Manager, Payroll & Benefits

Who We Are :

Aird & Berlis LLP is a prominent Canadian business law firm located in the heart of Toronto’s financial district, across from Union Station.

With over lawyers, business advisors and patent agents, we serve clients across Canada and globally.

What We Believe In :

The firm is committed to ensuring that all members of the Aird & Berlis LLP community feel valued, respected and supported.

We are a dedicated group of diverse individuals who care about each other, the work we produce and the client service we provide.

We go to great lengths to foster a professional, supportive environment for all firm members so you can focus on the important things : client service, your career and your life.

What We Are Looking For :

Aird & Berlis LLP is looking for a Manager, Payroll and Benefits to provide leadership and guidance to the payroll team.

The Manager, Payroll and Benefits will be responsible for overseeing all functions and deliverables associated with processing payroll and benefits, ensuring compliance with applicable legislation, organization’s policies and industry standards.

This person is responsible for the continuous improvement of payroll processes and procedures and is expected to work collaboratively with Finance and Human Resources’ departments to ensure smooth workflows and great service to executives, directors, managers and employees.

This position is best suited for someone very detail oriented, who can adapt to the changing demands of the job, as well as supervise and mentor the members of the Payroll and Benefits team.

Responsibilities : Payroll Operations

Payroll Operations

• Oversees, prepares and administers semi-monthly payroll for approximately employees using UKG Pay / HR software.
• Stay updated on changes in payroll-related legislation and implement necessary adjustments to payroll processes, policies, and systems to maintain compliance.
• Define payroll and audit standards and procedures, train and manage team performance, and oversee staffing decisions, ensuring team productivity aligns with department goals.
• Perform audits on data and updates in UKG, including, but not limited to, new hire, direct deposit, salary and benefit changes, garnishments processing, tax forms and terminations setups.
• Prepares monthly reconciliation of remittances and filing to all Government agencies.
• Performs all payroll related accounting procedures, including GL Payroll account reconciliations and journal entries.
• Conduct year-end payroll reconciliation to ensure all payroll transactions are accurately recorded and accounted for, including salaries, taxes, benefits deductions, and other payroll-related expenses.
• Timely preparation and distribution of year-end employee tax slips and forms.
• Supports Executives and Directors in annual salary review process.
• Responsible for the preparation of annual payroll budget.
• Maintain detailed records and documentation for audit purposes in accordance with statutory requirements.
• Provide support to all areas of the firm for any payroll related questions / inquiries.
• Identify process improvement opportunities and lead the implementation of new payroll processes and / or systems.

Benefits Administration

• Oversees and administers employee programs such as life, group health and dental benefits, AD&D, Short and Long Term disability, Fitness, RRSPs.
• Assists senior executives and / or Director of HR in preparations to meet with Insurance Brokers / Providers for annual benefits plan renewals and / or changes.
• Acts as Liaison between employees and health, dental, life, AD&D, disability and retirement providers regarding questions on enrolment, termination, the status of claims and plan design.
• Coordinates and process online enrolment for new employees, including distribution of materials, arrangement of onsite provider representation when required and updating of plan documents.
• Communicates and assists employees with enrollment, changes and routine questions regarding all benefit programs.
• Assists active employees and retirees with health, dental, vision, AD&D , life, short and long term disability and optional life insurance enrolment, claims filing and claims issues.
• Communicates with terminated employees the benefit conversion options and processes required paperwork. Processes necessary paperwork for the families of deceased employees.
• Reviews health plan invoices for accuracy. Resolves discrepancies and administrative issues relating to incorrect billing with carriers.
• Provides updates to benefit providers.
• Manages relationships with all external benefit providers, brokers, and other agents.
• Reconciles benefits related accounts and verification of year-end reports.
• Produce the highest quality of work
• Accountable for all work assigned
• Takes initiative
• Confidential

Personnel Management

Responsible for training, management, and performance reviews for payroll and benefits personnel

Requirements :

• Post-secondary and / or professional training in Business, Payroll, Human Resources or related field;
• Minimum 5 years’ payroll experience;
• Minimum 2 years management or supervisory experience;
• Payroll Compliance Practitioner (PCP) or Payroll Leadership Professional (PLP) designation;
• Sound knowledge of legislation relevant to employment practices and payroll administration;
• Proficient with MS Office applications, with advanced knowledge in Excel;
• Working knowledge of UKG Pay / HR software preferred;
• Law firm experience preferred or professional industry experience;
• Handle time pressure situations and stress of multiple demands

Skills :

• Microsoft suite of applications
• Excellent communications skills, verbal and written and must respond appropriately in pressure situations with a calm and steady demeanor
• Ability to work with and identify confidential information;
• Professional attitude and ability to manage multiple priorities in a demanding, fast-paced environment
• Can work independently and as part of team
• Ability to problem solve
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Organized
• Detailed

Why You Should Apply :

• Opportunities for growth and on the job training and development
• Competitive compensation and benefits package
• We pride ourselves on being a mid-sized firm with a family feel
• Active involvement in our community with opportunities to volunteer
• Mentor program
• Wellness programs

Please note that we have suspended our vaccination policy at this time

Any offer of employment will be conditional upon a criminal background check.