REWARD
“Today, it’s not unusual to see payroll professionals moving into executive leadership roles and, in a growing number of cases, earning six-figure salaries”
began my career in a predominantly paper- driven environment, but I’m now leveraging powerful software solutions, automated workflows and AI-driven data checks. As technology continues to advance, so too do the possibilities for working faster, more accurately and more strategically. Automation RPA reduces manual tasks, minimising human error and freeing up time for payroll professionals to focus on complex problem- solving and service quality. Analytics and dashboards Many systems now offer real-time reporting on headcount, costs and performance metrics, letting payroll professionals provide strategic insights to the finance and leadership teams.
This combination was vital in preparing me for later responsibilities, including managing large payroll teams and persuading leadership teams to adopt new systems and processes. Simply put: if you enjoy tackling intricate details and thrive on solving problems which evolve over time, payroll offers continuous stimulation. Access to a range of industry- specific qualifications and courses Professional qualifications are at the heart of our industry’s credibility. When I moved into my first payroll role, the value of training and formal education was made abundantly clear: while experience is core to developing practical know-how, credentials set a strong foundation and show real commitment to keeping up with the profession’s demands. In the UK, there are widely recognised programmes, such as the CIPP-approved Payroll Technician Certificate for those starting out. These qualifications go far beyond basic pay calculations, covering essential statutory obligations and governance issues that shape the business context in which payroll operates. Progressing further, there’s also the Foundation Degree in Payroll Management, which provides a robust understanding of payroll’s strategic importance. Investing in these qualifications shows an employer (or potential employer) that you’re dedicated to accuracy, compliance and continuous improvement. My own professional journey exemplifies the advantages of combining practical experience with formal study. Completing my payroll degree was a significant milestone, one I started when my daughter was just six months old. It was challenging, but it opened so many more doors and gave me the confidence I needed to take on larger responsibilities and I continue to use the skillsets learned in my role today. Payroll professionals can progress into a variety of advanced pay and reward specialisms One of the most exciting features of payroll is its diversity. I sometimes refer to the profession as a ‘hub’, which connects
data, people, finance, legislation and strategy. With payroll as the central node, experienced professionals can branch into areas like: Data and analytics Converting raw pay information into insights which drive decision-making around staffing, resourcing and risk management. Process implementation and project management Improving or fully installing payroll systems and technologies to streamline operations for local or global teams. Technology expertise Working with cutting-edge software, cloud- based systems, robotic process automation (RPA) and early-stage artificial intelligence (AI) to modernise the payroll cycle. Client and account management In bureau settings, building valuable client relationships, handling multiple payrolls across industries and becoming a consultative partner. Compliance and governance Specialising in constantly changing legal frameworks to ensure organisations fulfil their duties effectively and ethically. Payroll advisory Providing payroll expertise through reviews of systems, technology, processes,
Globalisation Cloud-based solutions make it easier to run multi-country payrolls, scale quickly and maintain stronger compliance across jurisdictions.
For young professionals with an aptitude or interest in technology, payroll provides a way to channel that passion: you’ll be among those shaping the landscape of HR and finance tech, while still engaging with a people-centric function. Payroll is a thriving, diverse and essential profession. It’s secure, as every organisation depends on accurate and timely pay processes. It’s increasingly lucrative, as businesses recognise the strategic value of payroll and open up more senior, higher-paying positions for those with the right blend of expertise and communication skills. It’s also endlessly stimulating: the evolving regulatory landscape and continual technological advances keep practitioners on their toes, demanding that we learn, adapt and innovate. I’ve personally experienced payroll’s transformative power, going from an entry- level position to becoming a partner in a leading accountancy firm. That journey has been supported by formal qualifications, consistent learning and the ability to translate payroll insights into business language. To anyone drawn to a profession which blends detail-oriented tasks, strategic thinking, interpersonal collaboration and advanced technology, payroll offers a rewarding and dynamic career path. n
contingency and risk, payroll audit / reconciliation and prior year issue resolution and corrections.
I’ve worn several hats over the course of my career – a testament to the fact we can apply payroll principles in areas as varied as sales, client liaison, people leadership, global payroll strategy and more. This breadth means that as you evolve, the profession evolves with you, supporting new ambitions and offering continual variety. Pay and reward technology is an arena of growth and innovation If there’s one area that underscores the dramatic shift in payroll, it’s technology. I
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| Professional in Payroll, Pensions and Reward |
Issue 114 | October 2025
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