Manager, Total Rewards | US at Degreed

Degreed is the upskilling platform that fuels growth and innovation through lifelong learning. We bring together everything you need to learn and advance: LMSs, courses, videos, articles, projects, and real-world skill insights, matching you with opportunities that align with your skills, role, and goals. For businesses, Degreed helps build a culture of learning that attracts, develops, and retains top talent, driving both individual and company success. We believe learning is the key to unlocking opportunities. Our mission is to discover, empower, and celebrate the next generation of global expertise. Join us in shaping the future of learning and workforce development! Degreed is seeking a Manager, Total Rewards to provide strategic oversight of global payroll operations, benefits, and total rewards, ensuring consistency, compliance, and operational excellence across our global workforce. This role plays a critical part in ensuring the financial integrity, compliance, and scalability of our payroll and benefits operations as Degreed continues to grow globally. Working closely with People Operations, Finance, and external vendors, you will oversee global payroll processes, benefits administration, and internal controls, while also supporting broader Total Rewards initiatives such as compensation cycles, reporting, and systems optimization. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys bringing structure to complexity, improving processes, and building scalable global operations, while partnering cross-functionally to deliver a high-quality employee experience. Key Skills • 5+ years of progressive experience across payroll and benefits, with experience and/or exposure to Total Rewards. • Proven ability to build and scale Total Rewards infrastructure and processes. • Experience overseeing payroll across multiple geographies (US and EMEA required; additional regions a plus) with strong knowledge of payroll compliance, tax regulations, and statutory benefits requirements. • Hands-on experience with payroll and HRIS systems such as HiBob, ADP Workforce Now, Deel, Papaya Global, or similar platforms. • Experience supporting compensation processes such as merit cycles, bonus programs, and benchmarking preferred. • Strong attention to detail with a commitment to accuracy, controls, and operational integrity. • Experience managing vendors, brokers, and third-party administrators. • Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data and generate insights. • Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, global environment and drive process improvements. Key Responsibilities Total Rewards Strategy & Optimization • Help build and scale a cohesive global Total Rewards strategy that supports talent attraction, retention, and organizational growth. • Support compensation cycles, including merit, bonus, and benchmarking processes. • Own Total Rewards reporting and insights, including analysis of trends, costs, and program effectiveness. • Drive process improvements and automation across payroll, benefits, and Total Rewards systems. • Support the development and delivery of annual Total Rewards statements for employees. Payroll Governance & Oversight • Ensure data integrity across all employee lifecycle events, including hires, compensation changes, life events, and terminations. • Review and approve payroll across all geographies (US, EMEA, and other regions), providing independent audit oversight and backup coverage. • Oversee off-cycle payments, adjustments, and corrections to ensure accuracy and compliance. • Lead quarterly payroll audits and year-end processes, including W-2 preparation, tax documentation, and regulatory reporting. • Partner with Finance to ensure accurate payroll reconciliation, reporting, and financial alignment. • Serve as the escalation point for payroll-related inquiries, discrepancies, and compliance matters. Benefits Administration & Vendor Management • Ensure accurate alignment between payroll and benefits deductions across all payroll cycles. • Oversee benefits eligibility, life events, and separation coordination globally. • Manage relationships with brokers, vendors, and third-party administrators across payroll and benefits providers. • Partner with People Operations and Finance on annual renewals, vendor negotiations, and cost strategy. • Lead system audits, data cleanup, and benefits configuration updates within payroll platforms. • Ensure compliance with statutory leave programs across jurisdictions. • Oversee administration and communication of global retirement and pension programs. Systems, Controls & Compliance • Own operational management of payroll and benefits systems, including integrations and data flows. • Maintain appropriate access controls and conduct regular system audits. • Establish and maintain strong internal controls and review processes. • Ensure compliance with payroll, tax, and benefits regulations across all jurisdictions. • Support global payroll and benefits platforms, including implementations and ongoing governance. Compensation We are committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The total pay range for this role is $170,000 - $200,000. Actual compensation packages are based on several factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to: skill set, depth of experience, certifications, specific work location, and internal equity. Benefits We take care of our people with a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and success. View the full details here: [Upgrade to PRO to see link] At Degreed, We Value 🌍 Diversity & Inclusion – We celebrate diverse perspectives and backgrounds, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive and contribute. 📈 Growth Mindset – Learning is at the heart of what we do. We empower our employees to continuously develop their skills and grow their careers in alignment with their unique strengths and aspirations. 🤝 Collaboration – The best ideas come from working together. We cultivate a culture of open communication, teamwork, and shared success. By joining Degreed, you’ll be part of a community that values learning, collaboration, and meaningful impact. If you’re passionate about driving change through upskilling and workforce transformation, we encourage you to apply and contribute to our mission. Work Environment & Physical Demands Degreed offers flexible work arrangements tailored to each role. Some positions are fully remote, while others follow a hybrid model for employees near an office. Please check the job details for role-specific requirements. For remote and hybrid roles, you’ll collaborate virtually using tools like Zoom and Slack. This role may require prolonged computer use and stationary work, with the ability to interpret written and verbal communication effectively. We are committed to creating an inclusive and adaptable work environment that enables every team member to thrive and do their best work. Additional Information Degreed is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, career development, compensation, and training. 💡 Accessibility & Accommodations – We are dedicated to full inclusion and will provide reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities throughout the hiring process. If you need assistance, please let us know. 🔍 Fair Hiring Practices – In compliance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. 📄 E-Verify Participation – Degreed participates in the E-Verify employment verification program. Global Data Privacy Notice for Job Candidates & Applicants If you’re applying from specific regions, your personal data may be processed in line with applicable privacy laws, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA). To understand how we handle applicant data, please review our Global Data Privacy Notice and related policies: • Global Privacy Notice • DPR Compliance Details By submitting your application, you acknowledge and agree to our use and processing of your data in compliance with applicable laws. Fraudulent Recruitment Warning 🚨 Beware of fraudulent recruitment scams using the Degreed name. Scammers may impersonate our company, website, or hiring team. Degreed will never: ❌ Conduct recruitment via WhatsApp, Telegram, or direct-messaging platforms. ❌ Request sensitive personal or financial information in unsolicited communications. ❌ Offer jobs requiring upfront payments or promising unrealistic returns. ✅ Official Degreed communications will always come from a @degreed.com email address or phone number during the hiring process. If you encounter suspicious activity, please report it immediately. Stay vigilant and protect yourself from fraud.