Payroll Initiatives Lead

OpenAI

. Lead payroll integrations for global M&A transactions from transition planning through stabilization .

Posted 10/6/2026full-timeSan Francisco • California • United StatesSenior💰 $221,000 - $245,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates extensive experience in leading payroll integrations for M&A transactions, with a strong focus on global payroll regulations and best practices. Proficient in managing payroll operations, ensuring data integrity, and collaborating across multiple teams to enhance payment-processing capabilities.

Highest-signal resume keywords

M&A Payroll IntegrationsGlobal Payroll RegulationsWorkday PayrollPayroll Operations ManagementAnalytical Problem-Solving

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Payroll IntegrationGlobal Payroll RegulationsPayment ProcessingData IntegrityYear-End ProcessingEquity CompensationVariable CompensationFinal Pay ProcessingCompliance ReportingProcess Automation

Soft Skills

Clear CommunicationAttention to DetailOwnership of OutcomesStakeholder PartnershipPrioritization

Tools & Technologies

Workday PayrollHCM Systems

Industry Keywords

Payroll OperationsM&A TransactionsHigh-Growth EnvironmentFinanceAccountingHR

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead payroll integrations for global M&A transactions from transition planning through stabilization
Partner with acquired companies to complete final payrolls accurately and on time, including equity, variable compensation, final pay, and deal-related payments
Integrate acquired employees into OpenAI’s payroll systems, processes, controls, and service model while maintaining continuity of pay
Oversee closure of legacy payroll systems and accurate, compliant year-end processing and reporting
Develop and improve global payment-processing capabilities across multiple countries and payment types
Lead global payroll system and provider integrations, ensuring data integrity and effective upstream and downstream connections
Partner across Payroll, Finance, Tax, Legal, People, Equity, and other teams on strategic initiatives and complex operational challenges
Identify risks, strengthen controls, and automate repeatable processes to scale payroll operations

Requirements

What you’ll need

8+ years of progressive experience in payroll operations, preferably in a fast-paced or high-growth environment
Strong working knowledge of global payroll regulations and standard best practices
Experience leading M&A payroll integrations
Hands-on experience with Workday Payroll or other large HCM/global payroll systems
Ability to independently manage priorities, take ownership of outcomes, and deliver high-quality work under tight deadlines
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with excellent attention to detail
Clear and concise communication skills, with the ability to partner effectively with internal and external stakeholders
Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, HR, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience

Benefits

Comp & perks

Equity
Performance-related bonus(es) for eligible employees
Medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your family, with employer contributions to Health Savings Accounts
Pre-tax accounts for Health FSA, Dependent Care FSA, and commuter expenses (parking and transit)
401(k) retirement plan with employer match
Paid parental leave (up to 24 weeks for birth parents and 20 weeks for non-birthing parents)
Paid medical and caregiver leave (up to 8 weeks)
Flexible PTO for exempt employees
Up to 15 days annual PTO for non-exempt employees
13+ paid company holidays
Multiple paid coordinated company office closures throughout the year
Paid sick or safe time
Mental health and wellness support
Employer-paid basic life and disability coverage
Annual learning and development stipend
Daily meals in offices
Meal delivery credits as eligible
Relocation support for eligible employees
Charitable donation matching and wellness stipends may also be provided