REWARD
From dental nurse to payroll partner: my journey through the numbers
Karen Thomson MSc ChFCIPPdip FHEA, Partner and Head of Payroll, Armstrong Watson, shares her career story, from beginnings as a dental nurse, to fronting the CIPP’s policy and research team, to becoming a head of payroll and partner
W hen I was growing up in the 70s, a career in payroll wasn’t exactly on my radar. But life has a way of guiding us toward our true calling, even if it takes a few detours. From my early days as a dental nurse to becoming head of payroll and a partner at Armstrong Watson LLP, my journey has been anything but conventional. Yet, every step has shaped the professional I am today. Early career: finding my feet At 16, I had no clear career path. Well, I did consider joining the Navy, but since girls weren’t allowed on ships at the time, I didn’t see the point in pursuing it. I started instead as an office junior, then moved into accounts, before training as a dental nurse. It was during a move to Edinburgh, after a coin toss between Glasgow and the capital, that I realised the NHS pay scale wouldn’t cover city living. That reality nudged me toward local Government, where I found myself in human resources and, later, pensions administration. It was here, under the mentorship of Margaret Thomson, that I discovered a love for interpreting legislation. Numbers and rules began to make sense, and I found satisfaction in making them work for people. The non-accidental payroll professional A move to Cumbria to be closer to my father, and to support my husband’s police career, led me to Cumbria Constabulary. I applied for a role as a payroll administrator, and that’s where my payroll journey truly began. I loved the work immediately. It was technical, people-focussed and constantly evolving. From there, I moved between public and private sector roles, gaining experience and qualifications, including what was then the IPPM Diploma. Then came a pivotal moment: applying for the policy and research officer role at the Institute of Payroll and Pensions Management (now the CIPP). I submitted a CV so lengthy it could have passed for a novel, but it did the trick.
Policy, research and making a difference When Kate Upcraft offered me the job, I felt like I’d won the lottery. Working from home with my dog, Baxter, by my side, I dove into the world of payroll policy. Kate had built a strong foundation, and I was eager to contribute. With her guidance, I learned the ropes and began engaging with members and Government departments. Consultation work was both rewarding and frustrating. It required compromise, persistence and a deep understanding of the profession’s needs. When Kate moved on, I found myself running the policy function solo. After three months, I applied for the manager role, and to my surprise, I thrived. Leadership and strategic vision As policy manager, I recruited a new team and began shaping the strategic direction of the Institute’s policy function. I supported the goal of achieving Chartered status, which we proudly accomplished in 2010. Earning my MSc in 2011 was a personal milestone and the pinnacle of my academic journey. I was also proudly one of the first to become a Chartered member. Over the years, I’ve worked with incredible colleagues at the CIPP, including Samantha Mann (I still work with Sam!), Elaine Gibson, Diana Bruce and Helen Hargreaves. And together, we strived to elevate the profession. My career, both past and present, has involved writing articles and delivering webinars. Previously, I represented payroll professionals in Government forums on behalf of the CIPP, but I now advocate for agents and businesses. I’ve always believed in sharing knowledge and helping others grow. Armstrong Watson: a new chapter In 2015, I joined Armstrong Watson LLP as head of payroll services and was later made partner – the first female partner in payroll and people for the firm – an achievement I worked hard to obtain. During the pandemic, I had the privilege of leading both the payroll and people teams,
focussing on delivering high-quality technical advice, mentoring colleagues and crafting future-proof strategies. I feel honoured to work alongside some of the most talented payroll professionals, including Samantha Mann, Lisa Carruthers, Julie Farish, Elaine Gray, Nicola Woodward, Susan Holmes and many others. Another proud achievement has been creating a ‘payroll academy’, using the apprenticeship scheme. It’s a tangible way to invest in the next generation and ensure the profession continues to thrive. I also serve on the HM Revenue and Customs Admin Burdens Advisory Board, advocating for small businesses and helping shape tax policy, and the Employment and Payroll Group. My role is both technical and strategic, and I love the balance. Values and vision Throughout my career, I’ve remained passionate about payroll, pensions and employment law. I’m known for being a sponge for technical knowledge, but I’m also a strategic thinker. I embrace change, especially when it involves technology; artificial intelligence and robotics are exciting frontiers. I’m expressive and extroverted, but I value self-awareness and adaptability. Whether working remotely or collaborating with stakeholders, I strive to bring energy, insight and empathy to everything I do. Is it OK to dream? I never imagined becoming a payroll professional when I left school, but I’m so grateful the opportunity came my way, and that I embraced it. The journey has been filled with unexpected turns, inspiring mentors and meaningful milestones. From interpreting legislation to influencing policy, I’ve found purpose in helping others, including our clients. And, in shaping the future of payroll, guiding businesses through the treacle. Remember, anything is possible. As Henry David Thoreau said, “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined.” n
| Professional in Payroll, Pensions and Reward | November 2025 | Issue 115 44
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