Director of Payroll

About Ascend

Ascend is Brooklyn’s premier K–12 public charter network, committed to graduating high-achieving students who have access to boundless choice in their futures—not only through college acceptance, but through meaningful preparation for career readiness and thriving adult lives. Across our schools, we pair rigorous academics with strong systems, supportive adult culture, and a deep belief in students’ brilliance and potential. Our work is grounded in the understanding that preparing students for long-term success requires excellence in instruction, intentional culture-building, and disciplined execution at every level of the organization. At Ascend, adults are held to high standards because our students deserve nothing less. How we teach, lead, collaborate, and make decisions every day directly shapes the opportunities our students will have tomorrow. Join us in shaping learning environments where curiosity is nurtured, excellence is the norm, and every student is prepared for a lifetime of boundless choice.

About the Role

Reporting to the Controller, the Director of Payroll manages the team responsible for processing semi-monthly payrolls for Ascend Charter Schools and for interfacing with Ascend’s human resources and payroll systems to meet business needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in payroll, HRIS, or related HR/finance operations roles.
• Strong experience working with HRIS or data management systems.
• Highly proficient in Excel and financial data analysis.
• Exceptional attention to detail with zero tolerance for payroll inaccuracies.
• Strong organizational, project management, and time‑management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and openness to feedback.
• Strong communication and customer service orientation.
• Demonstrated alignment with Ascend’s mission and educational values.

Responsibilities

• Assigns, directs, and supervises all Payroll team members to ensure seamless payroll administration, including compliance and tax-related filings and reporting
• Leads process improvements within HR and finance systems by leveraging HRIS and business analysis technology to enhance operational efficiency
• Drives cross-functional collaboration between Finance, HR, and Talent to develop and optimize business processes, including the Staffing/Vacancy model, real-time position control management, reporting, and ad hoc data analysis
• Ensures payroll systems and operations adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, policies, and procedures; advises team members and resolves non-routine issues as they arise
• Reviews and approves the payroll system enhancement agenda
• Serves as the primary resource for school personnel on payroll matters; resolves discrepancies in payroll administration, records, and disbursements; responds to inquiries at staff meetings and other functions; and completes required payroll surveys and reports
• Oversees the design, management, and administration of Ascend's retirement plan, including partnerships with the plan recordkeeper, broker/financial advisor, TPA, auditor, and ERISA counsel; ensures timely and accurate plan contributions in compliance with plan rules and federal regulations

Staff and Reporting Relationships

The Director of Payroll reports to the Controller.

Compensation

The salary for this position begins at $95,000. Salaries are determined using an equitable compensation scale that accounts for years of experience and levels of attained education.

Location & Work Arrangement

Based in our Brooklyn, NY office

Hybrid work schedule requiring in-office presence at least three days per week

In-person work expectations include network office time, stakeholder meetings, school visits, special events, and other role-specific responsibilities as determined by management.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer matching
• Generous paid time off and additional employee benefits