Payroll ManagerAre you looking to join a team of go-getters dedicated to serving and uplifting the community? Join the Detroit Pistons team and our mission to use the power of basketball to unite, entertain, and be impactful.The Payroll Manager oversees all payroll operations for the organization, including NBA players (and future WNBA personnel), coaches, basketball operations staff, business operations staff, and part-time/event staff. This role requires deep knowledge of payroll regulations, league and tax compliance requirements, and the ability to manage highly confidential information with professionalism and discretion.
The ideal candidate will also bring an innovative approach to improving and streamlining existing payroll processes and systems.Key ResponsibilitiesComplete end-to-end payroll processing for all employees, including full-time and part-time staff, athletes, coaches, and game-day personnelCoordinate multi-state/provincial and international payroll requirements for players and traveling staff, and communicate with Players and representativesCoordinate with league representatives to ensure compliance with league rules, collective bargaining agreements (CBAs), and tax regulationsInterpret and administer compensation payments and ensure proper payroll categorizationOversee, review and coordinate all employee deduction activities including 401K and garnishmentsManage payroll-related audits and/or audit requests, including 401K, workers compensation, financial and league or regulatory reviewsReview and approve payroll tax reports and ensure timely remittance of taxes and statutory deductionsProvide cash management reporting for all processed and projected payrollsHandle year-end tax reporting and reconciliationPartner with HR for oversight of HRIS/payroll systems, ensuring data accuracy, security, and proper integrationRespond to manager, employee and designated representative payroll inquiries and resolve discrepanciesAssist with preparation of payroll journal entries, and month end payroll account reconciliationsRequirementsBachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or equivalent work experience in payroll field5–8+ years of payroll experience, with at least 2–3 years in a manager environmentExperience in sports, entertainment, or organizations with complex compensation and taxation structures strongly preferredCertified Payroll Professional (CPP) or equivalent designation is an assetStrong knowledge of 401(k) plans including management, oversight and complianceStrong knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, and compliance requirements (multi-jurisdictional experience preferred)Familiarity with CBAs and athlete compensation structures is a plusSkills & CompetenciesDeep attention to detail and accuracyStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsAbility to handle confidential and sensitive informationProficiency in Paylocity payroll system a plus and advanced Excel skillsExcellent communication and interpersonal skillsAbility to operate in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment tied to the NBA and future WNBA calendarWorking ConditionsPosition requires flexible work during certain times including bi-weekly and semi-monthly payroll processing, basketball season, and year-end processingCoordination with basketball and accounting staffPreferred (NBA-Specific Experience)Experience working with player contracts, bonuses, and endorsement-related paymentsKnowledge of salary cap mechanics, escrow, and benefit programs under the NBA CBAExperience handling payroll for unionized environments and high-profile employeesExperience with the duty day method of allocating professional athlete compensation to various statesWe are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.We are dedicated to ensuring equal access throughout the employment process. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities to enable participation in the application and interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.
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