Global Payroll Implementation Specialist

We are seeking a highly skilled Global Payroll Implementation Specialist (or Global Payroll Specialist with project implementation experience) to lead multiple payroll-related initiatives. In this key role, you will lead the end-to-end execution of complex implementation projects, ensuring they are accurate, compliant, and delivered on time. This individual will partner closely with Global Payroll, HR, Finance, IT, and external vendors, playing a critical role in supporting and driving global payroll transformation. You’ll be working remotely, this role reports to the Director, Global Payroll.  

This role is open to remote-applicants in Canada and USA (in Provinces/States where we can hire legally), unless you are near a commuting distance from our Toronto or Vancouver offices. In which case, there would be a hybrid component.

The position is available for a fixed term from April 2026 to December 2026.

 WHAT YOU’LL DO: 

• Lead and support complex global payroll system implementations, upgrades, configurations, and post-go-live stabilization.
•  Manage end-to-end payroll vendor transitions, ensuring seamless integrations and data integrity.
• Provide expert validation of payroll system configurations, complex earnings/deductions, and specific statutory compliance rules.
• Oversee and execute rigorous testing cycles, including User Acceptance Testing (UAT), parallel testing, and go-live readiness assessments.
• Ensure full system alignment and strict adherence to global tax, benefits, and local statutory requirements.
• Track and manage project dependencies, critical risks, and key deliverables, providing regular status reporting and ensuring effective project governance and escalation.
• Serve as the primary liaison, coordinating cross-functional stakeholders (HR, IT, Finance) and external vendors to ensure project alignment and resource optimization.
• Establish project metrics to ensure initiatives remain on schedule, within defined scope, and meet business objectives.
• Act as the primary technical and process liaison for payroll vendors and internal system partners.
• Translate complex business and regulatory requirements into detailed technical specifications for system solutions.
• Collaborate deeply with HRIS, Finance, and Compliance teams to harmonize global processes and standardize implementation methodologies.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED: 

•  7+ years of experience focused specifically on global payroll processing or leading global payroll implementations.
•  Demonstrated experience in a large, complex, multi-regional global payroll environment.
•  Proven, direct experience managing multiple complex payroll implementation and     system upgrade projects simultaneously.
•  Formal project management certification and/or Global payroll certification, or equivalent experience with implementation methodologies is a plus.
•  Expert-level knowledge of diverse global tax codes, benefits integrations, and local statutory compliance rules (e.g., APAC, EMEA, LATAM).
• Deep proficiency in specialized payroll implementation and reporting software (e.g., Workday, ADP, Dayforce, Ceridian).
• Strong experience with data integration tools and detailed data migration mapping.
• Advanced skills in Excel and data analysis for validation, discrepancies detection, and corrective action recommendations.
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to bridge technical and business requirements.

WHO YOU ARE: 

• Solution seeker: You’re focused on tackling new challenges, solving problems, and moving the business forward-and you don’t wait to be asked. 
• Lifelong learner: You have a growth mindset – you’re here to learn, experiment, seek, apply, and provide feedback, share what works with your team, and move on from what doesn’t. 
• Resilient adapter: In the face of change and challenges, you bring a thoughtful, calm approach, and a focus on finding the new opportunity. 
• Intentional collaborator. You build positive working relationships across the business, bringing people together to foster new opportunities and to facilitate the efficient flow of information. 
• Critical challenger: You have the trust in your team to ask difficult questions in order to get to the best end result. 
• Active communicator: You listen actively and communicate ideas and information clearly, inclusively, and proactively. 
• Integrated thinker: You look beyond your role and responsibilities to understand how your team’s work drives broader organizational goals. 
• Accountable owner: You take pride in the work you’re responsible for with a mindset of ultimate accountability and reliability for the outcomes. 
• Bar-raiser: You step up to help your team grow and succeed, even when that means going beyond what might be expected.