Associate Director, Reward and Recognition

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Join EY and help to build a better working world.

The opportunity

A key member of the EY Talent Team, the Associate Director, Reward and Recognition will lead the compensation and recognition function for EY Canada, partnering closely with the Director, Total Rewards to develop, implement, and oversee reward and recognition strategies and programs that support the firm's talent and business objectives. You will provide leadership for compensation initiatives, including base pay, incentive programs, job evaluation, pay equity, market benchmarking, and annual compensation planning, as well as leading the EY’s recognition program.

As a trusted advisor to Talent leaders, Service Line leadership, and business stakeholders, you will leverage data-driven insights to ensure compensation programs remain competitive, equitable, and aligned with business priorities. You will also lead a team of compensation professionals and play a critical role in driving continuous improvement, governance, and operational excellence across compensation processes.

This role reports directly to the Director, Total Rewards.

Key Responsibilities

Compensation Strategy and Program Leadership

• Lead the development, implementation, and administration of compensation programs across the firm, including base salary, incentive plans, and special compensation initiatives.
• Partner with the Director, Total Rewards to execute the firm's compensation strategy and provide recommendations on emerging market trends and business needs.
• Conduct market research, benchmarking, and compensation analysis to ensure programs remain competitive and aligned with business objectives.
• Develop recommendations for compensation structures, salary ranges, incentive plan design, and compensation policy enhancements.
• Serve as the compensation subject matter expert for Talent leadership, Service Line leaders, and other key stakeholders.

Annual Compensation Planning

• Lead the annual compensation review process, including planning, governance, system administration, analysis, calibration support, and executive reporting.
• Develop compensation recommendations and supporting materials for Talent and business leadership discussions.
• Provide modelling, forecasting, and scenario analysis to support compensation decision-making.
• Ensure compensation decisions are supported by robust analytics, market data, and internal equity considerations.

Pay Equity and Governance

• Lead the firm's pay equity and compensation compliance activities, ensuring alignment with applicable legislation and regulatory requirements.
• Identify and proactively address compensation risks and opportunities through data analysis and monitoring.
• Ensure sound controls, documentation, and governance practices are maintained across all compensation programs.

Team Leadership

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of compensation professionals.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Provide guidance and technical expertise on complex compensation matters.
• Allocate team resources and priorities to support business and operational requirements.

Stakeholder Partnership

• Build strong relationships with Service Line Talent teams and business leaders to understand evolving workforce and talent needs.
• Present compensation recommendations, analysis, and insights to senior stakeholders.
• Collaborate with Global and Americas Total Rewards teams to align Canadian programs with broader EY strategies while addressing local requirements.
• Partner with HRIS and technology teams to enhance compensation processes and system capabilities.

Process Improvement and Technology

• Lead compensation technology initiatives, including optimization of the SuccessFactors Compensation Module and related tools.
• Drive automation, simplification, and standardization of compensation processes.
• Develop dashboards and reporting solutions that provide meaningful insights to support business decisions.
• Implement best practices that improve efficiency, data quality, and stakeholder experience.

Skills and Attributes for Success

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Finance, Economics, or a related discipline.
• CCP (Certified Compensation Professional) designation or equivalent certification preferred.
• 8–10 years of progressive experience in compensation, rewards, or total rewards.
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing compensation professionals and complex compensation programs.
• Advanced knowledge of compensation design, salary administration, incentive programs, pay equity, and market benchmarking.
• Strong understanding of Canadian compensation legislation and regulatory requirements.
• Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to interpret large data sets and translate findings into actionable recommendations.
• Experience with compensation technology platforms, including SuccessFactors Compensation.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel, data modelling, and reporting tools.
• Strong communication and presentation skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all organizational levels.
• Proven ability to balance strategic thinking with operational execution.
• Experience in a professional services or consulting environment is an asset.

What we offer

At EY, our Total Rewards package supports our commitment to creating a leading people culture built on high-performance teaming, where everyone can achieve their potential and contribute to building a better working world for our people, our clients and our communities. We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. Our Total Rewards package includes comprehensive medical, prescription drug and dental coverage, a defined contribution pension plan, a vacation policy, firm-paid days, statutory holidays and paid personal days based on province of residence, and a range of programs and benefits designed to support your physical, financial and social well-being. Plus, we offer:

• Support, coaching and feedback from engaging colleagues
• Opportunities to develop new skills and progress your career
• The freedom and flexibility to handle your role in a way that's right for you

Inclusiveness at EY

Inclusiveness is at the heart of who we are and how we work. We’re committed to fostering an environment where differences are valued, policies and practices are equitable, and our people feel a sense of belonging. We embrace diversity and are committed to combating systemic racism, advancing gender equity and women in leadership, advocating for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, promoting our neuroinclusion and accessibility initiatives, and are dedicated to amplifying the voices of Indigenous peoples (First Nations, Inuit, and Métis) nationally as we strive towards reconciliation. Our diverse experiences, abilities, backgrounds, and perspectives make our people unique and help guide us. Because when people feel free to be their authentic selves at work, they bring their best and are empowered to build a better working world.

Learn about our commitment to Inclusiveness at https://www.ey.com/en_ca/about-us/corporate-responsibility/equity

EY | Building a better working world

EY is building a better working world by creating new value for clients, people, society and the planet, while building trust in capital markets.

Enabled by data, AI and advanced technology, EY teams help clients shape the future with confidence and develop answers for the most pressing issues of today and tomorrow.

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