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Steve Krause of the South African Payroll Association (SAPA) explores the evolving role of pay in South Africa and its growing importance as businesses expand across African markets. As younger professionals help raise the profile of the profession, pay professionals continue to navigate complex regulatory environments, overlapping legislation and sometimes inconsistent guidance from revenue authorities. Krause discusses how international collaboration and the sharing of practical knowledge can help address these challenges, while ensuring pay professionals receive greater recognition for their expertise and contributions. The conversation also examines the growing role of artificial intelligence in payroll. Rather than focussing on job replacement Steve highlights data privacy and governance as key considerations as organisations explore emerging technologies. Looking ahead, he shares his vision for a profession with greater influence at senior leadership level and increased global visibility. Discover how pay professionals are currently navigating change, sharing expertise and helping to shape the future of payroll in South Africa and beyond. *Please note, Steve references several CIPP staff in this episode, including Jason Davenport, our CEO, Sarah Jones, our Event Manager, Sarah Winnett, our Marketing Manager and Daniel Cull, our Commercial Development Manager. He also references Ken, this is Ken Pullar, the previous CEO of the CIPP. Links The South African Payroll Association website: https://www.sapayroll.co.za/

As part of our special global payroll leader mini-series of ‘Behind the Button’, we're joined by Jim Medlock, President of US payroll association, Payroll Org, to talk through payroll’s challenges, opportunities and the shared priorities of the profession across the world. In this episode, the conversation explores changing legislation, including the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, and the impact of artificial intelligence, emphasising the importance of verifying automated outputs. Jim also highlights how accurate payroll data can support strategic decisions, alongside discussing the need for continuous education and constructive engagement with Government. The discussion highlights that, despite regulatory differences around the globe, pay professionals all share the common goal of paying employees accurately and on time. Jim also calls for greater industry input into legislation and encourages teams to maximise their existing software’s capabilities. Glossary IRS = Internal Revenue Service Links PayrollOrg’s 'PayTalk' podcast: https://payroll.org/news-resources/resources/paytalk

Jason Low’s family has spent three decades championing payroll in Australia, building the Association for Payroll Specialists (TAPS) into a thriving community dedicated to education, connection and professional recognition. In this episode, Jason reflects on TAPS’ remarkable growth, his unexpected career in payroll and why the profession deserves greater investment and support. He explores the complexities of Australian employment legislation and the importance of ongoing training in helping businesses get pay right. From working with the Australian Tax Office to sharing knowledge with payroll communities in the UK , Canada and beyond, Jason demonstrates the power of global collaboration in tackling common challenges. His message is clear: simpler rules, stronger support and greater recognition can help pay professionals thrive. Expect humour, heart and passion throughout this fantastic episode. Glossary ATO = Australian Tax Office Links TAPS website: www.payroll.com.au

Join us as we speak to Shane Ormsby, General Manager of the Irish Payroll Association (IPASS). He shares his journey from higher education into payroll and his vision for the profession’s future. Discover how IPASS supports pay professionals in Ireland through education, qualifications and professional development, helping build the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate an ever-changing regulatory landscape. Shane also explores the importance of raising awareness of payroll as a rewarding career and attracting the next generation of talent. The conversation also looks at how artificial intelligence can enhance accuracy, streamline routine tasks and create opportunities for pay professionals to contribute greater strategic insight, while keeping human expertise and trust at the heart of decision-making. Shane highlights the value of collaboration between industry, Government and payroll communities worldwide. By sharing knowledge and learning across borders, professionals can strengthen the wider payroll landscape and help shape a more connected, confident and future-ready profession. *Also, please note, when Shane references 'Jason', he is speaking about the CIPP's Chief Executive Officer, Jason Davenport Glossary AI = artificial intelligence, BIK = benefit in kind, EV = electric vehicle, LLMs = large language models, PAYE = pay as you earn, Links Follow Shane on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-ormsby/ IPASS on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/irish-payroll-association/ Bright on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brightsg/

In this episode from our special mini-series of 'Behind the Button', we’re joined by Peter Tzanetakis, President and Chief Executive Officer, from the National Payroll Institute in Canada for a fascinating conversation that goes beyond payroll. We talk all things hockey and Led Zeppelin before exploring his journey from a finance background into the world of payroll. He shares his first impressions of the profession, how pay professionals work alongside the Canadian Government and the key challenges and opportunities facing the pay community across Canada today. Join us for an engaging discussion about the evolving payroll landscape, the importance of collaboration and what the future holds for the profession in Canada.

