Meet The Team

Client Focused. Locally Owned. Payroll Re-Defined.

Our team is dedicated to delivering accurate, compliant, responsive payroll and HR support to businesses across the California Central Coast.

As part of the nationally recognized Payroll Vault network, we combine advanced technology with a highly personalized, service-first approach—so you always know your payroll is being handled correctly.

What Makes Our Team Different

No long-term contracts — we earn your business every day
Dedicated payroll experts who know your business
Proactive compliance support
Responsive, real-person service when you need it
Modern, cloud-based tools with full transparency
California payroll law specialists

We’re not just processing payroll—we’re helping you stay organized, compliant, and confident.

Our Core Values

Integrity. Accountability. Service. Collaboration. Community.
These values guide how we support our clients and how we work together as a team.

Why Clients Work With Our Team

Our clients choose us because they know:

Their payroll will be handled accurately and on time
They’ll have direct access to knowledgeable professionals
They’re supported by a team that understands their business
They are never locked into a long-term contract

We take pride in building long-term relationships—because our clients stay with us by choice, not obligation.

Meet Our Team

Karen Mora | Founder & CEO

Karen Mora founded Payroll Vault Santa Barbara to provide a reliable, service-driven payroll solution backed by strong local expertise and the national strength of the Payroll Vault network.

With over 20 years of experience in payroll and business operations, she helps business owners simplify processes, maintain compliance, and operate with confidence.

Karen is also the founder of Accountability Plus, a Santa Barbara-based bookkeeping and advisory firm, giving her a deep understanding of how payroll integrates with broader financial operations.
Ovidio "OV" Mora | Owner

Ovidio Mora, fondly known as “OV”, co-founded Payroll Vault Santa Barbara alongside Karen, bringing decades of business ownership experience and a strong commitment to client relationships.
Cindy Hanna | Payroll Director

Cindy Hanna brings nearly 30 years of experience in administration and client service, with a passion for building relationships and delivering dependable support.

As Payroll Director, she ensures payroll is processed accurately and efficiently while providing clients with responsive, personalized service they can trust.
Frank Palmieri | Payroll Sales

Frank Palmieri works closely with prospective clients to understand their needs and introduce Payroll Vault’s solutions.

With a background in financial services and tax preparation, he helps business owners evaluate payroll systems with confidence and clarity.
Kaylie Lyness | Payroll Support Manager

Kaylie Lyness brings deep payroll system expertise from her background with iSolved, along with over a decade of customer service experience.

She supports both internal operations and client needs, ensuring smooth, efficient payroll processing and system functionality.
Chery Cerise, MBA, SHRM-CP | Administration & HR

Chery Cerise brings extensive leadership expertise in HR, payroll, business operations, and compliance. She plays a key role in strengthening internal systems and supporting both the team and clients with practical, real-world insight.

Her background in HR and organizational strategy enhances Payroll Vault’s ability to support workforce-related needs alongside payroll services.