Manager, Payroll & Benefits (18 Month Contract)

Nature & Scope: 

The Payroll & Benefits Manager (18 Month Contract) is a member of our Finance team, reporting directly to the Corporate Controller. This role requires someone who is able to handle a variety of responsibilities in a professional manner, working on multiple assignments with a high degree of autonomy over your work and producing high-quality deliverables. 

Key Accountabilities and Responsibilities:

• Responsible for the four payrolls – HO, Retail (CAD/US) and DC/LF (Distribution & Leather Factory).  Payroll cycles are both weekly and biweekly. This includes quick entries, transmission, submission and ensuring payroll is completed on time and with accuracy 
• Manage the payroll accounting requirements related to the general ledger financial reporting, interfaces and oversee the reconciliation of all payroll related accounts 
• Ensure the organization's compliance with ongoing, ad hoc and complex taxation issues, including the accurate assessment of taxable benefits, and year-end reporting for T4s and T4As
• Keep fully apprised of all legislative changes and policy changes impacting payroll, and ensure the leadership, employees, payroll staff and other key stakeholders are effectively informed in that regard.
• Working closely with both Benefit carriers (Sun Life and RBC) to ensure accurate benefit coverage and answering benefit questions of employees. 
• Support the efforts of the team in day-to-day payroll functions 
• Draft related correspondence including but not limited to Employment Verifications, Benefits Enrollment and changes & ROE’s 
• Provide support to the annual salary and bonus budgeting process 
• Responsible for all payroll activities including year-end, remittances, incentive programs, benefits enrollments & updates 
• Support process improvement initiatives 
• Establish and maintain relationships with 3rd party providers and ensure timely correspondence 
• Completing T4's, T4As, RLI, T2200, 1095 
• Provide high quality Employee service by ensuring timely resolution of Employee payroll, benefit and system inquiries 
• Upon hire of new employee and termination, establish that all relevant benefit information is handled 
• Support the Retail employees to advance their understanding and ensure adherence to Roots payroll administration processes 
• Liaise with auditors
• Build custom reports on request for various departments 
• Have an understanding on the structure of the company to be able to provide system-based solutions 

Demonstrated Interpersonal Skills:

• Open minded and approaches problems from different perspectives.
• Contributes positively to the team environment and respects differences in people, ideas, and opinions.
• Acts pro-actively with a willingness to go above and beyond to generate remarkable results.
• Committed to leaning and growth and demonstrates respect and honesty in all interactions.
• Passionate about the brand and takes pride in your work and contributions to the organization.
• Leads by example and inspires others through shared goals and visions.
• Sees the “big picture” and takes action to accomplish goals.
• Able to implement priorities and objectives, creating an environment where problem solving, teamwork and strong leadership results in continuous improvement.

Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum 5-years of managing a Canadian multi-province payroll department.
• PCP/CPM designation.
• Working knowledge of payroll software platforms like Ceridian Dayforce.
• Solid coaching, negotiating and influencing skills.
• Excellent problem solving / judgement skills, and high level of attention to detail and accuracy.
• Confidence and ability to work independently with little supervision in a fast-paced environment
• Working experience of payroll tax at the federal, state and local levels
• Excellent organization skills, ability to handle multiple priorities within deadlines is required
• Configuration of Dayforce time, attendance, org, benefits, payroll and HR Modules 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills 
• Proven strategic and analytical problem-solving skills with attention to details 
• Advanced computer skills including experience with Ceridian Dayforce & Microsoft Office, especially Excel  
• Knowledge and understanding of US benefits including ACA
• Strong customer service attitude along with the ability to build and maintain strong relationships both internally and externally