Payroll sits at the frontline of workplace compliance, and its role is about to become even more important. In this episode, we go behind the scenes with Lisa Pinney, Chief Executive Officer of the Fair Work Agency (FWA), to explore how the new agency is reshaping the way workplace rules are understood, supported and enforced. Lisa shares her journey from public service and environmental protection to building a new organisation from the ground up. She reveals the opportunities brought about by bringing enforcement bodies together, developing new powers and creating a culture built around fairness and collaboration. We get into the issues that matter to pay professionals, from minimum wage and holiday pay to statutory sick pay, and look ahead to what it will mean when the FWA takes on holiday pay enforcement from 2027. Lisa explains why pay professionals are the 'champions of compliance', along with how the FWA will support employers who want to get things right, but how it will take firm action against deliberate exploitation. Plus, she shares her vision for the next three years and what success could mean for workers, employers and the wider pay professions. Glossary NED = Non-Executive Director Links The Fair Work Agency website: Fair Work Agency - GOV.UK The Fair Work Agency Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FairWorkAgency The Far Work Agency LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fair-work-agency The Fair Work Agency Instgram page: https://www.instagram.com/fairworkagency/

What does the Employment Rights Act mean for pay professionals and the people they pay? In this very special episode of 'Behind the Button', we’re joined by the Minister for the Future of Work, Kate Dearden MP, to talk about the changes coming to employment rights across the UK. Kate talks about what first drew her into politics and her family’s trade union background. She also explains why she believes the Employment Rights Act is such an important step forward for workers. We look at some of the key changes, including statutory sick pay, day-one paternity leave, zero-hours contracts and unfair dismissal protection. Kate also explains why the changes need to be introduced carefully, giving businesses time to prepare. There’s a particular focus on payroll. As Kate points out, pay teams are often closest to how changes like these work in practice. And their feedback matters massively to Government. We also look at what the UK can learn from other countries and what Kate hopes will have changed for workers a year from now. Glossary OECD = Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development Links Employment Rights Act 2025 changes guidance: https://www.business.gov.uk/campaign/employment-changes/ Revised Tipping Code of Practice - Make Work Pay: revised tipping code of practice - GOV.UK Equal Pay and Pay Discrimination - Equal pay and pay discrimination - GOV.UK Workplace Monitoring Technologies - Make Work Pay: workplace monitoring technologies - GOV.UK Timelines - Plan to Make Work Pay and Employment Rights Act: timeline update - GOV.UK

Payroll is no longer just about processing pay; it’s becoming a strategic force for change. On this episode of ‘Behind the Button’, Abigail Vaughan, CEO of Zellis, explores how legislation, technology, artificial intelligence (AI) and shifting workforce expectations are reshaping payroll. From her unconventional career journey to leading through rapid change, Abigail shares why communication and prioritisation are essential in an increasingly change-fatigued workplace. She discusses how payroll teams can balance non-negotiable compliance with a better employee experience, and why payroll deserves a consumer-grade experience rather than remaining an ‘unloved’ back-office function. Abigail also reflects on the pandemic, when payroll’s critical role became impossible for CEOs to ignore and how investment in people and technology can strengthen organisations. Looking ahead, AI could transform payroll roles from repetitive data entry to higher-value work centred on interpretation, judgment and insight, but only if professionals commit to continuous learning and reskilling. Automation could also help improve work-life balance. From financial wellbeing and benefits to real-time reporting and industry collaboration, this episode asks a bigger question: what could payroll become next? Glossary AI = artificial intelligence, HMRC = HM Revenue and Customs Links Follow Abigail on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abigail-vaughan-731642/ The Zellis website: https://www.zellis.com/ Follow Zellis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zellisukltd/ Gartner Workforce Change Fatigue Survey: https://url.uk.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/LVwmCxGD2t192Wpf8fEEiyNAco?domain=gartner.com Zellis Financial Fitness Report: https://url.uk.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/JmvYCy8E9Ir0lBGHMhmmixRA4f?domain=solutions.zellis.com CIPP 'Payroll for non-payroll professionals' course: https://www.cipp.org.uk/course/payroll-for-non-payroll-professionals.html

