Lead SAP Payroll Functional Consultant

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Lead SAP Payroll Functional Consultant (ECP or HCM) to lead a complex, large-scale U.S. payroll implementation. This role requires end-to-end leadership of configuration, testing, and integration efforts, ensuring the delivery of accurate, compliant, and scalable payroll solutions. The consultant will work closely with global teams and manage multiple workstreams.

Key Responsibilities

Lead workshops to define and document payroll requirements, ensuring stakeholder alignment.

Configure SAP Employee Central Payroll (ECP) or SAP HCM Payroll based on approved design documents and business needs.

Manage all implementation phases, including build, parallel payroll runs , SIT , UAT , and cutover activities .

Provide expertise in gross-to-net calculations , tax reporting , garnishments , year-end processes , and accrual setup .

Ensure smooth integration with SAP FI , Time Management , Benefits , Compensation , and third-party systems.

Troubleshoot issues, apply support packs, create custom rules / operations, and maintain payroll catalogs (e.g., wage types, off-cycle payroll, levy management).

Communicate effectively with stakeholders, provide timely updates, manage risks, and recommend solutions to improve payroll processes.

Required Skills & Qualifications

7+ years of hands-on SAP Payroll (ECP or HCM) configuration experience, with strong U.S. Payroll expertise.

Proven ability to lead complex implementations from requirements gathering through post-go-live support.

In-depth knowledge of wage type configuration , off-cycle payroll , garnishments , tax reporter , and BSI Tax Factory integration.

Experience delivering at least four full lifecycle SAP U.S. Payroll implementations.

Strong communication, stakeholder management, and client-facing skills.

Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a related field.

Familiarity with SAP SuccessFactors , Payroll Control Center (PCC) , and automation / process optimization tools.

4 5 years of experience in parallel payroll testing.

Additional Attributes

Self-motivated, adaptable, and proactive.

Skilled in building consensus across global teams.

Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a focus on quality and speed.

This is a key leadership role for a seasoned professional ready to drive a mission-critical U.S. payroll implementation to success.