Benefits and Payroll Manager

The Benefits & Payroll Manager plays a pivotal role in overseeing the payroll operations for Rodeo’s India Studio.  The Benefits and Payroll Manager will manage  the day-to-day administration of employee benefits and payroll. The role ensures accurate employee information across the HRIS and the payroll system, timely payroll inputs and a smooth employee experience. Working closely with HR and Finance, this person serves as a point of contact for questions related to benefits, leave and payroll. The role requires accuracy, discretion and the ability to meet strict deadlines while coordinating with local and international teams. Key Responsibilities Benefits & Leave Administration • Administer employee benefit programs offered in India, including group insurance and wellness benefits, coordinating enrolments, changes, dependent information and coverage termination. • Liaise with insurance providers, brokers and other benefit partners to maintain accurate records and resolve administrative issues. • Maintain leave and absence records, including maternity leave, sick leave and other approved absences, in accordance with company policies and applicable requirements. • Respond to employee and manager questions about benefits, eligibility, coverage and leave, escalating complex cases as needed. • Maintain benefit documentation and coordinate employee information sessions with providers when required. Payroll Preparation & Coordination • Oversee, manage and prepare the entire payroll processing cycle within established deadlines, including new hires, departures, salary changes, attendance, unpaid leave adjustments. • Verify approved compensation information, including cost-to-company (CTC) components, effective dates and employee status changes, before payroll processing. • Prepare or validate prorated pay, arrears, retroactive adjustments, leave-related adjustments and corrections • Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations related to payroll, taxes, and employee benefits; • Oversee the preparation and submission of tax filings and other statutory reports; • Review payroll registers and supporting reports, investigate discrepancies and coordinate corrections before submission for approval. • Coordinate full and final settlement inputs for departing employees, including outstanding salary, leave encashment and other applicable dues. • Support Finance with payroll reconciliations, supporting documentation and payment preparation. HRIS Data Integrity & Employee Coordination • Support onboarding by verifying payroll information, coordinating benefit enrolment and explaining payroll and benefits processes to new employees. • Coordinate offboarding updates across HR, payroll and benefit providers. • Document procedures, maintain tracking tools and contribute to consistent practices between the India studio and global HR teams. • Handle employee information securely and maintain strict confidentiality. Reporting & Process Improvement • Prepare and maintain HR, payroll and benefits reports, including headcount changes, leave balances, payroll adjustments and benefit enrolment. • Identify recurring discrepancies and recommend improvements to data quality, controls and employee support. • Participate in HR projects, system implementations and process improvements. • Coordinate with local and international stakeholders to resolve operational issues and meet reporting deadlines. • At least 5 years of relevant experience combining benefits administration with hands-on payroll preparation in India. • Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Human Resources, Accounting, Business Administration or a related field, or equivalent practical experience. • Practical knowledge of Indian payroll processes, including monthly in