Anthony Macey, Chief Operating Officer of CIPP's Corporate Partner, Portfolio Payroll, talks about the growing opportunities within the pay professions and why payroll has become such a rewarding and varied career, using his experience of working in payroll recruitment for the last 22 years . Payroll is becoming more complex, with professionals needing to understand data, analytics and the wider needs of the business. Anthony discusses how the role is developing, the skills needed to succeed and why there are more opportunities for progression than ever. He also reflects on National Payroll Week and Portfolio Payroll’s long-standing relationship with the CIPP, which has seen us work together on this hugely important event in the payroll calendar for more than two decades. Anthony shares Portfolio Payroll’s approach to adding value beyond recruitment, including its support for initiatives such as the CIPP's Payroll Quick Learn training, as well as his own, personal journey of hard work and a relentless drive for excellence. Glossary AI = artificial intelligence, RTI = real time information, SMEs = small and medium-sized enterprises, SMP = statutory maternity pay, SSP = statutory sick pay Links Follow Anthony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coorecruitment/ Portfolio Payroll website: https://www.theportfoliogroup.com/payroll/ National Payroll Week: https://www.cipp.org.uk/events/npw-landing.html Payroll Quick Learn: https://www.cipp.org.uk/training-landing/payroll-quicklearn.html

In this episode, payroll expert Clare Warrington shares insights from a career spanning nearly 40 years across retail, healthcare and logistics. Clare discusses the realities of payroll as a high-pressure profession where accuracy, compliance and customer service are essential, while highlighting the importance of maintaining work-life balance and protecting mental wellbeing. From starting as a teenage wages clerk in the pre-digital era to leading payroll operations for thousands of employees, Clare reflects on the value of continuous learning, adaptability and strong people skills. She explains how pay professionals play a vital role in supporting employees’ financial wellbeing and resolving issues with empathy and care. The conversation also explores the future of payroll, including the growing impact of artificial intelligence and automation. Clare believes technology can reduce repetitive tasks and improve efficiency, allowing pay teams to focus on analysis, compliance and employee support. She also shares her passion for mentoring, developing new talent and ensuring the next generation sees payroll as a rewarding and meaningful career. Tune in to hear from someone who truly loves payroll and has built their entire career in the industry. Glossary AI = artificial intelligence, NI = National Insurance, SSP = statutory sick pay Links Follow Clare on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clare-warrington-msc-fcippdip-68067948/ Culina: https://www.culina.co.uk/ The MSc in Strategic Leadership: https://www.cipp.org.uk/training-and-education/study/msc.html CIPP-approved qualifications: https://www.cipp.org.uk/training-and-education/study.html

In this episode of ‘Behind the Button’, Sarah MacIntosh, Chief Executive Officer of Mental Health First Aid MHFA England, shares how her personal experiences and career journey have shaped her passion for improving workplace mental health. From financial services to leading a national organisation, Sarah explains why psychological safety is essential for both employee wellbeing and organisational success. The conversation explores why mental health is everyone's responsibility and how leaders and managers can reduce stigma by encouraging open, honest conversations. Sarah discusses the importance of listening with empathy, recognising the early signs of stress and burnout, and creating cultures where employees feel comfortable bringing their whole selves to work. We also examine the unique pressures faced by pay professionals, where demanding deadlines and high levels of responsibility can impact mental wellbeing. Sarah highlights how Mental Health First Aid training equips people with the confidence to spot the signs of mental ill health, start supportive conversations and guide colleagues towards appropriate help. This fantastic episode offers practical insights into building psychologically safe workplaces where people feel valued, supported and empowered to perform at their best. Creating healthier workplaces starts with more than wellbeing initiatives. It begins with making people feel safe, seen and supported. Links MHFA England website: https://mhfaengland.org/ MHFA England 'My Whole Self' webinar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?reload=9&v=FQKG3exUCpo&time_continue=11&source_ve_path=MjE0Mjgz&embeds_referring_euri=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bing.com%2F&embeds_referring_origin=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bing.com CIPP and MHFA England joint article in Professional magazine: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/42025276/50/ CIPP and MHFA England joint blog on 'My Whole Self': https://www.aomhfa.org/your-stories/building-leadership-around-difference-adrian-s-my-whole-self-story/ CIPP and MHFA England joint blog on 'Experiences of ADHD in the pay industries': https://mhfaengland.org/mhfa-centre/blog/fast-systems-faster-minds-experiences-of-ADHD-in-the-pay-industries/

