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Payroll Specialist

Company Description

Join the team redefining how the world experiences design.

Hey, g'day, mabuhay, kia ora, 你好, hallo, vítejte!

Thanks for stopping by. We know job hunting can be a little time consuming and you're probably keen to find out what's on offer, so we'll get straight to the point.

Where and how you can work

Our flagship campus in Sydney offers amazing coffee and good vibes! We also have a campus in Collingwood, Melbourne and co-working spaces in Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide. But you have choice in where and how you work, we trust our Canvanauts to choose the balance that empowers them and their team to achieve their goals.

About the team

At Canva, we’re on a mission to empower everyone to design anything, anywhere. Behind the scenes, our Payroll team plays a crucial role in ensuring our Canvanauts are supported and paid accurately and on time.

Part of the Finance and Legal group, our payroll function spans across APAC, EMEA, and the Americas, navigating the complexities of rapid global expansion. We’re more than processors—we’re trusted advisors involved in cross-functional projects, compliance, and process innovation.

This 12-month fixed-term contract opportunity is perfect for a payroll expert looking to make an impact in a fast-paced, people-first environment while being part of Canva’s exciting growth story.

What you’d be doing in this role

In this 12-month fixed term contract role, you’ll own the end-to-end payroll processes for selected APAC countries, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timeliness. The APAC countries may include one or multiple of these countries : Australia, New Zealand, Philippines, China, Japan, South Korea & Singapore. While 85% of your focus will be on end-to-end payroll, there’s also room to innovate and collaborate on transformative projects.

Here’s what your days might look like:

  • Taking ownership of end to end payroll processing for selected APAC countries, ensuring compliance with local tax laws, labor regulations, and company policies.
  • Managing compliance filings with government agencies and ensure accurate reporting of taxes, contributions, and benefits.
  • Identifying opportunities to streamline and automate payroll processes, enhancing efficiency and accuracy across manual and automated workflows.
  • Collaborating with teams like People Ops, Legal, and Finance teams to communicate and implement payroll-related changes, policies, and procedures.
  • Serving as the go-to resource and subject matter expert for all APAC payroll-related matters, including future payroll or Employer of Record (EOR) expansions within the region.
  • Supporting the implementation of various team’s initiatives and cross-functional projects.

You're probably a match if you

  • Have a proven track record of managing end-to-end payroll processing, reporting and compliance for multiple countries.
  • Are tech-savvy with strong Excel/Google Sheets skills, and an ability to manage large datasets with precision. Experience in Workday or ADP a plus.
  • Possess in-depth knowledge of payroll laws, tax regulations, and compliance requirements across APAC.
  • Are a collaborator with exceptional communication skills with a knack for async communication tools across time zones.
  • Are a problem solver and a detail-oriented who can navigate ambiguity and competing priorities with grace.
  • You handle sensitive data with the utmost care and professionalism.

What's in it for you?

Achieving our crazy big goals motivates us to work hard - and we do - but you'll experience lots of moments of magic, connectivity and fun woven throughout life at Canva, too. We also offer a range of benefits to set you up for every success in and outside of work.

Check out lifeatcanva.com for more info.

Other stuff to know

We make hiring decisions based on your experience, skills and passion, as well as how you can enhance Canva and our culture. When you apply, please tell us the pronouns you use and any reasonable adjustments you may need during the interview process.

We celebrate all types of skills and backgrounds at Canva so even if you don’t feel like your skills quite match what’s listed above - we still want to hear from you!

Please note that interviews are conducted virtually.

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Average salary estimate

$80000 / YEARLY (est.)
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$70000K
$90000K

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What You Should Know About Payroll Specialist, Canva

As a Payroll Specialist at Canva in Melbourne, VIC, you will play a vital role in ensuring that our Canvanauts are compensated accurately and punctually. This is a fabulous opportunity for someone with expertise in payroll processing, who is ready to embrace the lovely challenge of a fast-paced, diverse environment. You'll take ownership of end-to-end payroll processes for various APAC countries, which could include Australia, New Zealand, and others, navigating the complexities of local tax laws and labor regulations. Imagine having the autonomy to innovate while still performing day-to-day payroll tasks. You will work alongside dynamic teams, including People Ops and Finance, contributing to cross-functional projects. Think of it as being part of a supportive community where you’re not just crunching numbers but are seen as a trusted advisor helping to shape payroll policies and procedures. Your days will involve ensuring compliance with various regulations, identifying opportunities for efficiency in payroll operations, and serving as a subject matter expert. This 12-month fixed-term contract is perfect if you are detail-oriented, enjoy problem-solving, and want to contribute to Canva’s exciting growth story. We're all about work-life balance, so whether you prefer working from our Melbourne campus or remotely, the choice is yours. If you’re passionate about payroll and want to make a real impact, we’d love to have you on our team!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Payroll Specialist Role at Canva
What are the responsibilities of a Payroll Specialist at Canva?

