Senior Manager HR Operations & Payroll

Description DIVE IN TO A NEW CAREER WITH LESLIE'S: Founded in 1963, Leslie's is the largest and most trusted direct-to-consumer brand in the U.S. pool and spa care industry. We serve the aftermarket needs of residential and professional consumers with an extensive and largely exclusive assortment of essential pool and spa care products. We operate an integrated ecosystem of 900+ retail locations, backyard service and repair, a robust digital platform, and manufacturing and distribution divisions across 35+ states—enabling consumers to engage with Leslie’s whenever, wherever, and however they prefer to shop. With over 60 years of providing best-in-class products and solutions to our customers, there is nothing that we value more than the development and growth of our team. We strive to create a positive and fun atmosphere where our Team Members feel valued and are enthusiastic about the contributions they make to the success of Leslie's. This position is not open to agency submissions. This position is based at our corporate office in Phoenix, AZ, and follows a hybrid work schedule. Remote work is not available for this role. Candidates must reside within commuting distance, as relocation assistance is not provided. Additionally, applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future employer-sponsored visa support. Job Overview: As the Sr. Manager over HR Operations and Payroll you will play a key role in overseeing and driving the success of these departments. You will develop and implement key processes and programs across the employee life cycle (onboarding, internal movement, and terminations), HRMs, and our payroll processes to provide accurate and timely support for all leaders and employees. Additionally, this role will be instrumental in developing and administering effective and efficient processes and controls, ensuring best practice operations, implementation of changes for continuous improvement in accuracy and efficiency, and compliance with applicable laws and company policies. Your role will focus heavily on building and maintaining strong internal partnerships, high quality best practices, and innovative use of HR technology. As a Leslie’s leader, you will play a crucial role in fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture that aligns with Leslie’s vision and values. Responsibilities: Manage implementation and continuous improvement of HRIS platforms (e.g., UKG). Oversee HRIS architecture, integrations, and system upgrades in partnership with IT. Ensure data governance, data integrity, and compliance with privacy regulations. Lead HRIS (UKG) system communication and controlled processes related to preboarding, employee changes, terminations and payroll. Develop and implement long-term HR & Payroll strategies to advance company objectives and drive growth. Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring efficiency, quality, and cost-effective management of HR resources. Monitor performance metrics and implement continuous improvement initiatives. Lead, build, and mentor a high performing team based on collaboration, innovation, and high performance. Identify recommendations to scale processes to enhance HR operational efficiency, including the design and implementation of HR internal controls, policies and procedures. Lead HRIS (UKG) system communication and controlled processes related to preboarding, employee changes, terminations and payroll. Perform HR & Payroll audits that are required or needed to support all HR department activities. Establish policies, procedures, and controls to ensure federal/state/local tax and Sarbanes Oxley(SOX) compliance. Qualifications: 5-7+ years of relevant experience, preferably in the retail or consumer goods industry. Proven track record of driving business growth and operational excellence. Bachelor’s in Human Resources, Business or related field. MBA or other advanced degree is preferred. Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills. Ability to drive organizational change and innovation. Knowledge of payroll reporting requirements for equity transactions, fringe benefits, tax filings and best practices Experience with UKG or similar HR-payroll system in a public company environment Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact and influence effectively with stakeholders at all levels. Must exhibit credibility when representing the Company in HR, payroll or tax matters, present a positive, persuasive, and professional presence, and ability to investigate and research matters in the best interest of the Company Highly proficient in Microsoft Suite programs (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, SharePoint, and more)  Leslie's provides a robust benefits package, including: Comprehensive medical, pharmacy, dental, & vision plan options. Health savings account (with enrollment in the high deductible health plan option). Health & dependent care flexible spending accounts. Company-paid basic life and AD&D insurance. Voluntary supplemental life insurance. Company-paid short-term disability and voluntary long-term disability insurance. Pre-tax and Roth 401(k) with company match. Paid vacation, sick, and bereavement leave. Paid holidays, including a floating personal day. Employee assistance and wellness programs. Earned Wage access is available, allowing early access to a portion of your earned wages before payday. Product discounts at Leslie’s Retail stores. Leslie’s recognizes a critical component to our continued success is our people.   Leslie’s is proud to have a culture of inclusion that seeks to celebrate and embrace the different backgrounds and perspectives that help drive our success and support team members in developing and growing with us. We aim to create a workplace where all team members feel welcomed and valued and inspire each other every day.