Job: Payroll Manager/Accountant

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Jobing Description

Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research Overview

Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research is a leading, nonprofit research and educational institution that has defined the cutting edge of biomedical science, creating a legacy of research excellence and academic eminence since 1982. Wholly independent in its governance, finances and research programs, Whitehead shares a teaching affiliation with Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), offering the intellectual, collegial and scientific benefits of a leading research university. Whitehead's Faculty Members and Fellows run pioneering programs in cancer research, immunology, developmental biology, stem cell research, regenerative medicine, genetics and genomics--programs with a record of success.

Director David C. Page likens the Institute to an artists' colony. "What we do here at Whitehead is to attract the best possible intellectual capital and empower maximally creative--really wildly creative--individuals to realize their dreams within these walls".

Whitehead offers a generous comprehensive benefits package which includes health and dental plans, retirement program, paid time off, reimbursement accounts (FSAs), short and long term disability and much more.

Position Overview

Manage and coordinate the Institute's Payroll including processing and system administration in accordance with Institute policies and procedures; ensure compliance with regulatory reporting and recording of Payroll transactions in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).

Characteristic Duties

* Manage Payroll processing for both weekly and monthly Payroll cycles.
* Approve all payments related to Payroll, tax payments, etc.
* Provide and enhance the service orientation towards Institute employees, vendors and external agencies.
* Define workflow and review and approve output, as required for control and quality assurance.
* Establish and carry out procedures for regular processes, such as updating signature authorizations and overseeing the integrity of transaction processing, including check processing. Undertake periodic audits of related procedures.
* Remain up to date on tax and other regulatory changes that impact Payroll operations. Ensure that filing requirements and deadlines are being met and are in compliance with regulatory guidelines. Implement required changes.
* Prepare and file all quarterly and annual tax returns including year-end W-2's and 1099's. Respond to all regulatory requests.
* Support internal and external reporting, ensuring that all Payroll related transactions are recorded and reported in accordance with GAAP. Prepare all interim and year end closing entries.
* Review and document the interactions between Lawson Payroll Module and the General Ledger to determine appropriateness. Make recommendations and ensure that they are implemented, working with partner groups within the Institute.
* Provide the Controller and Manger of Budget and Financial Planning with an analysis of Payroll results throughout the year - actual to actual, as well as budget vs. actual and analysis of head count.
* Prepare schedules and related support for external audits (Institute and ERISA audits).
* Work with Human Resources and other departmental administrators to facilitate and improve processes; design and oversee tests of changes and enhancements to the financial accounting system and HR/Payroll system as they affect Payroll Office functions.
* Perform a thorough review of the entire Payroll process including weekly and monthly processing procedures, use of the Lawson Payroll module and all reporting, including year-end tax reporting. Make recommendations for improvements; manage implement those improvements.
* Contribute to business process improvements through review and creation of policies, workflows, procedures and forms.
* Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills / Requirements

Qualifications

* Eight-to-ten years of experience, preferably in a non-profit business setting. Demonstrated ability to manage processes from start to finish.
* Bachelor's Degree in accounting or an equivalent combination of education and experience that demonstrates knowledge of accounting principles.
* Complete familiarity with Payroll functions in a complex environment.
* Demonstrated ability to review existing processes along with the experience necessary to recommend and implement improvements.
* Experience supporting internal and external audits.
* Financial reporting and analysis skills.
* Knowledge of computer financial systems and reporting tools along with experience with upgrading financial systems.
* Strong customer service skills.