As a Payroll Specialist at Canva, you'll manage the complete payroll process for selected APAC countries, ensuring accuracy and compliance with local laws. Your responsibilities will include processing payroll, managing compliance filings with government agencies, and collaborating with teams on payroll-related changes. You will also identify opportunities to automate and streamline payroll processes to enhance efficiency.

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What qualifications do you need to become a Payroll Specialist at Canva?

To become a Payroll Specialist at Canva, you should have a proven track record in managing end-to-end payroll processing and compliance for multiple countries. In-depth knowledge of payroll laws and taxes across APAC is essential, along with strong Excel or Google Sheets skills. Experience with payroll systems like Workday or ADP and excellent communication skills are also important.

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What type of projects will a Payroll Specialist at Canva be involved in?

As a Payroll Specialist at Canva, you will be involved in transformative projects that aim to innovate payroll processing. You’ll work on initiatives that enhance efficiency and accuracy in payroll operations, collaborating closely with teams like People Ops, Legal, and Finance to implement necessary changes. This role allows for impactful input into the payroll structure as we expand across APAC countries.

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What is the work environment like for a Payroll Specialist at Canva?

The work environment for a Payroll Specialist at Canva is vibrant and supportive. You’ll work as part of a collaborative team focused on achieving common goals while fostering innovation and process improvement. Canva emphasizes a flexible work culture, allowing you to choose where and how to work, be it on-site at the Melbourne campus or remotely.

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What benefits does Canva offer to its Payroll Specialists?

Canva offers a range of benefits to its Payroll Specialists that not only support your professional goals but also promote well-being outside of work. This includes flexible working conditions, professional development opportunities, and a supportive community that values diverse skills and backgrounds.

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Common Interview Questions for Payroll Specialist
How do you ensure compliance in payroll processing?

To ensure compliance in payroll processing, I stay updated on local tax laws and labor regulations for each relevant region. I also maintain close communication with compliance and legal teams, routinely conduct audits, and utilize payroll systems to ensure all filings and payments are timely and accurate.

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Describe your experience with payroll software.

I have extensive experience using payroll software such as Workday and ADP, allowing me to efficiently manage large datasets and streamline payroll processes. I am comfortable navigating payroll functions and providing insights based on software capabilities to enhance operational efficiency.

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Can you provide an example of a project you've worked on to improve payroll processes?

Yes, in my previous role, I led a project that involved automating portions of the payroll process. By implementing new software tools and enhancing existing workflows, we reduced processing times by 30% while improving accuracy and compliance, which ultimately enhanced team efficiency.

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How do you handle discrepancies in payroll?

When handling discrepancies in payroll, I take a structured approach: investigate the issue by reviewing records, collaborate with the affected employee to gather additional information, and verify with the finance team as needed. I ensure timely communication throughout the process to keep all parties informed and work towards an appropriate resolution.

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What challenges have you faced in payroll processing and how did you overcome them?

One challenge I've encountered is navigating frequent changes in labor regulations. I overcame this by establishing a routine for continuing education, involving regulatory agencies, and utilizing proactive software alerts, allowing me to adapt quickly and ensure ongoing compliance.

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Why is attention to detail important for a Payroll Specialist?

Attention to detail is critical for a Payroll Specialist because even minor errors in payroll calculations can lead to significant issues, including compliance violations and employee dissatisfaction. By meticulously reviewing calculations and processes, I ensure that all data is accurate, enhancing trustworthiness in payroll systems.

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How do you manage deadlines in payroll processing?

I manage deadlines in payroll processing through effective time management and planning. I create a calendar of all milestone deadlines, prioritize tasks, and communicate consistently with team members to ensure everyone stays aligned and on track, avoiding last-minute rushes.

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What role does communication play in payroll processing?

Communication is essential in payroll processing, as it ensures everyone involved is informed about policies, deadlines, and changes. I believe in maintaining open channels through regular updates, training sessions, and using collaboration tools to foster a well-informed team dynamic.

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How do you adapt to changes in payroll legislation?

To adapt to changes in payroll legislation, I stay informed through industry news, webinars, and training sessions. Additionally, I maintain strong relationships with legal advisors and payroll networks that provide insights and updates, ensuring our processes evolve in accordance with the latest regulations.

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What makes you passionate about working as a Payroll Specialist?

I am passionate about working as a Payroll Specialist because I enjoy bringing precision and innovation to a crucial function. I find fulfillment in ensuring employees are paid accurately and on time, contributing to their overall satisfaction while also playing a pivotal role in the organization’s operational success.

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Canva is revolutionizing the design process around the world. The company provides a user-friendly online platform that enables anyone to produce stunning, professional designs - granting them easy access to the realm of visual communication.

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BADGES
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CULTURE VALUES
Inclusive & Diverse
Diversity of Opinions
Passion for Exploration
Dare to be Different
Empathetic
Growth & Learning
BENEFITS & PERKS
Paid Holidays
Medical Insurance
Equity
401K Matching
Learning & Development
Social Gatherings
Flex-Friendly
Maternity Leave
Paternity Leave
Sabbatical
DEPARTMENTS
SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
TEAM SIZE
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, hybrid
DATE POSTED
January 14, 2025

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