Manager - HRIS, Benefits & Payroll

The Gig:

The Manager of HRIS, Benefits & Payroll is responsible for the day-to-day management and strategic oversight of the HRIS structure and operations, along with the full operational execution of Payroll and Benefits functions for corporate employees (US & UK).

This gig is based at VVHQ - our swanky Virgin Voyages Head Office in Plantation, FL where we follow a hybrid work environment. We can't wait to 'sea' you in person during our Collaboration Days, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, while you enjoy Mondays and Fridays' as remote days.

What You'll Be Up To:

HRIS Management:

This role focuses on the development, support, and continuous improvement of the Human Resource Information System (HRIS), including project planning and day-to-day operations. Responsibilities also include implementing and supporting system upgrades, patches, testing, and other assigned technical initiatives.

• Serve as system owner and key decision-maker for all HRIS platforms: Workday (Shoreside) and MarineExchange (Shipboard), supporting 8,500+ employees.

• Oversee day-to-day administration, configuration, and maintenance of all HR systems, ensuring data accuracy, user adoption, and alignment with business needs.

• Manage HR system implementations, upgrades, and configurations in collaboration with stakeholders, IT, and external vendors.

• Maintain and optimize integrations using RaaS, SFTP, Cloud Connect, SOAP, and REST APIs to support seamless data flow across platforms.

• Act as the primary point of contact for company-wide HRIS support and partner with IT on system-related initiatives.

• Develop and maintain training plans, launch communications, and change management strategies to support successful adoption of systems and tools.

• Leverage system capabilities and HR analytics to drive strategic insights

• Maintain expert-level knowledge of system releases and emerging HR tech trends to ensure platforms remain current and competitive.

Benefits Administration

This role is ultimately responsible for designing and implementing a competitive and comprehensive benefits offering. 

• Direct the full lifecycle of benefits administration, including enrollment, eligibility, terminations, and open enrollment for a diverse and global workforce.

• Oversee relationships with benefits vendors, driving plan optimization, cost management, and communication strategies to meet workforce needs.

• Ensure compliance with all benefits-related regulations, including ACA, ERISA, COBRA, and 401(k) requirements, including audits and annual filings.

• Lead benefit-related aspects of HR annual cycles such as open enrollment and communications planning.

• Support strategic planning by aligning benefit offerings with evolving employee expectations and organizational goals.

• Integrate acquired employee populations into existing benefits systems and programs, ensuring continuity, compliance, and a positive employee experience.

• Provide hands-on support to employees for benefit-related questions, serving as a trusted and knowledgeable resource.

Payroll Operations

This role is responsible for all payroll operations for US and UK.  This includes remote workers within the US and applicable state payroll practices.

• Oversee accurate and timely payroll processing for a multi-state workforce, ensuring compliance with all federal, state, and local laws.

• Direct payroll operations, including earnings setup, tax configuration, and system integrations with Payroll and HRIS platforms.

• Support payroll-related audits and reconciliations to ensure data accuracy, reporting integrity, and compliance with wage and hour laws.

• Serve as a direct resource for employee payroll inquiries, providing clear and timely support on pay, tax, and time-related matters.

• Lead payroll transitions during acquisitions, ensuring seamless integration into existing systems with full compliance and transparency.

People Operations, Compliance & Cross-Functional Leadership

• Drive continuous improvement across HR processes, with a focus on innovation, efficiency, and an exceptional employee experience.

• Partner with HR leadership to develop and execute strategies around compensation, performance management, and the employee lifecycle.

• Assist with employee relations matters including FMLA, ADA accommodations, policy enforcement, and investigations.

• Collaborate closely with Finance, Leg