Global Payroll Manager - Canonical

About the Role

Canonical is seeking a Global Payroll Manager to build scalable systems, automate manual processes, and drive operational excellence. You will lead payroll operations for a high-growth, international, and remote-first technology company, reporting directly to the Global Financial Controller.

Key Responsibilities

• Operations: Manage end-to-end payroll across multiple countries, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance.
• Collaboration: Partner with HR, Accounting, Treasury, and FP&A to streamline payroll workflows.
• Compliance: Maintain strong internal controls, manage payroll audits, and monitor legislative/regulatory changes across jurisdictions.
• Analysis: Perform salary cost analyses and investigate variances.
• Strategy: Drive continuous improvement, implement best practices, and leverage emerging technology (including AI) to enhance reporting and efficiency.
• Leadership: Mentor and coach a team of global payroll professionals.
• Vendor Management: Maintain relationships with payroll providers to ensure service levels are met.

What We Are Looking For

• Undergraduate degree in Accounting or Finance (or equivalent experience).
• Significant experience in multi-country/global payroll operations.
• Strong knowledge of payroll compliance, taxation, and internal controls.
• Proficiency with payroll systems, HRIS platforms, and spreadsheet-based analysis.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to travel internationally twice a year for company events (up to two weeks).
• Alignment with Canonical values: Precise, Reliable, Accessible, and Adroit.

Nice-to-Have Skills

• Experience implementing or optimizing payroll platforms and HRIS.
• Payroll management in publicly traded or pre-IPO companies.
• Experience supporting rapid expansion and new country payroll launches.
• MBA or relevant business degree.

What We Offer

• Distributed work environment with twice-yearly in-person team sprints.
• 40 days annual leave (including public holidays).
• Personal learning and development budget of $2,000 USD per year.
• Bi-annual compensation reviews and performance-driven bonuses.
• Comprehensive wellness platform and team member assistance programs.