ADP, Accounting, Analysis Skills, Auditing, Automation, Best Practices, Coaching, Communication Skills, Compensation and Benefits, Cross-Functional, Data Sets, Documentation, External Audit, Finance, General Ledger Accounting, Internal Audit, Kronos Products, Leadership, Legal, Mentoring, Payroll Management, Payroll Software/Services, Payroll Tax, People Management, Process Improvement, Reconciliation, Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX), Systems Administration/Management, Tax Regulations, Team Player, Testing, Time Management, Trend Analysis
Position Summary: The Senior Payroll Analyst plays a critical role in managing and enhancing Sony Pictures Entertainment's complex payroll operations. This position is responsible for leading high-level payroll audits, reconciliations, compliance initiatives, and process improvements. The Senior Analyst also partners cross-functionally with HR, Finance, Tax, and Legal teams to ensure accurate payroll execution and supports projects that drive operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities:
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Lead and perform complex audits and reconciliations of payroll data, tax filings, general ledger postings, and timekeeping integrations.
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Serve as a subject matter expert on multi-jurisdictional payroll compliance, including tax regulations, wage and hour laws, and labor agreements.
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Act as payroll liaison for internal and external audits, including SOX and year-end audits, ensuring timely and accurate documentation.
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Identify and implement process improvements, automation opportunities, and system enhancements.
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Support the configuration and testing of payroll system changes, upgrades, and integrations (e.g., Workday, UKG, ADP).
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Mentor and coach junior team members, providing guidance on technical issues and process best practices.
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Prepare and present detailed payroll analysis and reports to leadership, highlighting trends, variances, and areas of concern.
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Collaborate on cross-functional projects related to compensation, benefits, equity, and international payroll coordination.
Qualifications:
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Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
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5+ years of progressive payroll experience in a large, complex, multi-state environment.
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Strong expertise with payroll systems (Workday, UKG/Kronos, ADP) and advanced Excel skills.
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In-depth understanding of payroll tax regulations, wage and hour compliance, and internal controls.
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Proven ability to analyze large datasets and translate findings into actionable insights.
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Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
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CPP certification strongly preferred.
Work Environment:
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Fast-paced, collaborative environment with cross-functional interactions.
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Hybrid schedule with on-site presence required during critical processing and project periods.