Payroll Manager, North America

Develop systems to process US & Canada payroll account transactions (e.g. salaries benefits, garnishments, deductions, taxes and third party payments)Manage 6 direct reports and 6 indirectsOversee processing of payroll changes (e.g. new hires, terminations, salary changes) and system upgradesEnsure compliance with relevant laws and internal policiesInterpret day-to-day business objectives and preparation/execution of operational practices/work programs. Manage and coach payroll staff and fill in for the Head of North America Payroll as needed and prepare work schedules to ensure appropriate coverage. Facilitate weekly (as required) team calls/meetings. Monitor the workload and evaluate performance of direct reports Ensure team members acquire necessary skills and performance attributes, in line with business and personal development needs.Provide guidance to and shares knowledge with colleagues/team membersCollaborate with Head of North America Payroll to create annual team objectives. Escalate potential service issues to Management. Directs work within budgetary guidelines.Participates in interview process for new hires into Payroll roles.Defines standards and reusable approaches within the Payroll operational framework.Train team members on new or enhanced operation procedures and policies.Identify and implement process improvement initiatives and define standards for new processes.Cover for team members in back-up role for vacation and/or high-volume work efforts.Approve and release manual off-cycle check payments.Implement quality control measures that align with Merck Internal Control Systems.Main point of contact for payroll stakeholders and their vendors including (but not limited to) benefits, global mobility, finance/accounting and HRBPs.Demonstrated coaching/mentoring skills and issue management problem solving skills. Strategic mindset and business acumenStrong customer service skills.Strong organization skills, attention to detail and follow through to resolve any outstanding issues.Strong time management skills.Strong written and verbal communication skills; appropriately communicates with all levels of customers from assistants to Sr. Executives. Ability to adapt to changing environment and support of multiple clients. Ability to analyze/interpret data and take appropriate action. Ability & interest in training other team members. Expert knowledge of federal, state and local wage rules, tax filings, registrations, reciprocity rules and regulationsWorking knowledge of email, Internet Explorer, Excel and Access. Who You AreMinimum Qualifications: Bachelors Degree or CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) 5-7+ years US & Canada payroll experiencePeople Management experiencePreferred Qualifications:Expert knowledge of payroll tax filings, registrations, reciprocity rules and regulationsFast paced customer service experienceUKG payroll and time and attendance systemsOracle/SAP HR systems preferred.Budget management and developmentExperience in a shared service environment and solid understanding of HR cycles.HR experience preferably in an operations environment preferred.Ability to effectively manage team members and work as a member of that team and organize work activities for other members of that team.