Team Lead People Operations

At AFSC, we care about each other, about Alberta and about agriculture. PEOPLE ARE OUR FOUNDATION. We want to work with talented people from a wide range of backgrounds. We strive to create a psychologically safe environment where we can all be ourselves and perform to the best of our abilities. CLIENTS ARE OUR FOCUS. The perseverance and hard work we see from our clients inspires us to show that same work ethic in everything that we do. EXCELLENCE IS OUR ASPIRATION. We are innovative, knowledgeable, and diverse and love what Albertan agriculture produces for people around the world. Working together, we grow and sustain the agriculture industry in Alberta.
The position is open until filled.
Location is flexible, within Alberta, dependent on the successful applicant however the person must be able to travel to our Lacombe central office at least 2days per week.
The Leader, People Operations is responsible for overseeing the efficient execution of tactical and operational people-related functions within the organization. Reporting to the VP, People Services, this role ensures the seamless delivery of administrative processes such as payroll, benefits administration, and team member services, while maintaining compliance with organizational policies and optimizing the Human Capital Management (HCM) system. With a focus on operational excellence, the Leader, People Operations supports a consistent and effective employee experience, enabling the organization to focus on strategic growth and business objectives. This role plays a critical part in fostering a well-managed, compliant, and responsive people service environment that underpins the overall success of the Talent and Development function.
What will your growth opportunities look like in this role?
- Lead and develop a collaborative team, focused on operational excellence and delivering consistent people services.
- Drive innovation by optimizing the Human Capital Management (HCM) system and enhancing processes to improve team member experience.
- Play a key role in supporting the organization’s strategic goals by ensuring the smooth execution of payroll, benefits administration, and team member services.
- Develop leadership and strategic planning skills while contributing to the success of the Talent and Development function.
- Champion continuous improvement initiatives, building efficiencies and maintaining compliance across all people-related operations.

What will you be responsible for?
- Overseeing the efficient execution of tactical and operational people-related functions, including payroll, benefits administration, and compliance.
- Managing the optimization of the HCM system to deliver streamlined processes and a consistent team member experience.
- Ensuring compliance with organizational policies and provincial employment standards to mitigate risk and protect the organization’s reputation.
- Leading operational excellence initiatives to drive continuous improvement and innovation in people services.
- Building and maintaining strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders to align services with business objectives.
- Coaching and developing a team of professionals, fostering a culture of collaboration and accountability.

What are we looking for from you?
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong leadership and coaching abilities to support and inspire a team focused on operational excellence.
- Expertise in payroll operations, benefits administration, compliance, and HCM system optimization (e.g., Dayforce).
- Analytical skills to interpret people data, develop insights, and drive improvements.
- A proactive approach to managing competing priorities while ensuring the seamless execution of people-related processes.
- Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills to align services with organizational goals.
- Knowledge of compliance standards related to payroll, benefits, and employment standards in Alberta.
- A solutions-oriented mindset with experience in driving process improvements and operational efficiencies.

Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree or Diploma in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
- CPHR certification (or similar) or Certified Payroll Practitioner (preferred).
- 3+ years of leadership experience managing people operations or payroll teams.
- 7+ years of experience in operational people services, including payroll, benefits, compliance, and HCM systems.
- Proven track record in optimizing processes, improving operational efficiency, and maintaining compliance.

What else is in it for you?
- Health, dental, and vision benefits on your first day of employment
- Health spending account
- Corporate functions
- Christmas closure
- PSPP contributions
- Generous vacation and special leave days
- Health and wellness initiatives

About AFSC
For over 80 years Agriculture Financial Services (AFSC) has provided Alberta's agricultural producers and agribusinesses with loans,