Payroll Operations Manager

1123932

Job type
Permanent
Location
Toronto
Profession
Human Resources
Industry
Staffing & Employment
Pay
$100,000 — $120,000

System implementation

Our client is seeking a Payroll Operations Manager to spearhead the migration from local payroll platforms to a centralized global payroll solution across the U.S. and Canada.

This role is ideal for a payroll leader with deep experience in systems implementation, data migration, and process standardization—someone who thrives on building scalable, compliant, and efficient payroll frameworks.

About the Role

In this high-impact position, you will own North American payroll operations while leading the full lifecycle of a global payroll system implementation, including requirements gathering, testing, parallel runs, stabilization, and ongoing optimization. You will collaborate closely with global headquarters, regional HR, Finance, and external providers to ensure the new platform meets both global standards and local regulatory requirements.

You will also oversee payroll governance, vendor management, and a small HR administration team supporting employment lifecycle processes.

Key Responsibilities

Global Payroll System Implementation (Core Focus)

Lead the transition from multiple local payroll systems to a unified global payroll platform, ensuring successful deployment across the U.S. and Canada.
Define system and process requirements in alignment with global HQ standards.
Oversee data migration, reconciliation, validation, and audit controls.
Conduct system testing, lead parallel payroll runs, and manage stabilization post–go‑live.
Ensure payroll configurations comply with federal, state, and provincial regulations.
Partner with HRIS stakeholders to maintain data accuracy, security, and global governance structures.

Payroll Operations Leadership

Oversee end‑to‑end payroll delivery for the region, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and on‑time processing.
Validate complex payroll calculations including bonuses, deductions, benefits, absences, and off‑cycle pay.
Manage vendor performance, SLAs, and issue escalation.
Coordinate timely statutory payments and ensure audit‑ready documentation.

Compliance & Risk Management

Ensure compliance with IRS regulations, FLSA, Canadian federal/provincial labor laws, and social security frameworks.
Monitor regulatory changes and implement required system updates.
Support internal and external audits.

Reporting & Financial Integration

Collaborate with Finance teams on payroll‑to‑GL reconciliation and month‑end close.
Deliver payroll analytics, cost insights, and standardized dashboards for leadership.

Team Leadership

Manage a small HR Administration team responsible for contracts, employee files, and lifecycle documentation.
Provide coaching, guidance, and performance support.

Qualifications

6+ years of payroll operations experience in a multinational environment.
Minimum 3 years managing payroll across both the U.S. and Canada.
Proven experience leading payroll system migrations, including global or centralized platforms.
Strong proficiency in ADP, SAP, and/or Workday (preferred).
Advanced Excel skills (Power BI or Tableau is an asset).
Strong knowledge of U.S. and Canadian payroll legislation.
Bachelor’s degree required; payroll certifications (CPP, CIPP/E, etc.) preferred.

Why This Role Stands Out