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Associate Director, HR Operations

Toronto, Canada

About WPP Media

WPP is the creative transformation company. We use the power of creativity to build better futures for our people, planet, clients, and communities. For more information, visit wpp.com

WPP Media is WPP’s global media collective. In a world where media is everywhere and in everything, we bring the best platforms, people, and partners together to create limitless opportunities for growth. For more information, visit wppmedia.com

At WPP Media, we believe in the power of our culture and our people. It’s what elevates us to deliver exceptional experiences for both our clients and each other. In this role, it will be critical to embrace WPP & WPP Media’s shared core values:

  • Be Extraordinary – Lead collectively to inspire transformational creativity.
  • Create an Open Environment – Balance people and client experiences by cultivating trust.
  • Lead Optimistically – Champion growth and development to mobilize the enterprise.

Role Summary & Impact

The Associate Director, HR Operations is responsible for overseeing and improving all HR operational processes within the organisation, ensuring a professional and responsive service to the business. This role delivers efficient and effective core People services, including payroll, benefits administration, HR information systems (ADP, Workday), employee data management, and compliance with employment regulations in Canada.

You will work closely with all departments to ensure a seamless employee experience, operational excellence, and adherence to People guidelines and legal requirements. This is a leadership role with five direct reports, requiring strategic oversight and hands-on operational expertise.

Key Responsibilities
  • Manage and continuously improve core People processes.
  • Oversee employee data management, ensuring accuracy, confidentiality, and compliance with data protection regulations.
  • Standardize and document People processes, aligning them with business needs.
  • Enhance the HR Operations delivery model through technology and process improvement.
  • Manage HRIS systems (ADP, Workday) to ensure accurate and timely HR transactions.
  • Collaborate with IT and regional teams to troubleshoot and implement system enhancements.
  • Administer employee benefits programs (health insurance, retirement plans, etc.).
  • Ensure compliance with local employment laws and internal People policies.
  • Monitor employment law changes in BC, ON, and QC, implementing necessary process adjustments.
  • Manage internal and external HR audits, including documentation and compliance reporting.
  • Generate reports, metrics, and dashboards to support business decisions.
  • Analyse data to identify trends, issues, and opportunities for operational efficiency.
  • Lead and develop the HR Operations team, fostering a collaborative culture.
  • Act as a key escalation point for People issues, resolving complex problems.
  • Provide operational support to managers and employees on People-related enquiries.

Qualifications & Experience

  • College or university degree.
  • Minimum 7+ years in People Operations, with at least 2 years in a managerial or supervisory role.
  • Proficiency with HRIS systems (Workday, SAP, ADP).
  • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
  • Strong knowledge of HR policies, labour laws, and regulatory compliance.
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • High attention to detail and strong organisational skills.
  • Calm, approachable leadership style.

Nice to have:

  • Change Management & Continuous Improvement experience.
  • Project Management skills.

Life at WPP Media & Benefits

Our passion for shaping the next era of media includes investing in our employees to help them do their best work. WPP Media employees can tap into the global WPP network to pursue their passions, grow their networks, and learn at the cutting edge of marketing and advertising.

We offer:

  • Competitive medical, vision, and dental insurance.
  • Group retirement plans.
  • Significant paid time off.
  • Preferential partner discounts.
  • Employee mental health awareness days.
  • Frequent in-office events to celebrate wins, share thought leadership, and mark milestones.

We believe the best work happens when we’re together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That’s why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week.

Diversity & Inclusion

WPP Media is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.

If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.

Privacy Notice: Please read our Privacy Policy for more information on how we process the information you provide.

Application Note: While we appreciate all applications received, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

 

Please read our Privacy Notice for more information on how we process the information you provide. 

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