Position SummaryLeads payroll operations, transformation, optimization, systems, integrations, and scalable technology enablement across Pennant's multi-entity payroll environment. Executive exemption is supported when the role's primary duty is management, it directs at least two full-time employees or the equivalent, and its hiring, promotion, discipline, or other personnel recommendations carry particular weight. Administrative exemption may also support substantial enterprise systems, integration, and policy work requiring independent judgment.
Essential Responsibilities- Own end-to-end payroll operations strategy, service delivery, controls, and continuous improvement.
- Lead future integrations for acquisitions, joint ventures, and new business; establish readiness, validation, cutover, and stabilization plans.
- Direct payroll optimization, automation, AI-enabled opportunities, systems enhancements, testing, and production governance.
- Translate enterprise priorities into a sequenced roadmap with accountable owners, milestones, risks, and measurable outcomes.
- Exercise authority over operating methods, resource deployment, escalations, and recommendations affecting payroll policy and systems.
- Lead and develop assigned payroll analysts; set priorities, review complex work, and maintain backup coverage.
- Partner with Payroll Tax, Time & Attendance, HRIS, Finance, Legal, and business leaders on cross-functional decisions.
- Own function-level SOPs, policies, control evidence, audit readiness, and issue remediation.
Minimum qualifications- Bachelor's degree in business, accounting, HR, information systems, or equivalent experience.
- 10+ years of progressive payroll experience, including leadership in a complex, multi-state, multi-entity environment.
- Demonstrated experience with Workday Payroll, integrations, implementation or transformation leadership, controls, and process redesign.
- CPP, PMP, or comparable payroll/program credential preferred.
- Judgment and accountability
- Control discipline and documentation
- Cross-functional partnership
- Clear written and verbal communication
- Protection of confidential payroll and employee data
- Continuous improvement and scalable thinking
The employee must be able to perform the essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation. Responsibilities may change based on business needs. This description does not create a contract of employment and should be finalized through Pennant's HR, Compensation, and Legal review process.
Location: Hybrid at any Service Center: Eagle, ID, Draper, UT, Nashville, TN, or Farmington, CT
Additional Benefits:- True Work-Life balance - We believe in taking care of yourself before you take care of others!
- Full benefits package (medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with match)
- Paid time off, holiday pay, and professional development
- Your voice matters! - Work with other passionate and high-achieving leaders who care deeply about patient outcomes and team success.
