CAREER DEVELOPMENT INSIGHT
Diary of a student…
Ruvena DeyMCIPPdip Payroll manager, Great Western Railway
For me graduation was one of the proudest moments in my life. I graduated in November 2017, age 34. Studying towards a qualification alongside a full-time job is no easy feat. Howdid you cope with the pressure as, like a qualification, payroll is very deadline driven? Advance planning is key. You will receive your CIPP timetable at the start of the year and you will also know your payroll deadlines. Speak with your employer if the dates overlap and ensure there is adequate cover in place. Also remember make time for yourself. It is extremely important to look after your wellbeing because otherwise you will not be able to give your all to your studies or your job. The pressure a student can put on themselves is immense, as everyone wants to ensure they are successful – but success is also knowing when to take a break, reset and then revisit with fresh eyes. How important would you rate qualifications to the payroll profession? Everyone has experience within their chosen field, but a qualification shows an employer you are driven, have a passion and are willing to dedicate time to enhance your skills. It also gives you a sense of pride and a recognised qualification is always a good addition to any CV. n
Why did you decide to study the CIPP’s Foundation Degree in Payroll Management? Though I’ve had several different roles, I never really found my true passion. I fell into payroll – as most people do – when at age 30 I offered to cover maternity leave. It was then I realised that I wanted to focus my career in payroll. I love the fact it is black or white, right or wrong. As I knew this was my chosen career, I wanted to enhance my skills and educate myself in my new chosen field. What have you gained from studying the qualification? I have gained incredible knowledge and understanding, self-worth, confidence and the career I have always desired. How has it helped you in your career and how you manage payroll? My employer has recognised I am dedicated and passionate about payroll and with my latest promotion I am now the youngest payroll manager on record in my current organisation. I manage my payrolls in a methodical,
practical approach, forward planning and ensuring contingency plans are in place.
For someone who is thinking about studying for a CIPP qualification what would your advice be to them? This will be a hard commitment, so speak with friends and family and your employer to ensure you have additional support. When you meet your tutor group, get to know everyone and exchange numbers – these friends will also understand any concerns you may have as they are going through the same life experience. You are all trying to enhance your skillset to further your career with the pressure of modern-day life. On the days when you feel like giving up – and, trust me, there will be a few as it is tough to juggle studying, home life, developing your career, and trying to have some kind of social life – just remember that when you walk across the stage in your cap and gown in front of family and friends you will feel a sense of self-accomplishment which you could never imagine, and a smile to match. At that point you will know all your hard work paid off.
| Professional in Payroll, Pensions and Reward | October 2019 | Issue 54 10
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