Senior Payroll Manager

Straive · Chennai, India

Role Overview

As the Manager / Senior Manager – India Payroll, you will lead end-to-end payroll operations across multiple entities in India while ensuring statutory compliance, operational excellence, and continuous process improvement. This strategic leadership role partners closely with HR, Finance, Legal, and external vendors to deliver an accurate, compliant, and seamless payroll experience.

Key Responsibilities

Lead end-to-end payroll processing for a large employee base across multiple legal entities with high accuracy and timely execution.

Ensure compliance with all India payroll statutory requirements, including PF, ESIC, Gratuity, Income Tax, Shops & Establishment Act, Payment of Wages Act, and other applicable regulations.

Standardize payroll processes, governance, and controls across multiple business units.

Drive payroll automation, digitization, and system optimization through HRIS and Finance integrations.

Partner with HR, Finance, Legal, and external payroll vendors to ensure seamless payroll governance.

Lead payroll audits, reconciliations, compliance reviews, and risk mitigation initiatives.

Manage, mentor, and develop a high-performing payroll team while fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Prepare payroll dashboards, MIS reports, compliance updates, and business insights for senior leadership.

What We're Looking For

10+ years of experience in India payroll management.

Proven experience managing large employee populations and multi-entity payroll operations.

Bachelor's degree in HR, Finance, Commerce, or a related discipline (MBA/PGDM preferred).

Strong expertise in India payroll legislation and statutory compliance.

Advanced MS Excel skills and experience with payroll systems and HRIS integrations.

Excellent stakeholder management, leadership, analytical, and problem-solving skills.