Associate Manager

Job Description: Do you have a strong understanding of 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 payroll research professional, you will partner with Hackett’s payroll advisors, clients, and global stakeholders across industries to understand key trends, issues, and challenges related to establishing world-class performance. You will be a member of The Hackett Group’s research team, which covers G&A functions (finance, HR, AI, and procurement), GBS, and end-to-end process programs (A2R, C2C, P2P, and payroll). You will work closely with advisors in the functional applied intelligence 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 and agentic AI.
• Contribute to the advancement and quality of payroll research and thought leadership initiatives.
• Lead and support the creation of payroll research agenda and deliverables including quantitative studies, benchmark data analysis, in-depth research reports, case studies, newsletters, 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 the development and lifecycle of 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 in social channels, live and via webcasts, podcasts, and more.
• Oversee incoming payroll client inquiries and share topical insights broadly.

Qualifications:

• 10+ years of experience in business research, analysis, advisory or strategy consulting roles.
• In-depth understanding of the following payroll sub processes such as payroll administration, time and attendance, and leave administration.
• Master’s Degree (MBA).
• Knowledge of advanced technologies and business trends.
• Passion for creating high-quality content and transforming payroll process program within an enterprise through compelling thought leadership and research.
• Exposure to the impact of 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 record of delivering research/consulting services in payroll function 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.
• Curiosity and experience using generative AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot, and others.
• Experience in 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 understanding 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 collaborator.
• Excellent networking skills with the ability to drive consensus.