership & Strategy: Oversee end-to-end payroll operations for the US account within the Hungary COE, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.
US Payroll Compliance & Expertise: Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) on US payroll tax regulations, SOX requirements, and payroll controls. Ensure adherence to all federal, state, and local payroll tax obligations.
Payroll Execution & Controls: Lead and monitor payroll tie-outs, reconciliations, and control processes to ensure accuracy and timely execution of payroll.
Health & Welfare & 401(k) Deductions: Oversee the accurate processing of health and welfare deductions, 401(k) contributions, and other benefit-related payroll deductions.
Process Optimization: Identify and implement process improvements, automation opportunities, and best practices to enhance payroll accuracy, efficiency, and compliance.
Stakeholder Engagement: Partner with key stakeholders, including HR, Finance, CIO, and external payroll vendors, to align payroll processes with business objectives and regulatory requirements.
Audit & Risk Management: Ensure payroll processes adhere to internal controls, SOX compliance, and audit requirements. Address any compliance issues and mitigate risks proactively.
People Management: Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing payroll team in the Hungary COE, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous learning.
The Payroll Center of Excellence (COE) Leader – US Account is responsible for overseeing payroll operations executed in the Hungary COE for United States payroll. This role ensures compliance with US payroll tax regulations, health and welfare deductions, 401(k) contributions, payroll reconciliations, and SOX controls. The leader will drive operational excellence, standardization, and continuous improvement in payroll processes while ensuring a seamless employee experience and compliance with regulatory requirements.
Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Human Resources, or a related field.
10+ years of experience in HR and/or payroll operations, with a strong focus on US payroll.
Experience in managing large-scale payroll operations within a shared services or COE model.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and process improvement skills.
Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
Leadership experience with a proven ability to develop and motivate teams.
Expertise in US payroll tax laws, compliance, and regulatory requirements, including SOX controls.
Proficiency in payroll systems (Workday and/or SAP SuccessFactors) and automation tools.
CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) or other payroll certification.
Experience with AI-driven payroll automation and digital transformation initiatives.
Prior experience working in a multinational, matrixed environment.