Understanding Government Compensation and Payroll

Compensation and payroll are often key responsibilities of finance officers. With that comes responsibility for managing: a process that accounts for a significant share of the organization’s operating budget; compliance with state and federal regulatory requirements; fulfillment of unique collective bargaining requirements; and critical benefits that are important to all employees in the organization. While many organizations manage these tasks routinely, there are often opportunities for significant improvements, including using technology solutions and external advisors. This session will explore how to best manage compensation structures, personnel budgeting, and payroll systems; the importance of compensation and payroll policies and procedures and having strong internal controls; utilizing technology; the basics of complying with federal regulations for state and local government entities; and attracting and retaining employees.

Instructors for this course include consultants and service providers, government payroll practitioners, and government budgeting and management experts. This course will combine presentations with participant discussions on ways for governmental entities to better understand and enhance their payroll and compensation programs.

Who Will Benefit: Government professionals responsible for or interested in payroll management.

• Learn the basic elements and steps involved in the payroll process
• Understand different methods for time entry and different purposes for tracking time
• Differentiate between compensation models
• Learn best practices related to budgeting for personnel
• Understand key federal regulations related to payroll
• Discuss strategies for addressing challenges and opportunities related to hiring and retaining employees
• Understand how to approach updating your current payroll system or implementing a new payroll system