Lead SAP Payroll Functional Consultant

Overview : We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Lead SAP Payroll Functional Consultant (ECP or HCM) to guide a large-scale, complex U.S. payroll implementation. This role involves leading requirement-gathering workshops, overseeing end-to-end configuration, conducting parallel payroll testing (including SIT and UAT), managing cutover activities, and ensuring seamless integration with related systems. You will collaborate with globally distributed teams, manage multiple workstreams, and ensure the delivery of accurate, compliant, and scalable payroll solutions. Key Responsibilities : Lead workshops to define and document payroll requirements, ensuring stakeholder alignment. Configure SAP Employee Central Payroll (ECP) or SAP HCM Payroll in accordance with approved design documents and business requirements. Oversee all phases of implementation-including build, parallel payroll runs, SIT, UAT, and cutover-delivering results on time and with high quality. Provide functional guidance on gross-to-net calculations, tax reporting, garnishments, year-end activities, and accrual setup. Manage integration points with SAP FI, Time Management, Benefits, Compensation, and third-party systems, ensuring end-to-end process efficiency. Troubleshoot issues, apply support packs, develop custom rules and operations, and maintain payroll catalogs (wage types, off-cycle payroll, levy management) to meet business needs. Communicate effectively with stakeholders, providing timely updates, addressing risks, and proposing solutions that enhance overall payroll effectiveness. Required Skills & Qualifications : Minimum 7 years of hands-on experience configuring SAP Payroll (ECP or HCM), with a strong focus on U.S. Payroll. Demonstrated success leading and delivering complex implementations, including requirement gathering, configuration, parallel payroll testing, and post-go-live support. Expertise in wage type configuration, off-cycle payroll processing, garnishment handling, tax reporter setup, and integration with BSI Tax Factory. Proven track record of at least 4 full lifecycle SAP US Payroll implementations. Exceptional communication, stakeholder management, and client-facing skills. Ability to work independently and handle multiple priorities in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. Preferred Qualifications : Bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with SAP SuccessFactors, Payroll Control Center (PCC), automation tools, and process optimization strategies. 4 5 years of experience executing parallel payroll testing. Additional Attributes : Self-driven, proactive, and adaptable in navigating complex configurations. Skilled at building consensus and maintaining alignment across diverse, global teams. Strong problem-solving abilities, with a focus on delivering high-quality results quickly. This is a challenging and rewarding opportunity for a seasoned professional to lead a significant U.S. payroll implementation and ensure a seamless, compliant, and efficient payroll environment.