[Hiring] Director, Payroll @Smartsheet

Role Description

Smartsheet is looking for a strategic and forward-thinking leader to join us as a Director, Payroll. In this role, you’ll own, improve, and manage global payroll processes.

Leading a global team, you’ll shape our approach to the payroll process, partnering with cross-functional teams to deliver payroll for all employees, supporting the company’s rapid growth and global expansion. This role requires strong leadership skills, extensive knowledge of global payroll practices, and the ability to navigate complex payroll landscapes.

You’ll report to our VP, Accounting Transformation & IA.

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing global payroll team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, accuracy, and exceptional service.
• Set strategic goals and objectives for the payroll department, ensuring alignment with the company's overall business strategy and operational demands.
• Develop strong stakeholder relationships and maintain a reputation as a team that ensures cross-functional collaboration.
• Oversee the end-to-end processing of complex multi-state and international payrolls, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with diverse global regulation.
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, local, and international payroll laws and regulations, including timely filing of all payroll tax returns, W-2s, and equivalent international tax documentation.
• Proactively monitor and adapt to changes in payroll laws and regulations globally, implementing necessary updates to systems and processes.
• Prepare and analyze comprehensive payroll reports for management, finance, and other stakeholders, providing actionable insights.
• Lead the evaluation, selection, implementation, and optimization of payroll systems, with significant experience in ADP or similar large-scale payroll software (e.g., Workday, SAP SuccessFactors, Ceridian Dayforce).
• Collaborate closely with HR, Finance, and IT departments to streamline processes, integrate systems, and enhance the overall employee experience.
• Drive special projects related to payroll, such as system migrations, new country expansions, or M&A integrations.
• Act as the primary point of contact for complex payroll-related inquiries from senior leaders, employees, and managers across all levels and regions.
• Resolve escalated payroll issues in a timely, accurate, and professional manner, maintaining high employee satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master's degree or relevant advanced certification is a bonus.
• 10+ years of progressive payroll experience, with at least 5 years in a leadership or management role, preferably within a SAAS or high-growth global technology company.
• Extensive hands-on experience with the implementation, configuration, and optimization of major global payroll systems (e.g., ADP Workforce Now, ADP Global Payroll, Workday Payroll, SAP SuccessFactors Employee Central Payroll, etc.).
• Demonstrated expertise in managing international payroll operations across multiple countries, including understanding of global tax implications and compliance requirements.
• Proven track record of building, managing, and developing a high-performing payroll team.
• Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) is highly preferred. Global Payroll Management Certificate (GPMI) is a strong asset.
• In-depth knowledge of federal, state, local, and international payroll laws and regulations.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively across all levels of the organization.
• Superior attention to detail, accuracy, and a strong commitment to data integrity.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, capable of navigating complex payroll scenarios in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• Ability to handle highly confidential information with the utmost discretion and integrity.
• Experience with AI or the willingness to assess and leverage AI as applicable.
• Candidates based within commuting distance of Smartsheet’s Bellevue office.

Benefits

• Employer subsidized medical/vision and dental coverage for full-time employees.
• 401k Match to help you save for your future (50% of your contribution up to the first 6% of your eligible pay).
• Monthly stipend to support your work and productivity.
• Flexible Time Away Program, plus Sick Time Off.
• US employees are automatically covered under Smartsheet-sponsored life insurance, short-term, and long-term disability plans.
• US employees receive 12 paid holidays per year.
• Up to 24 weeks of Parental Leave.
• Personal paid Volunteer Day to support our community.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development including access to Udemy online courses.
• Company Funded Perks, including a counseling membership, local retail discounts, and your own personal Smartsheet account.
• Teleworking options from any registered location in the U.S. (role specific).
• Smartsheet provides a competitive base salary range for roles that may be hired in different geographic areas we are licensed to operate our business from. Actual compensation is determined by several factors including, but not limited to, level of professional, educational experience, skills, and specific candidate location. In addition, this role will be eligible for a market competitive incentive opportunity.
• US Base Salary Pay Range: $165,000 — $210,000 USD.

Company Description

At Smartsheet, your ideas are heard, your potential is supported, and your contributions have real impact. You’ll have the freedom to explore, push boundaries, and grow beyond your role. We welcome diverse perspectives and nontraditional paths—because we know that impact comes from individuals who care deeply and challenge thoughtfully. When you’re doing work that stretches you, excites you, and connects you to something bigger, that’s magic at work. Let’s build what’s next, together.