PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
# Be Payroll Gulnaz Patel ACIPP, payroll manager at Calico Group, explains her reasons for pursuing training and how qualifications provided by IPPE Education (IPPE) have enhanced her career, as well as the benefits of CIPP membership
Why did CIPP membership appeal to you? Joining the CIPP is highly appealing for several reasons. It reflects my commitment to upholding the highest standards in payroll and pensions, which enhances my professional reputation. CIPP membership provides invaluable career advancement opportunities and access to a wealth of resources, including industry research, best practice guides and legislative updates. The Institute offers excellent education and training through courses, webinars, and events, ensuring I stay informed of the latest developments. Additionally, the opportunity to network with other professionals in the CIPP community is a significant benefit, allowing me to share knowledge and experiences. Exclusive benefits, such as discounts on training and access to special events and publications, further enhance the value of membership. Overall, being part of the CIPP supports my career growth, helps me navigate complex regulatory environments and keeps me connected within the industry. Do you have any tips for people entering the payroll profession? Entering the payroll profession is both rewarding and challenging, requiring a mix of technical knowledge and soft skills. Start by building a solid foundation in payroll fundamentals and consider obtaining certifications to boost your expertise and credibility. Staying updated on industry changes and paying attention to detail are crucial. Strong communication skills, networking with peers and seeking mentorship are also important. Embracing new technologies and maintaining high ethical standards and confidentiality will help you navigate the complexities of payroll and advance your career. How did you manage studying with other commitments? Balancing study with other commitments, such as work and family life, required
careful planning and strong support systems. My manager played a crucial role by allowing me some dedicated study time, which helped me manage my workload more effectively. This flexibility enabled me to focus on my assignments without feeling overwhelmed. Additionally, my family has been incredibly supportive throughout my studies. They encouraged me to complete my assignments on time and provided a conducive environment for studying. My son, in particular, has been very involved, often checking in to see how many words I have left, which has kept me motivated and on track. I also utilised quiet times at home for catching up on reading and assignments, keeping me ahead of deadlines. Why did you study with IPPE? The CIPP is highly respected in the industry, and with IPPE (a subsidiary of the CIPP) offering comprehensive and up-to-date training, it ensures I’m well-versed in current regulations and best practices. IPPE certification provides the certification provides a significant boost to my professional credibility and career prospects. The resources, networking opportunities, and continuous professional development offered by the Institute further motivated me to pursue qualifications, as they are essential for staying informed and competitive in my profession. Which CIPP member benefits would you encourage other payrollers to use and why? Firstly, the CIPP Advisory Service is invaluable for getting expert guidance on complex payroll and pensions issues, helping to resolve queries and ensure compliance with current regulations. Additionally, staying updated through the CIPP and IPPE LinkedIn pages is beneficial for timely news and industry insights, keeping you informed of the latest trends
and developments. The CIPP website and member pages offer access to a wealth of resources, including best practice guides and legislative updates. Don’t overlook Professional magazine, which provides in-depth articles, case studies, and expert opinions on various industry topics, enhancing your knowledge and keeping you engaged with the profession. These resources collectively support professional growth, compliance, and advancement in the payroll field. How have your qualifications helped you in your career? My qualifications have been pivotal in advancing my career as a payroll manager. Studying for a foundation degree in payroll management was a significant stepping stone, opening doors and enabling me to progress from a payroll administrator to a payroll coordinator, and ultimately to my current role as a payroll manager. Currently, as I near the end of my pension course, I’m gaining valuable insights into pension regulations and schemes. This will enhance my ability to manage and integrate pension functions effectively, offering comprehensive support and ensuring compliance. Each qualification has equipped me with the knowledge and confidence to advance in my career, allowing me to take on greater responsibilities and leadership roles.
How did you begin your career in payroll?
I started my career in 2007 as a payroll administrator at an accountancy firm and I’ve been dedicated to the field ever since. The complexity and constantly evolving nature of payroll immediately fascinated me. This initial role sparked a deep interest in the intricate processes and regulatory changes that shape payroll management. Driven by this passion, I’ve continuously advanced my skills and embraced new responsibilities, always eager to stay current with industry developments and progress in my career. n
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| Professional in Payroll, Pensions and Reward |
Issue 104 | October 2024
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