From Automation to Intelligence: How AI Is Transforming Payroll Technology and Operations

Artificial intelligence is moving rapidly from concept to reality in payroll. It is changing how payroll teams work, how platforms are designed, and how organizations manage accuracy, compliance, risk and scale.

This interactive panel brings together leaders from payroll technology, payroll operations and the broader AI landscape to explore how AI is being used today across the payroll lifecycle. From intelligent automation and anomaly detection to AI-powered analytics, chatbots and decision support, panelists will separate practical applications from emerging trends and highlight what payroll professionals should watch for next.

Whether selecting payroll technology, leading payroll operations, advising on compliance, or trying to cut through the AI noise, this session will provide the clarity, context and practical takeaways you need to approach AI with confidence.

Host and Facilitator
Steven Van Alstine, PLP, CAE
Vice-President, Professional Standards and Education, National Payroll Institute

Steven Van Alstine is the Vice-President, Professional Standards and Education at the National Payroll Institute and is widely recognized as one of Canada’s leading experts in payroll legislation, education and professional development.

In his current role, Steven provides strategic leadership for the Institute’s Professional Accreditation and Standards, and Learning and Professional Development teams. He also leads Payroll Standards Canada and its Advisory Council, helping to shape the future of payroll standards and practice across the country.

With more than 29 years at the Institute, Steven plays a pivotal role in advancing the payroll profession. He led high-impact initiatives that transformed professional education, including the evolution of the Institute’s payroll designation programs and the delivery of learning through modern, integrated platforms spanning in-person, virtual and online environments. His work helped ensure payroll professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills required in an increasingly complex legislative and technological landscape.

Steven’s contributions extend beyond education. He is instrumental in leading national advocacy and government relations efforts, supporting research that informs program development and contributing to governance enhancements that strengthen the profession. His ability to bridge policy, practice and education has made him a trusted voice within the payroll community.

Panelist
Keegan Castrillo, BBA, BSc
Partner, Deloitte

With over 12 years of experience leading cloud HR transformations, Keegan Castrillo is a Partner in Deloitte Consulting’s HR Transformation practice. She is recognized for guiding complex, enterprise-scale programs connecting HR, IT, finance and payroll—helping organizations modernize ways of working, strengthen governance and deliver measurable outcomes.

Keegan currently leads Deloitte Canada’s Payroll Advisory practice, supporting companies seeking to build future-forward payroll functions. Across enterprise engagements in financial services, consumer and industrial sectors and global telecommunications, she has overseen SuccessFactors and SAP-enabled transformations spanning Employee Central, recruiting and onboarding, integrations, data conversion, testing cycles and cutover planning. Earlier in her career at IBM Canada, she delivered HR cloud solutions end-to-end—from proposal through go-live—while mentoring junior team members and developing training and knowledge-transfer materials.

With a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Wilfrid Laurier University, Keegan blends business acumen with technical depth. She is known for taking on the most challenging programs and mobilizing teams to work efficiently toward shared milestones and a high-quality client experience.

Panelist
Amanda Valliere, PCP
Banyan Software

Amanda is an accomplished total rewards and HR technology leader with 20 years of experience in payroll, benefits, expatriate taxation, global mobility and HRIS. She has proven expertise in designing and implementing total rewards strategies that align with corporate objectives and regulatory requirements. Her background includes the management of payrolls in nine different countries across North and South America, the U.K., Europe and Asia.

She is also recognized for driving data-informed decision-making, leading high-performing teams and aligning rewards programs with business goals. She is a member of the Federal Government Relations Committee with the National Payroll Institute, influencing payroll legislation across Canada.

Panelist
Tanner Arnold, BBM
Principal Compliance Manager, Intuit Software

Tanner Arnold is a Principal Compliance Manager at Intuit, where he supports regulatory compliance for QuickBooks Workforce Payroll, covering both the Canadian and U.S. markets. With more than 25 years of experience, he brings deep expertise in payroll operations, accounting and customer experience design.

Tanner holds a bachelor’s degree in business management, a certificate in human resources management, and is currently working towards a master’s degree in accounting.

When he's not working, you'll likely find him planning his next trip. Mexico is a regular favorite and Europe whenever the timing works out.

How to access your session:
One to three business days prior to the live event, you will be sent information on how to access your webinar. If you do not receive the login information within this timeframe, please check your email SPAM folder. If it's not there, please contact membership@payroll.ca as soon as possible.