Senior Payroll Manager

Company: Boston Globe Media Partners, LLC
Location: Boston
Posted on: June 2, 2025

Job Description:

Boston Globe Media is New England's largest newsgathering organization -- and much more. We are committed to being an indispensable, trusted, and reliable source of round-the-clock information. Our media brands include The Boston Globe, Boston.com, STAT News, and B-Side and Boston Globe Media was named one of the 100 best workplaces for innovators by Fast Company in 2023. Through powerful journalism from our newsroom, engaging content from our content marketing studio, or targeted advertising solutions, brands and marketers rely on us to reach highly engaged, diverse, and influential audiences through a variety of media and experiences.We are looking for an experienced Senior Payroll Manager who will lead our payroll operations to ensure compliance, accuracy, and efficiency across multiple payrolls. This role requires strong expertise with UKG Pro and Workforce Management (WFM) systems and comprehensive knowledge of federal, multi-state, and local payroll tax regulations. The Payroll Manager will be responsible for overseeing payroll processing for a multi-union environment, addressing complex payroll issues, and managing projects aimed at improving payroll policies, systems, and procedures.Responsibilities:

• Maintain payroll information by evaluating system requirements based on contractual and legal obligations, ensuring data integrity in UKG Pro by directing data collection, calculation, and entry.
• Maintain accuracy of payroll records by reviewing and approving changes, including but not limited to tax exemptions, deductions, direct deposits, job titles, status changes, salary changes, and department/intercompany transfers.
• Direct the timely and accurate processing of weekly and bi-weekly payments in UKG for up to 7 payroll companies. Oversee/assist in the calculation and processing of manual checks and electronic transfers to bank accounts, as required.
• Prepare routine and ad-hoc reports by compiling summaries of earnings, taxes, deductions, types of payments, overtime hours, and other payroll-related analyses using UKG/WFM and Business Intelligence reporting.
• Work with UKG on all tax-related matters, such as adding new states and jurisdictions, creating company codes, and ensuring adherence to various state, local, and federal tax requirements.
• Oversee monthly and quarterly tax filings, W-2 processing, and review statements of deposits to ensure accuracy.
• Balance the payroll accounts by resolving payroll discrepancies in audit reports.
• Respond promptly to audit requests from unions and external insurance bodies, including 401(k) and workers' compensation audits.
• Maintain payroll guidelines by writing and updating policies and procedures as needed.
• Maintain employee confidence and protect payroll operations by keeping information confidential.
• Maintain professional and technical knowledge by reviewing professional publications, establishing personal networks, and participating in professional societies.
• Complete operational requirements by scheduling and assigning employees and following up on work results (time card management).
• Review the calculation and approval/issuance of prizes, gifts, awards, and bonus payments.
• Contribute to team effort by accomplishing objectives and meeting deadlines on all fronts.
• Implement contractual rate changes for craft/trade unions, including step increases for union employees.
• Prepare reports and payments for all union monthly dues, including reconciliation of dues payments based on contractual deductions to unions.
• Interpret union contracts and advise senior leadership in negotiations.
• Oversee special projects, such as implementing new vacation accrual policies and timekeeping.
• Implement new Time and Attendance process changes and update procedures, as needed.
• Serve as the primary point of contact and lead the effective communication of payroll-related processes and policies for employees, managers, Finance, and senior leadership.
• Calculate and assure proper loading of accrual banks and review/maintain on a regular basis.
• Respond to and complete audits, as requested, by unions and outside insurance providers (e.g., Workers' Compensation).
• Collaborate with HR/Benefits/Labor Relations departments to ensure alignment on policies affecting payroll, such as leave policies and paid time off.Qualifications:
  • Advanced expertise with UKG Pro and Workforce Management experience is a must.
  • In-depth knowledge of Federal, multi-state, and local tax laws and regulations.
  • Proven track record managing payroll in a complex, multi-entity, and multi-union environment.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with demonstrated ability to build relationships with a diverse group of staff at all levels.
  • Experience implementing union contractual changes and handling union payroll complexities.
  • Ability to respond to unemployment/worker compensation requirements, based on employment law.
  • Demonstrated experience developing standards and proven expertise related to financial and accounting concepts.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with a diverse staff and a commitment to creating an inclusive work environment.
  • Ability to prioritize and multi-task in a fast-paced environment, managing several projects simultaneously.
  • Ability to work independently, as well as part of an extended, cross-functional team.
  • Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
  • A willingness to adapt and be audience-focused, with a curious mindset and a commitment to creating an inclusive work environment.This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on payroll operations while contributing to an inclusive work environment. If you're an experienced payroll professional with a commitment to excellence and continuous improvement, we encourage you to apply.The BGMP office is located in downtown Boston, near Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market, and is easily accessible by MBTA and commuter rail lines. This position is based in Boston, and candidates should be based in the area or willing to move.It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.EEO Statement: At Boston Globe Media, our mission is to empower, connect, and convene our communities with independent, trusted journalism and storytelling. We know a critical part of achieving this is by having a workforce that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive - like the communities we serve. Boston Globe Media is an equal opportunity employer that welcomes candidates and colleagues of all backgrounds, experiences, perspectives, and skills.
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Keywords: Boston Globe Media Partners, LLC, Somerville , Senior Payroll Manager, Accounting, Auditing , Boston, Massachusetts