Director, Payroll

Payroll Director

Datavant is a data platform company and the world's leader in health data exchange. Our vision is that every healthcare decision is powered by the right data, at the right time, in the right format. Our platform is powered by the largest, most diverse health data network in the U.S., enabling data to be secure, accessible and usable to inform better health decisions. Datavant is trusted by the world's leading life sciences companies, government agencies, and those who deliver and pay for care. By joining Datavant today, you're stepping onto a high-performing, values-driven team. Together, we're rising to the challenge of tackling some of healthcare's most complex problems with technology-forward solutions. Datavanters bring a diversity of professional, educational and life experiences to realize our bold vision for healthcare.

The Payroll Director will lead and manage all aspects of global payroll operations, ensuring accurate and compliant processing across multiple geographies. This role is responsible for overseeing payroll systems, managing vendor and Professional Employer Organization (PEO) relationships, and driving process improvements to support a rapidly scaling business. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in global payroll practices, strong system knowledge (Oracle HCM, ADP, ADP Celargo and UKG), and proven experience in building compliant, efficient payroll functions in complex environments.

Key Responsibilities

Direct and oversee end-to-end payroll operations globally, ensuring accurate and timely processing for all employees. This includes claims, terminations, severance and off-cycle payroll.

Manage relationships with PEOs, payroll vendors, and third-party providers to ensure compliance and service quality.

Ensure compliance with federal, state, and international labor laws, tax regulations, and reporting requirements.

Oversee payroll systems, integrations, and process improvements with Oracle HCM, ADP, ADP Celargo and UKG.

Collaborate with Finance, HR, and Legal to align payroll operations with broader organizational priorities.

Establish and monitor payroll controls, audits, and reporting to ensure data integrity and accuracy.

Drive standardization, automation, and best practices across all global payroll processes.

Provide strategic guidance to senior leadership on payroll-related issues, compliance risks, and international expansion impacts.

Lead and develop a high-performing payroll team.

Timely and effective communication with employees at all levels of the organization for payroll related issues.

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, or related field.

10+ years of payroll experience with at least 5 years in a leadership role.

Demonstrated expertise in multi-country payroll management.

Strong working knowledge of Oracle HCM, ADP, and UKG systems.

Proven experience working with and managing PEO relationships.

Deep understanding of federal, state, and international payroll compliance requirements.

Excellent leadership, analytical, and communication skills.

Desired Qualifications

CPP (Certified Payroll Professional) or similar certification.

Experience scaling payroll operations in high-growth, global organizations.

Strong project management skills and experience with system implementations or upgrades.

Ability to influence and collaborate across functions and geographies.

Demonstrated success in driving process improvement and automation initiatives.