Drive your Career!
We love our cars, but it’s the people behind them who make them what they are. To market, sell, and service great cars, we need great people. That’s why at Volkswagen Group Canada, we are passionate about our cars and our brand and foster this same passion and drive in our people. We know that the right people in the right positions can do incredible things, and we love making that happen.
We are currently looking for a Global Assignment Specialist based out of St. Thomas, ON
The Global Assignment Specialist plays a critical role in managing and supporting the international relocation and assignment process for employees. This position is responsible for ensuring a seamless transition for employees relocating internationally, including managing the logistical, financial, and compliance aspects of global assignments. The specialist works closely with HR, legal, finance, and external vendors to deliver a comprehensive and efficient relocation experience.
Reporting to the Manager of People and Global Assignments, you will work closely with our PowerCo SE Headquarters in Germany and will primarily be responsible for the adherence to the Volkswagen Global Assignment process. This role will also take the lead on intra-company transfers and provide support for the visa and work permit needs for external candidates.
This is a flex hybrid model, requiring 2 days in the St. Thomas office. Flexibility required according to business needs. Has the potential to change as business needs change.
Assignment Planning And Coordination
- Facilitate and initiate the assignment process by working closely with respective home country Global Assignment teams in preparation of approvals, cost calculations and all necessary authorizations along with required travel coordination.
- Prepare assignment contracts (for expatriates) and local agreements (for inpatriates) using clear language to communicate expectations and ensure approval by appropriate parties.
- Coordinate with HR, finance, legal, and external vendors to ensure all aspects of the assignment are handled efficiently.
- Coordinate the necessary documentation with managers and employees to facilitate the application and processing of visa applications for all foreign assignees, accompanying family members, business travelers, intra-company transfers and external talent requiring visa assistance.
- Monitor the expiration of visas, manage, and coordinate the visa extension process for employees as required.
- Act as the main point of contact for our dedicated immigration support resources.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for employees and their families throughout the relocation process, addressing any concerns or issues.
Compliance And Documentation
- Ensure compliance with all relevant immigration, tax, and employment laws in both the home and host countries.
- Prepare and manage assignment agreements, relocation packages, and other necessary documentation.
- Maintain accurate records of all global assignments and ensure all data is kept confidential and up to date.
Vendor Management
- Partner with third-party vendors who provide services including house-hunting, shipping, intercultural and language training, immigration and other services associated with the relocation of assignees.
- Liaise with external service providers such as relocation companies, immigration consultants, and tax advisors.
- Coordinate language lessons, school enrollment and intercultural training for assignees.
- Support destination services provided to assignees with regards to housing, schooling, etc.
- Monitor services provided by vendors, internal team members and functional partners, noting recurring pain points and following up when required.
- Negotiate contracts and manage relationships with vendors to ensure cost-effective and high-quality service delivery.
Employee Support
- Review details of Global Assignment contracts with assignees to discuss frequently asked questions and critical information, anticipating needs and setting clear expectations.
- Provide pre-departure briefings and ongoing support to employees and their families throughout the assignment.
- Assist with logistical arrangements, including housing, transportation, schooling, and cultural orientation.
- Support employees in addressing any challenges they encounter during their assignment, ensuring a positive experience.
Financial Management
- Prepare and manage assignment budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and adherence to company policies.
- Coordinate the payroll process with VGCA Payroll and external Shadow Payroll vendor for assignment of policy-related benefits to assignees and work closely with home and host country payroll contacts to ensure a smooth delivery of compensation.
- Work with outside vendors to ensure that payments processed for the assignees are appropriately recorded for tax compliance, credited back the appropriate cost centres, and monitor the successful completion of tax returns.
- Support the delivery of tax organizers to assignees and facilitate meetings for assignees with tax consultants
- Coordinate with finance to manage payroll, tax equalization, and other financial aspects of the assignment.
- Assist with expense reporting and reimbursement processes related to the assignment.
Program Development And Improvement
- Contribute to the development and improvement of global assignment policies, processes, and tools.
- Stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and legal developments related to global assignments.
- Provide training and guidance to HR teams and other stakeholders on global mobility topics.
- Post-Secondary Education in Human Resources, Business, or equivalent relevant work experience
- 5+ years spent in a related relocation / mobility function, ideally within a global organization.
- Professional certification in Global Mobility (e.g., GMS, CRP) is a highly desirable asset.
- Familiarity with global compensation and benefits programs.
- In-depth, proven knowledge of Canadian immigration policies and processes, as well as global relocation best practices and associated tax considerations
- High level understanding of expat / inpat remuneration, benefits, assignment costs, taxation, payroll, and tax equalization concepts
- Ability to work effectively and efficiently in an environment of shifting priorities, timelines and occasional ambiguity.
- A global mindset, with a customer driven approach and ability to build trust and relationships.
- Occasional travel to Ajax, ON as needed during ramp-up.
- Occasional international travel to HQ in Germany (total travel up to ~20%)
- Overtime may be required to meet ramp-up deadlines.
- German language skills are considered an asset
What You’ll Get In Return
- A flexible and collaborative team dynamic
- Opportunities for development
- Opportunities to participate in exciting company events that give back to the community.
- Competitive employer paid benefits and overall compensation package
- And much more!
- Please note that we appreciate the interest of all candidates, however only those under consideration will be contacted.
Volkswagen Group Canada Inc. is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, family status, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, or local laws.
Volkswagen Group Canada Inc. is committed to providing accommodations for people with disabilities including during the application process. If you require an accommodation because of a disability, we will work with you to determine what reasonable accommodation may be available to meet your needs whether it be as an applicant or an employee. Applicants need to make their needs known in advance. If you are selected for an interview and require an accommodation, you are encouraged to advise the Recruiter who will consult with you to determine an appropriate and reasonable accommodation.
