Ronald McClendon
Redford,MI
Summary
Payroll Implementation & HRIS Specialist with extensive experience leading payroll conversions, configuring HCM platforms, and supporting multi-state payroll operations across diverse industries. Skilled in workflow optimization, system buildouts, custom reporting, and cross-functional project leadership. Bring hands-on payroll processing knowledge combined with strong client-facing communication, training expertise, and a proven record of managing high-volume onboarding and system integrations. Adept at supporting HR modules, resolving complex payroll discrepancies, and guiding teams through successful system adoption. Known for leadership, coaching, and building high-performing payroll/HCM teams. Team-oriented professional prepared to take on leadership responsibilities with a focus on driving results and fostering collaboration. Proven success in managing teams, overseeing project execution, and adapting to dynamic work environments. Known for reliability, flexibility, and strong organizational skills, ensuring seamless team operations and achievement of goals.
Platforms: PrismHR, UKG, Paycor, Paychex, Heartland, ADP, Paylocity, Workday, ATS & Onboarding tools.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Payroll Conversion Team Lead/ Integration Project Specialist
Trion Solutions
10.2020 - Current
- Lead end-to-end payroll implementation projects as vendor-side project manager, guiding clients through system discovery, workflow mapping, configuration, testing, and first payroll.
- Configure payroll workflows, earnings/deductions, GL mappings, and onboarding templates to optimize system functionality.
- Build and customize HRIS reports and templates; assist clients in interpreting payroll analytics.
- Manage client expectations and timelines; deliver status reports, technical documentation, user guides, and training materials.
- Convert payroll data from legacy systems; validate accuracy of employee records, tax setups, YTD balances, and accruals.
- Support HR modules including onboarding, performance, expense, and ATS components.
- Monitor first payroll cycles to ensure accurate processing, tax withholding, benefits deductions, and compliance.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to plan integrations, mitigate risks, and resolve issues affecting system go-live.
- Experienced with multiple payroll vendors: PrismHR, UKG, Paylocity, Paycor, Paychex, Heartland, ADP, Workday.
- Plan, execute, and oversee client integration projects from inception to completion
- Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies to keep projects on track
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, sales, operations, and external vendors, to define integration requirements and objectives
- Led cross-functional teams to enhance project delivery and operational efficiency.
- Mentored junior staff, fostering skill development and promoting a collaborative team environment.
- Analyzed performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and drive strategic initiatives.
- Facilitated regular meetings to communicate progress, address challenges, and gather feedback from stakeholders.
- Collaborated with other department leads to streamline workflows, improve interdepartmental coordination, and achieve business goals collectively.
HR Operations Supervisor/ HCM System Specialist
PuzzleHR
06.2022 - 01.2025
- Oversee payroll operations for multi-state clients, ensuring accurate and timely payroll processing aligned with federal and state regulations.
- Lead optimization of client HCM systems, improving workflow automation, reporting accuracy, and overall platform efficiency.
- Manage, coach, and develop payroll & HCM specialists; oversee performance, workload distribution, and process adherence.
- Partner with Tax, Benefits, HR, and Finance to ensure compliant payroll operations and successful client pay cycles.
- Configure and support HRIS modules including onboarding, ATS, performance, and expense management.
- Conduct system testing, troubleshooting, and root-cause analysis for payroll discrepancies.
- Manage system implementations and platform migrations for new clients; ensure smooth transition of employee data, historical payroll, and system configuration.
- Support sales team by scoping onboarding needs and assisting with pricing proposals for implementation services.
- Maintain payroll confidentiality, secure PII handling practices, and ensure audit readiness.
- Completed bi-weekly payroll for 13,000 employees.
Payroll Specialist/Conversion Specialist
Heartland Payment Systems
03.2019 - 10.2021
- Managed an assigned portfolio of payroll clients with weekly, biweekly, semimonthly, and monthly cycles.
- Processed payroll by auditing timecards, validating PTO balances, updating deductions, and onboarding new hires.
- Researched and corrected payroll inaccuracies including tax setup issues, garnishments, and compliance errors.
- Coordinated with implementation leaders to support payroll conversions and troubleshoot data discrepancies.
- Responded to 10–50 inbound client calls per day, resolving technical payroll issues with urgency and professionalism.
- Collaborated with compliance teams to communicate regulatory updates and ensure client adherence.
Training Manager
Associated Community Services
12.2012 - 03.2019
- Managed multiple departments: Production (sales floor), Verification, Grading/Training, and Collections.
- Supervised 50+ employees across soundboard, live call, and verification teams; delivered performance coaching and corrective action plans.
- Conducted training programs for new hires and campaign-specific initiatives.
- Led political campaign operations and stakeholder meetings to deliver performance updates and auditing results.
- Ensured compliance, documentation accuracy, and adherence to quality standards across operations.
- Developed and implemented training programs to enhance employee performance and compliance.
- Conducted needs assessments to identify skill gaps and tailor training solutions accordingly.
- Collaborated with leadership to align training initiatives with organizational goals and objectives.
Skills
- Payroll Processing
- Payroll Implementation
- System Configuration
- HRIS Support
- HCM Platform Optimization
- Multi-State Payroll
- Custom Reporting & Analytics
- Workflow Automation
- Data Conversion & Validation
- Project Management
- Client Training
- Team Leadership
- Compliance & Audits
- Team leadership
- Stakeholder relations
- Documentation management
- Project management
- Quality assurance
- Team collaboration
Timeline
HR Operations Supervisor/ HCM System Specialist
PuzzleHR
06.2022 - 01.2025
Payroll Conversion Team Lead/ Integration Project Specialist
Trion Solutions
10.2020 - Current
Payroll Specialist/Conversion Specialist
Heartland Payment Systems
03.2019 - 10.2021
Training Manager
Associated Community Services
12.2012 - 03.2019