Overview
Lead Variable Compensation Systems Analyst
Remote – US | Remote
About the RoleThe Lead Variable Compensation Systems Analyst is responsible for managing the systems, data, automation, and financial operations supporting variable compensation programs — including commissions, bonuses, and incentive plans. In this role, you'll serve as the technical authority for the enterprise incentive compensation platform, ensure accurate and timely calculations and payouts, and uphold the data integrity and controls required for financial reporting, internal audit, and regulatory compliance. You'll also provide technical guidance and mentorship to fellow analysts, helping elevate the team's overall capability.
Technology You'll Work With
- Xactly
- Power BI
- SQL
- Salesforce
Your Role Responsibilities? Here's What You'll Do.
- Manage administration of the enterprise incentive compensation platform, including plan configuration, security, data integrations, system releases, regression testing, reporting, and issue resolution.
- Develop and optimize end-to-end automation for variable compensation processes — from data intake and quota loading through calculations, approvals, payout files, and general ledger posting.
- Provide system and data support for variable compensation account reconciliations, including researching data discrepancies, troubleshooting issues, and assisting with questions.
- Manage calculation, system validation, approval, and reconciliation of commission, bonus, and incentive payouts in partnership with Finance, Sales Operations, Human Resources, Payroll, and Tax.
- Develop dashboards and recurring reporting covering attainment, plan cost, payout trends, exceptions, quota allocation, and other variable compensation performance measures.
- Mentor, coach, and provide feedback to team members while serving as a trusted advisor and thought leader on variable compensation best practices and industry trends.
Role Essentials
- 6–8 years of progressive experience in variable compensation administration, compensation systems administration, or a related finance function
- Hands-on experience administering an enterprise incentive compensation platform (Xactly preferred), including configuration, integrations, security, testing, and reporting
- Deep knowledge of sales compensation plan mechanics, including quotas, accelerators, draws, clawbacks, exceptions, and multi-currency payouts
- Experience supporting internal or external audits and operating within a SOX-controlled environment
- Strong knowledge of GAAP principles related to compensation, commissions, accruals, and general ledger reconciliation
What We'd Like to See
- Experience leading system implementations, integrations, or automation initiatives from requirements through delivery
- Proficiency in developing dashboards and leadership reporting using Power BI or similar tools
- Experience with SQL for compensation data analysis and operations
- Familiarity with Salesforce in the context of sales compensation and crediting workflows
- Demonstrated ability to mentor team members and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment