Payroll Analyst in Toronto

We are seeking an experienced Senior Payroll Accounting & Reporting Analyst to oversee payroll accounting activities, reconciliations, reporting, auditing, and process improvement initiatives within a large and complex organization. This role serves as a key liaison between Payroll, Finance, HR, and other business stakeholders to ensure the accuracy, integrity, and compliance of payroll financial data. The successful candidate will provide analytical support, lead payroll-related audits, supervise team members, and contribute to continuous improvement of payroll systems and processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Reconcile payroll-related general ledger accounts and investigate discrepancies.
• Perform root cause analysis and provide recommendations to resolve account variances.
• Prepare and analyze payroll reports on a weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual basis.
• Review payroll postings and ensure accuracy of payroll-related financial transactions.
• Support payroll processing through the preparation and delivery of payroll accounting data.
• Prepare journal entries and supporting documentation as required.
• Conduct aging analyses, trend reporting, and variance analysis.
• Develop and maintain reporting frameworks to support payroll operations and business decisions.
• Analyze payroll-related data and employee leave information to identify trends and areas for improvement.
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards, payroll legislation, and internal controls.

Audit & Compliance

• Lead and support payroll audit activities.
• Design, test, and implement audit reports and monitoring processes.
• Collaborate with Finance and external stakeholders during annual audits.
• Prepare documentation and provide support for internal and external reviews.
• Assist with payroll overpayment recovery analysis and related reporting.
• Interpret and communicate payroll accounting policies, controls, and statutory requirements.

Systems & Process Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve payroll reporting, controls, and operational processes.
• Participate in payroll system enhancements, testing, and implementation projects.
• Support integration of new payroll processes and reporting requirements.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, workflows, and reporting procedures.
• Research emerging payroll trends, best practices, and system capabilities.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Supervise and support designated payroll staff.
• Assist with employee onboarding, training, performance management, and workflow coordination.
• Work closely with Payroll, Finance, HR, and operational teams to ensure accurate payroll accounting practices.
• Provide guidance and expertise on payroll accounting, reporting, and compliance matters.
• Support initiatives that promote diversity, inclusion, and equitable workplace practices.

Qualifications

• University degree in Business Administration, Accounting, Finance, Human Resources, Information Systems, or a related discipline.
• Accounting Designation (CPA) preferred.
• Payroll Designation (PCP, PLP, or equivalent) preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of progressive payroll accounting, payroll reporting, or payroll audit experience within a large organization.
• Experience with payroll reconciliations, financial reporting, and internal controls.
• Demonstrated experience in payroll auditing, data analysis, and financial reporting.
• Prior supervisory or team leadership experience is considered an asset.

Technical Knowledge

• Strong knowledge of payroll accounting principles and practices.
• Understanding of payroll legislation, employment standards, tax requirements, and regulatory compliance.
• Experience working with HRIS, payroll, ERP, or financial systems.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience creating ad hoc reports, dashboards, and data analyses.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to interpret complex payroll and financial data.
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong organizational and project management abilities.
• Effective leadership and team development skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet competing deadlines.
• Strong relationship-building and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and evolving environment.

Work Environment

• Hybrid work environment with a combination of remote and in-office responsibilities.
• Occasional evening work may be required to support payroll deadlines, projects, or operational requirements.
• Role involves extensive use of payroll systems, reporting tools, and financial software.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• CPA and Payroll-certified with strong payroll accounting expertise.
• Experienced in payroll audits, reconciliations, and financial reporting.
• Comfortable working with large volumes of complex payroll data.
• Strong understanding of payroll compliance and internal controls.
• Proven leader who can drive process improvements and mentor team members.
• Highly analytical, detail-oriented, and committed to accuracy.