Job Overview:

The Total Pay Operations Project Specialist – Payroll Centralization serves as the subject-matter expert for Total Pay Operations, leading and supporting projects that consolidate and optimize payroll operations across the enterprise. This role manages initiatives focused on standardizing payroll processes, integrating systems, and improving compliance and efficiency. The Specialist collaborates cross-functionally with HR, Operations, and IT to ensure the successful implementation of centralized payroll solutions and the achievement of project goals.

Job Responsibilities:

Core Responsibilities:

• Leads and supports payroll centralization projects from planning through execution, focused on the Total Pay Operations action items and responsibilities.

• Analyzes payroll data, system capabilities, and process gaps to inform project decisions and drive process improvements.

• Collaborates cross-functionally with internal stakeholders and external partners to align project objectives, timelines, and success criteria, ensuring strategic integration across functions.

• Identifies standard operating procedures and develops documentation for new standardized payroll processes and system integrations.

• Tracks project milestones, risks, and issues, and communicates updates to the project manager, leadership, and stakeholders.

• Supports payroll audits, compliance reviews, and readiness assessments during transitions.

Project Responsibilities:

• Leads meetings and working sessions across payroll.

• Determines appropriate metrics and data sources for tracking project progress and payroll performance. Implements and manages the identified reporting process.

• Identifies gaps and opportunities for automation and process improvement.

• Provides operational support to payroll leads and project managers during implementation phases.

• Provide specialized knowledge and expertise to drive project success and effectiveness.

• Defines requirements and validates solutions.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

 Job Requirements:

Education/ Certifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, or related field preferred; equivalent professional experience may be substituted.

Experience:

• 2-4 years of experience in project management, coordination, or other relevant experience.

• 3-5 years of experience in report building and analysis, KPI tracking relevant to business value or other business metrics.

• 1-3 years of experience in running small to medium-scale projects.

• Experience working in project management software and tracking.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Advanced proficiency in HCM and payroll systems and reporting tools.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.

• Effective communication and collaboration abilities.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently in a fast-paced environment.

• Good judgment is required for this position as there may be times when direct supervision may not be immediately available.

Work Environment:

Remote Role:

• This position is classified as remote, where the associate will perform remote work from their primary residence. Remote associates are welcome to work from the office but are not required to do so. While remote associates are not required to work from an office on a regular basis, they may be required to come to the office or other UNFI locations for necessary business reasons or if directed to do so by their manager.

Travel (minor):

• This position may require the associate to travel to company offices, distribution centers, or other locations for specific meetings or other business reasons.

Physical Environment/Demands:

Office Roles:

• Most work is performed in a temperature-controlled office environment.

• Incumbent may sit for long periods at a desk or computer terminal.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.

• Incumbent may use calculators, keyboards, telephones, and other office equipment during the normal workday.

• Stooping, bending, twisting, and reaching may be required in the completion of job duties.

About UNFI: We are North America’s premier grocery wholesaler, delivering the widest variety of fresh, branded, and owned-brand products to community grocers and retail chains alike. A pioneer in natural and organic foods, we are growing and transforming to meet the needs of an evolving workplace. Our 29,000+ employees work across America in our 50 Distribution Centers and corporate offices. Learn more: Organic, Natural, and Conventional Food | Wholesale Food Distributors | UNFI

Benefits: Competitive 401k, Flexible PTO plan, Remote, Health benefits – first of the month following 30 days of employment, mentorship program/developmental opportunities, etc.

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