Payroll & AP Manager

We are looking for a Payroll & AP Manager to lead payroll and accounts payable operations for a high-volume, multi-state environment in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This position oversees accurate payroll execution, timely vendor and employee payments, and strong compliance with tax, reporting, and audit requirements. The role also partners closely with finance and human resources to improve processes, support staff development, and maintain reliable financial controls.

Responsibilities:
• Direct end-to-end payroll administration, including timekeeping review, earnings and deduction processing, tax withholdings, benefit-related entries, and third-party remittances.
• Lead, mentor, and evaluate team members within payroll and accounts payable, while building documentation and training materials that support consistent performance.
• Ensure payroll cycles and payment runs are completed accurately and on schedule, investigating exceptions and resolving discrepancies in a timely manner.
• Partner with accounting and human resources to address payroll questions, reconcile issues, and maintain accurate financial reporting.
• Oversee 401(k) activity, including contribution processing, reporting support, reconciliations, and audit-related coordination.
• Review and balance payroll- and payables-related general ledger accounts to support month-end and year-end accuracy.
• Manage accounts payable operations across vendor invoices, employee reimbursements, travel expenses, and other organizational disbursements.
• Maintain vendor records, respond to payment inquiries, administer 1099 reporting, and oversee corporate card and incentive card activity in accordance with policy.
• Support internal and external audit requests by preparing records, documentation, and responses needed for financial reviews and program monitoring.
• Coordinate payable workflow changes involving movement from Sage to a new organizational system while preserving continuity and accurate posting of transactions.• 5+ years of experience managing payroll operations, accounts payable, or a combination of both in a complex business environment.
• Demonstrated expertise in full-cycle payroll processing, including multi-state payroll administration and compliance reporting.
• Hands-on experience with ADP Workforce Now and familiarity with payroll or financial systems such as Kronos, Sage 300, or Sage Intacct.
• Background supporting payroll volumes exceeding 500 employees and administering bi-monthly payroll schedules.
• Strong knowledge of payroll taxes, deductions, benefit-related transactions, 401(k) processing, and year-end reporting requirements.
• Proven ability to supervise staff, create procedures, and train team members to improve accuracy and efficiency.
• Solid reconciliation, audit support, and general ledger balancing skills with a high degree of attention to detail.
• Effective communication skills and the ability to work cross-functionally with finance, human resources, managers, and external partners.