Payroll & Benefits Manager

SUMMARY

We are seeking an experienced, highly compliance-focused Payroll & Benefits Manager to lead the organization’s payroll operations and ensure accurate, compliant administration of employee benefits programs, who will be reporting to the Head of Human Resources. This role is primarily focused on payroll execution, statutory compliance, and governance, while also owning essential benefits administration responsibilities that directly impact employees and regulatory adherence. Additionally, the successful candidate will serve as a key subject-matter expert on Ontario payroll legislation and compliance, partnering closely with HR, Finance, and external agencies to mitigate risk, support audits, and ensure accurate and timely payroll delivery.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Payroll Management & Compliance (~75–80%)

Own and manage end‑to‑end payroll processing, ensuring timely and accurate payroll delivery for all employee groups Ensure full compliance with CRA regulations, including Income Tax Act requirements, CPP, EI, and applicable provincial legislation Oversee payroll remittances, statutory deductions, and employer contributions in accordance with federal and provincial requirements Manage Records of Employment (ROEs), T4s, T4As, and all year‑end payroll processes Monitor legislative and regulatory changes impacting payroll; assess impact and implement required updates proactively Maintain strong payroll governance through documented internal controls, reconciliations, approvals, and segregation of duties Review and validate complex payroll calculations, including retroactive pay, overtime, taxable benefits, allowances, and garnishments Partner with Finance to reconcile payroll to the general ledger and ensure financial accuracy Lead payroll audit preparation and response (internal, external, and regulatory audits) Act as the escalation point for complex payroll compliance issues and corrective actions Develop, maintain, and enforce payroll policies, procedures, and documentation aligned with Canadian legislation

Payroll Systems & Process Optimization

Act as the payroll system owner within HRIS and payroll platforms namely Day Force/Ceridian Identify and implement process improvements to enhance compliance, efficiency, and audit readiness Lead payroll system configurations, upgrades, testing, and controls validation as required Ensure strong data integrity across time and attendance, and payroll systems

Benefits Administration ( ~20–25%)

Manage the accurate administration of employee benefits programs, including health, dental, life, disability, retirement, and statutory benefits Ensure benefits programs and deductions comply with applicable legislation and plan rules Oversee benefits enrollments, eligibility changes, and life‑event processing Partner closely with payroll to ensure accurate benefit deductions, remittances, and taxable benefit reporting Liaise with benefits providers, brokers, and third-party administrators Resolve employee benefit issues requiring coordination with payroll, HR, and vendors

Leadership & Stakeholder Partnership

Provide payroll compliance expertise to cross-functional partners Maintain the highest standards of confidentiality, data security, and ethical payroll practices Build effective working relationships with external agencies, auditors, and service providers

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Accounting, Finance, or a related field CPM (Certified Payroll Manager) designation (MUST HAVE) 5+ years of Ontario based payroll manager experience with strong compliance accountability In‑depth knowledge of payroll legislation, CRA requirements, CPP, EI, and provincial regulations Demonstrated experience supporting audits and managing payroll controls Hands-on experience with enterprise payroll and HRIS systems Advanced Excel and payroll reporting skills

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working in the not-for-profit, broader public sector, or government environment Experience with complex payroll structures and multiple entities.

Core Competencies

Strong payroll compliance and risk management orientation Exceptional attention to detail and analytical skills Ability to interpret and apply complex provincial payroll legislation Clear, professional communication with internal and external stakeholders Ability to manage deadlines in highly regulated environments