Applewood Auto Group - Payroll Operations Lead (Manager-In-Training)

Job Description

Job Description

Payroll Operations Lead (Manager-in-Training)

On-site | Langley, BC | Full-time

Applewood Auto Group is seeking a highly experienced Payroll Operations Lead to join our team as a critical successor to our Payroll Manager, who will be retiring at the end of 2027.

This is a rare opportunity for a senior payroll professional who thrives in a people-facing, service-driven environment and wants to grow into a Payroll Manager role while helping modernize and elevate payroll operations for a 600+ team member organization.

What You’ll Do

• Run and support full-cycle payroll for 300+ employees and 200+ contractors across multiple entities
• Act as a trusted payroll partner to leaders and team members—this role is highly visible and service-oriented
• Lead Payworks system optimization, configuration, reporting, and process improvements
• Oversee benefits administration, enrollments, changes, and vendor coordination
• Manage disability and leave administration (WCB, STD / LTD, medical leaves)
• Support payroll in a unionized environment (one dealership), including interpretation and compliance
• Work closely with HR and Accounting to ensure accuracy, compliance, and efficiency
• Gradually assume increased responsibility and leadership as part of a structured succession plan

What You Bring

Compensation

The starting annual salary range for this role is $70,000–$80,000 , depending on experience. Initial compensation will be determined based on qualifications, depth of experience, and demonstrated expertise in Payworks, benefits administration, and unionized payroll environments. This role is part of a planned succession strategy. Compensation may be adjusted over time to reflect expanded responsibilities, demonstrated performance, and progression toward the Payroll Manager role.

Ready to Build What's Next?

This role is not for everyone - and that's intentional.

At Applewood, Payroll is about more than numbers - it's about trust, care and supporting our people at every stage of their journey with us.

If you're someone who values relationships, accuracy, and long-term growth, we'd love to connect. Apply today and let's see if this role is the right next for you.