Payroll Manager

Overview

Proof of the Pudding is an award-winning catering company throughout the Southeast with a commitment to creating quality culinary concepts from scratch. This standard was upheld through the expansion into Sports and Entertainment Food & Beverage Services by providing elevated concessions and premium offerings to collegiate stadiums, golf tournaments, International Boat Shows, Professional Sports Teams, and more.

We are seeking a Payroll Manager to join our Proof of the Pudding team. The Payroll Manager handles all aspects of preparing and distributing employees’ payments. This individual contributor position is responsible for processing payroll biweekly, while working with finance and human resources on all tasks/processes involving payroll and how it integrates with each department.

• Process bi-weekly or weekly payroll for up to 3,000 employees across multiple locations and states.
• Manage and engage in the day-to-day operations for the payroll for both multi-entity and state payroll processes.
• Handle general inquiries regarding payroll and time/attendance.
• Perform a variety of functions in preparation, distribution and reporting of payroll, ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations and laws.
• Work closely with HR and management teams to implement process improvements, test system changes, and lead special projects within the payroll department.
• Audit all benefit bills monthly to ensure accuracy for the finance department.
• Serve as the main payroll liaison for any yearly financial audit and oversee the collection of audit information and function as the point of contact for payroll related audit questions.
• Maintain internal controls to ensure the integrity of the payroll system.
• Provide reports so that the reconciliation, remittance and reporting for state, federal and provincial tax is completed in accordance with government deadlines.
• Manage the issuance of the annual W2s, and any other payroll related forms for income tax.
• Manage COBRA, benefit elections and terminations in benefit systems.
• Respond to advanced inquiries from employees regarding deductions, payments, allowances or discrepancies in pay.
• Ensure payroll is completed accurately, on time, and in compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
• Review and validate timesheets, PTO, overtime, adjustments, and special pay.
• Manage garnishments, deductions, and benefits-related payroll entries.
• Reconcile payroll data and collaborate with Finance on journal entries and reporting.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for employee payroll inquiries; research and resolve issues promptly.
• Prepare payroll reports for leadership, auditors, and internal departments as needed.
• Ensure compliance with wage and hour laws, tax regulations, and internal policies.
• Support year-end processes including W-2s, audits, and system updates.
• Strong knowledge of FLSA laws and practices.
• Assist with system improvements, new payroll features, and process optimization.
• Performs other duties as needed for the role.

• 3–5+ years of payroll experience, preferably in a high-volume environment (1,000–3,000+ employees).
• Strong knowledge of payroll laws, multi-state regulations, and payroll tax requirements.
• Experience with major payroll systems (ADP, Paycom, UKG, Paycor or similar).
• Exceptional accuracy, attention to detail, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines and manage competing priorities.
• Strong communication and customer-service mindset when interacting with employees and management.
• Proficiency in Excel and payroll reporting.
• CPP certification (preferred but not required).
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule based on business needs, including potential holidays, weekends, and evening shifts.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience preferred.
• Strong in project management experience.
• Some HR related exposure with experience working in a shared service environment.
• Thrives in fast-paced, high-volume environments.
• Is proactive, analytical, and solutions-focused.
• Maintains professionalism and confidentiality at all times.

This position will office out of Proof of…