What does the payroll job market look like right now? In this episode of ‘Behind the Button’, Director at Portfolio Payroll (our Corporate Partners), Gillian Owen joins us to share her insights into the changing world of careers in pay, and what employers are really looking for. Gill explains how payroll has evolved beyond processing payslips, with many roles now offering greater influence across technology, projects and the wider business. She discusses the skills which help candidates stand out, why attitude often matters just as much as experience and how professionals can continue developing throughout their careers. We also talk about what candidates want from employers today, from flexible working and meaningful benefits to clear opportunities for progression. Along the way, we learn more about Gill herself, including her love of creating elaborate fancy dress costumes and why her daughter's enthusiasm for work gives her so much pride. The conversation also explores the differences between the UK and Canadian payroll markets and why the future of payroll has never looked brighter. If you're building a career in payroll, recruiting new talent or simply interested in where the profession is heading, this episode is full of useful information and plenty of reasons to be optimistic. Glossary AI = artificial intelligence, NPI = National Payroll Institute Links Follow Gill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gillian-o-bab0726b/ Follow Portfolio Payroll on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/portfolio-payroll-limited/ Portfolio Payroll: https://www.theportfoliogroup.com/payroll/?utm_source=LinkedIn&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=CIPP_Gill_PodcastJuly2026 Gemma Creamer's article for Professional magazine: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/227085278/69/

This episode of 'Behind the Button' welcomes Sam Johnson, Payroll Partner at Dains, for a conversation about what it really takes to deliver great payroll for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Sam shares her unconventional journey from studying law to building a career in payroll and human resources. She discusses the nuances of supporting owner-managed businesses, why pay professionals must go beyond processing to become trusted advisers and how proactive communication and understanding each client's business are essential to success. Sam also shares her approach to leadership, explaining why she prioritises curiosity, humility and confidence in decision-making when building teams. From managing change to supporting colleagues during busy periods, she reflects on the people-first nature of the pay professions and the rewarding moments that come from helping others grow. Along the way, Sam talks about a memorable trip to Australia with her mum, her dogs, River and Nettle and the importance of in-person networking. She leaves aspiring pay professionals with one key piece of advice: stay curious. Glossary GDPR = General Data Protection Regulation, HMRC = HM Revenue and Customs, RTI = real time information, SMEs = small and medium-sized enterprises, SSP = statutory sick pay Links Follow Sam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-johnson-075060b7/ Follow Dains on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dainsacc/ The Dains website: https://www.dains.com/ Sam's article in The Times: https://www.thetimes.com/business/entrepreneurs/article/employee-benefits-hmrc-ends-p11d-forms-gp7h6qzdw

In this episode, we sit down with the remarkable Duane Jackson, whose story proves that it’s never too late to completely change the direction of your life. After serving time in prison for drug smuggling, he made a conscious decision to rebuild from the ground up. What followed was an extraordinary transformation: from a difficult and troubled past to becoming a successful software entrepreneur. He went on to develop and sell accountancy and payroll software for millions of pounds, demonstrating not only technical skill but also pure resilience. Far from slowing down, he’s still driven by the same creative energy that fuelled his comeback. Today, he continues to build new solutions, including practice management and construction industry scheme (CIS) software, with no sign of stopping. We explore the early challenges which shaped his journey, the pivotal role played by the King’s Trust in helping him turn his life around and how that support became a catalyst for lasting change. He also shares insights for anyone who feels stuck or unsure how to move forward, offering practical encouragement for stepping outside your comfort zone and building something meaningful. This is a powerful conversation about second chances, entrepreneurship and the impact of choosing a different path. A must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs, software builders and anyone looking for inspiration to reinvent their life and career. Glossary AI = artificial intelligence, API = application programming interface, CIS = construction industry scheme, HMRC = HM Revenue and Customs, SMP = statutory maternity pay Links Follow Duane on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duanejackson/ The King's Trust: https://www.kingstrust.org.uk/ Duane's practice management software, Sodium: https://sodiumhq.com/ Duane's construction industry scheme (CIS) software, CIS Manager: https://cismanager.com/

In this episode, we’re joined by someone who has built an extraordinary career, from starting out as an apprentice with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to becoming President of the Chartered Institute of Taxation. We're delighted to have Susan Ball, Chartered Tax Adviser on 'Behind the Button'. Susan reflects on her leadership journey, sharing how she stepped into leadership roles from a young age and learned to lead with honesty and authenticity. She speaks about living with dyslexia, explaining how she became open about it and discussing how sharing vulnerabilities can empower others to feel confident in speaking about their own experiences. Throughout the conversation, Susan discusses the defining moments that have shaped her leadership style, the challenges she's faced along the way and the importance of trusting and leaning on the expertise of the people around her. She also shares valuable insights into building supportive teams, navigating difficult periods in life and work and creating environments where people feel understood and valued. Released during the month in which Mental Health Awareness Week falls, this episode is a must-listen for anyone leading a team or looking to better understand neurodivergence in the workplace and beyond. Links Follow Susan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-ball-ciot/ Chartered Institute of Taxation (CIOT): https://www.tax.org.uk/ British Dyslexia Association: https://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/