Analyst - Payroll

WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company – powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. We work with the world's most valuable brands and have global reach across 100+ markets, with deep local expertise. Our people are the key to our success. We're committed to fostering a culture of creativity, belonging and continuous learning, attracting and developing the brightest talent, and providing exciting career opportunities that help our people grow. For more information, visit WPP.com. Role Overview The Payroll Executive will be responsible for supporting end-to-end payroll operations, ensuring accurate payroll processing, statutory compliance, employee query management, and payroll reconciliations. The role requires attention to detail, strong payroll knowledge, and the ability to coordinate effectively with internal stakeholders and payroll vendors. Key Responsibilities Payroll Processing & Operations • Process monthly payroll activities and ensure timely and accurate salary disbursement. • Collect, validate, and compile payroll inputs including new hires, exits, salary revisions, leave data, and other employee-related changes. • Prepare payroll input and reconciliation files using Excel. • Verify payroll output reports received from payroll vendors, including salary registers, tax reports, and payroll summaries. • Support Full & Final Settlement (F&F) processing and validation. Payroll Accounting & Reconciliations • Assist in payroll account reconciliations and payroll-related general ledger validation. • Support month-end payroll reporting and reconciliations. • Maintain payroll records and documentation for audit and compliance purposes. Statutory Compliance • Support compliance activities related to Provident Fund (PF), Professional Tax (PT), Income Tax, Labour Welfare Fund, and other statutory requirements. • Coordinate with consultants/vendors for statutory challan generation and return filings. • Assist in quarterly e-TDS (Form 24Q) filings, revised returns, and Form 16 generation. • Track statutory payment and return filing timelines to ensure compliance. Employee & Stakeholder Management • Respond to employee payroll queries and provide timely resolution. • Coordinate with HR, Finance, and business stakeholders to obtain payroll inputs and resolve payroll-related issues. • Maintain effective communication with payroll vendors and internal teams. Audit Support • Support internal, statutory and tax audits by providing payroll-related data and documentation. • Assist in payroll reconciliations and audit requirements. Qualifications • Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, Commerce, Human Resources, or a related field. • Payroll, Taxation, or Finance certifications will be an added advantage. Experience • 4 to 7 years of experience in payroll processing, payroll reporting, and statutory compliance. • Experience working with payroll systems and payroll vendors will be preferred. Skills & Competencies • Good knowledge of Indian payroll processes and statutory compliances. • Understanding of Income Tax, Provident Fund, and payroll-related regulations. • Proficiency in Advanced Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Outlook. • Good verbal and written communication skills. • Strong attention to detail and accuracy. • Customer-focused approach towards employee query management. Preferred Knowledge • Experience with payroll platforms such as ADP and Workday • Basic understanding of payroll accounting and statutory reporting. Who you are: You're open : We are inclusive and collaborative; we encourage the free exchange of ideas; we respect and celebrate diverse views. We are open-minded: to new ideas, new partnerships, new ways of working. You're optimistic : We believe in the power of creativity, technology and talent to create brighter futures or our people, our clients and our communities. We approach all that we do with conviction: to try the new and to seek the unexpected. You're extraordinary: we are stronger together: through collaboration we achieve the amazing. We are creative leaders and pioneers of our industry; we provide extraordinary every day. What we'll give you: Passionate, inspired people – We aim to create a culture in which people can do extraordinary work. Scale and opportunity – We offer the opportunity to create, influence and complete projects at a scale that is unparalleled in the industry. Challenging and stimulating work – Unique work and the opportunity to join a group of creative problem solvers. Are you up for the challenge? #LI-Hybrid #LI-DNP We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process. WPP is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers. Please read our Privacy Notice (https://www.wpp.com/en/careers/wpp-privacy-policy-for-recruitment) for more information on how we process the information you provide.