Payroll Lead (Americas & EMEA)

TL;DR

Payroll Lead (Americas & EMEA): Leading and shaping payroll operations across the Americas and EMEA regions with an accent on compliance, process transformation, and global expansion. Focus on leveraging AI and automation to build a scalable, world-class payroll function while partnering with cross-functional teams to support hyper-growth.

Location: Must be based in the US (San Francisco hub available, remote flexibility offered).

Compensation: $169,000 - $250,000 yearly.

Company

Canva is a global design platform redefining how the world experiences design through innovation and hyper-growth.

What you will do

• Lead and develop a high-performing payroll team across the Americas and EMEA.
• Own end-to-end payroll processing, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timeliness.
• Partner with Finance, People, Legal, and Systems teams to support global expansion and entity setups.
• Champion the use of AI and automation to streamline payroll processes and improve operational efficiency.
• Establish robust payroll controls, governance frameworks, and audit-ready processes.
• Manage relationships with external payroll providers, EOR partners, and tax authorities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, or related field.
• 8+ years of payroll experience managing complex, multi-country operations in Americas and EMEA.
• Strong knowledge of payroll regulations, tax laws, and employment compliance across multiple jurisdictions.
• Experience leading payroll transformation, automation, and system implementations.
• Proficiency with payroll and HRIS platforms like Workday, Paylocity, or ADP.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.

Nice to have

• CPP, GPMI, or CIPP certification.
• Experience with large-scale data reporting and dashboard development.

Culture & Benefits

• Equity packages for all employees.
• Comprehensive health benefits plans.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution.
• Inclusive parental leave policy.
• Annual Vibe & Thrive allowance for wellbeing and office setup.
• Flexible leave options to support work-life balance.