Job Description for Senior Associate/ Associate Manager Payroll Research

Do you understand end-to-end payroll processes and how emerging technologies are transforming these processes? Are you experienced in primary and secondary research methods? We are seeking an individual to play a pivotal role in our Payroll practice, supporting the development of thought leadership and the creation of research content.

At The Hackett Group®, we offer opportunities to learn, connect, and collaborate with professionals worldwide, helping them achieve new performance and competitive advantages. As a Payroll research professional, you will partner with The Hackett Group’s Payroll advisors, clients, and global stakeholders across industries to understand key trends, issues, and challenges in establishing world-class performance. You will be a member of The Hackett Group’s research team, which covers G&A; functions (finance, HR, IT, and procurement), GBS, and end-to-end process programs (payroll). You will work closely with advisors in the functional advisory practice and your colleagues on the research team.

Responsibilities:

- Develop fresh perspectives on critical business and technology issues affecting Payroll processes, including the impact of emerging technologies like Generative AI.
- Contribute to the advancement and quality of Payroll research and thought leadership initiatives.
- Lead and support the creation of Payroll research deliverables, including quantitative studies, benchmark data analysis, in-depth research reports, case studies, thought leadership articles, and client presentations.
- Shape and execute quantitative and qualitative Payroll research projects.
- Edit, analyze,



and synthesize data.
- Review and critique drafts to meet quality standards.
- Assist in developing Payroll research reports.
- Collaborate with internal eminence producers to align campaign-related efforts and cultivate relationships with interested practitioners.
- Develop Payroll research solutions, frameworks, and methods to address specific project needs.
- Identify Payroll trends by tracking news articles, vendor announcements, and analyzing investment and market data.
- Deliver content for internal and external use on social channels, webcasts, podcasts, and other media.

Qualifications:

- 7+ years of experience in business research, analysis, advisory or consulting roles.
- In-depth understanding of any one of the following end-to-end processes (Payroll):
- Payroll processes such as payroll administration, time and attendance, and leave administration

- Master’s Degree (MBA/CFA/CA).
- Passion for creating high-quality content and transforming an enterprise’s payroll process programs through compelling thought leadership and research.
- Exposure to the impact of digital technology (e.g., cloud, AI, analytics) on payroll within enterprises.
- Strong writing skills with the ability to convey complex research ideas in a compelling and accessible manner.




- Proven track record of delivering research/consulting services in payroll functions to Fortune 2000 clients.
- Capability to develop new frameworks and models across a broad array of Payroll topics.
- Exceptional oral and written communication skills, including presentation skills.
- Proficiency with MS Office products, especially Excel and PowerPoint.

Skills:

- Experience in primary research methods such as surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions.
- Ability to perform rigorous secondary research
- Familiarity with generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Microsoft Copilot, etc.
- Experience using survey design and statistical tools such as Qualtrics, SAS, and SPSS.
- Understanding and exposure to visualization tools such as Power BI and Tableau.
- Broad knowledge of social media platforms (e.g., X, LinkedIn, YouTube).
- Effective interpersonal and communication skills.
- Project management skills for complex research assignments.
- Self-driven and motivated; strong team player.
- Excellent networking skills with the ability to drive consensus.

How You’ll Grow:

At Hackett, we’ve invested significantly to create a rich environment for professional growth. We provide a variety of learning and networking opportunities, including exposure to leaders, sponsors, coaches, and challenging assignments, to help accelerate your career.

Advantages:

We value our people and offer a broad range of benefits.

Hackett’s Culture:

Our positive and supportive culture encourages our people to do their best work every day. We celebrate individuality and offer flexibility to help our employees lead healthy, happy lives.

📌 Associate Manager - Payroll Research (Hyderabad)
🏢 The Hackett Group
📍 Hyderabad