MY CIPP
What are your main priorities as the CIPP’s new commercial director? My main priority is to support the Institute's mission of empowering payroll professionals to thrive in an ever-evolving industry. Payroll has always been essential, with pay being the fundamental reason we all go to work, but today, payroll is more strategic and forward-thinking than ever. My goal is to ensure the CIPP remains a leader in equipping payroll professionals to step into these vital roles confidently and with impact. With more than two decades of experience across industries in commercial roles, I’ve learned that organisations succeed when they believe in and empower their people. At the CIPP, this means providing our staff and members with the education, resources and networks they need to excel. From enhancing leadership skills to mastering the latest technology, I’m focussed on making sure we meet and exceed the needs of our members, as well as the wider payroll industry. Another key priority is fostering collaboration, both within the CIPP and across our partnership ecosystem. Building strong teams and creating opportunities for shared learning will enable us to innovate and continue delivering exceptional value to our members, who are shaping the future of the payroll industry. What excites you most about your new role? The most exciting thing about this role is the opportunity to give back to a profession that has given me so much. I’ve been passionate about payroll since I first joined the industry more than 12 years ago, and the chance to
contribute to its growth and recognition is incredibly rewarding. Payroll is more than just numbers – it’s about people! It touches every aspect of an organisation, and its influence is growing. Being part of the CIPP at this pivotal time is an honour. I’m particularly excited to work with such a talented team and a vibrant membership base, all dedicated to elevating the profile of payroll in the UK and beyond. I also see this role as a chance to inspire others, especially those who may not recognise payroll as a career choice. Payroll now offers more than 60 career pathways, making it a dynamic and rewarding field. Through my work, I hope to encourage others to explore the incredible opportunities within this profession and to help them realise the transformative impact they can have on businesses and communities. How do you see the CIPP evolving in the next few years? The CIPP has a bright future ahead. I see us continuing to lead the way in shaping the payroll profession and ensuring it’s recognised for its strategic importance. Membership, education and training will remain at the heart of what we do, but we’ll also expand to meet the changing needs of our members. As technology and automation redefine payroll, we’ll provide the tools and resources professionals need to adapt and thrive. Leadership development has and will continue to be a major focus, equipping payroll professionals to take on more strategic and influential roles within their organisations. Beyond education, I see the CIPP playing an even bigger role as an advocate for the profession. We’ll work to ensure
payroll professionals are recognised – not just as technical experts, but as vital contributors to business success. By fostering stronger collaborations between payroll, human resources and finance, we can help organisations unlock new levels of efficiency and value. What are your interests outside of work? When I’m not at work, my focus is on family and personal growth. I love spending time with my wife of 16 years, our teenage kids and energetic young Cocker Spaniel, who keeps us all active and smiling. Executive coaching and non-executive director development are other passions of mine. I’ve always been driven by the idea of helping others and organisations become the best version of themselves, and coaching at senior levels allows me to do just that. Whether it’s mentoring a team member or supporting a peer, I find great satisfaction in empowering others to reach their potential. Music is a big part of my life, and I enjoy playing the piano to relax and recharge. Staying fit is important to me too, so you’ll often find me at the gym. My faith is absolutely central to who I am, providing balance and perspective in both my personal and professional life. Everything I do, whether at work or in my personal time, is about building something meaningful. At the CIPP, that means helping shape a future where payroll is celebrated as an essential, dynamic and strategic profession. Being part of this journey is both inspiring and fulfilling, and I am thoroughly excited for what’s ahead. o
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| Professional in Payroll, Pensions and Reward |
Issue 107 | February 2025
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