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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/

Emma Greenfield, Head of Payroll Services at Specsavers, is a dedicated pay professional with a career in the industry that began in her teenage years. Since then, she's built extensive experience processing payroll across a wide variety of sectors, working in both in-house teams and outsourced payroll environments. Her journey through the profession has given her a unique perspective on the challenges, changes and opportunities within the world of pay. In this episode of 'Behind the Button', we take a closer look at Emma’s career journey and the passion for payroll that's kept her motivated throughout the years. We discuss the different roles she's held, the lessons learned along the way, and why she ultimately chose to remain in payroll despite opportunities to branch into other areas of business. The conversation also explores Emma’s leadership journey, including how she found herself leading teams from a very young age and the experiences that helped shape her leadership style. From mentors and role models to real-life challenges and career-defining moments, Emma shares the influences which have guided her approach to supporting and developing others. Packed with Emma's honest reflections and her genuine enthusiasm for the profession, this episode offers an engaging look behind the scenes of a successful career in payroll. Glossary JBP model = joint business plan model, PAS = the CIPP's Payroll Assurance Scheme, P&L = profit and loss, SOPs = standard operating procedures Links Follow Emma on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-greenfield-b456bb47/ Find out more about the CIPP's Payroll Assurance Scheme: https://www.cipp.org.uk/best-practice/payroll-assurance-scheme.html Find out more about Payroll QuickLearn or 'PQL': https://www.cipp.org.uk/training-landing/payroll-quicklearn.html Find out more about IPPE qualifications: https://www.cipp.org.uk/training-and-education.html

In this special episode, we turn the tables on the traditional 'Behind the Button' format. Instead of leading the conversation, the hosts step into the spotlight as the guests. Join Lora Murphy and Adrian Goddard for a personal and wide-ranging conversation as they step away from their usual roles and share their own stories. Lora and Adrian talk about what they genuinely enjoy most about working at the CIPP, and the moments and motivations that have shaped their careers. Along the way, they talk about why they feel so privileged to work alongside so many incredible individuals across the profession, while reflecting on the shifts they’ve seen across the industry, exploring how it continues to evolve and what that means for the professionals working within it. This very special episode also sets the stage for Adrian’s debut as podcast co-host, launching Monday 11 May. Glossary DWP = the Department for Work and Pensions, GDPR = General Data Protection Regulation, RTI = real time information Links Follow Adrian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-goddard/ Follow Lora on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lora-murphy-mcippdip/

Richard Smith joins us on ‘Behind the Button’ to share a story that’s both personal and highly relevant. After losing his wife to cancer, Richard found himself accessing a pension much earlier than expected. It’s an experience that brought home just how important it is to understand what you have in place financially, especially when life takes an unexpected turn. We focus on Richard’s work on the Government’s new pensions dashboards, as he’s been closely involved in both the design and testing of this exciting initiative. They’re set to make a real difference, bringing all of an individual’s pensions together in one place, including those that may have been lost or forgotten over time. With state pension figures included too, the aim is to give a much clearer picture of what you might have to live on in retirement, helping people plan with more confidence. Richard’s passion really comes through in this episode, bringing to life not just how the dashboards work, but why they matter. It’s a thoughtful conversation about real-life experience and a practical step forward in how we all approach retirement planning. Links Follow Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-smith-b15935/ Richard's blog, 'Dashboard ideas': https://www.dashboardideas.co.uk/about/ MoneyHelper website: https://www.moneyhelper.org.uk/en Pensions Dashboards Programme website: https://www.pensionsdashboardsprogramme.org.uk/ Retirement living standards website : https://www.retirementlivingstandards.org.uk/ Financial Times 2014 article, 'Retiement Saver Service': https://www.ft.com/content/74bdbe44-0da0-11e4-815f-00144feabdc0 SEI research, 'Creating an ownership mindset': https://www.seic.com/sites/default/files/2022-12/Creating%20an%20ownership%20mindset%20with%20DC%20members_SEI_December%202022.pdf 2026 Standard Life centre for the future of retirement: https://www.standardlife.co.uk/centre-for-the-future-of-retirement/research-reports

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with the fabulous Emily Trant as we explore the fascinating psychology behind pay. In this episode, we dive into how individuals perceive money differently, and how those perceptions are shaped by personal experiences, societal influences and access to financial opportunities. Emily joins us fresh from recording her own widely acclaimed podcast, The Invisible Worker, where she shines a spotlight on the often-overlooked workers in society. Bringing that same insight and passion to this discussion, Emily challenges us to rethink how financial systems are designed, and who they’re really designed for. A key theme in this episode is inclusivity in financial products. We examine the gap between the people creating these systems and the diverse populations they’re meant to serve, raising important questions about representation, accessibility and fairness. This is an episode which will leave you reflecting on your own perceptions of money and how we can build a more inclusive financial future. Glossary OECD = Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, SMEs = small and medium-sized enterprises Links Follow Emily on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-trant/ Invisible Worker podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLESOtaKdqCttJkiqJTiAAAaSX8YKmsAZc Stream: https://stream.co/en The State of Financial Wellbeing Report 2025: https://stream.co/en/reports/the-state-of-financial-wellbeing-2025

In this special episode of 'Behind the Button', we turn the spotlight onto leadership as we sit down with our very own Jason Davenport, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the CIPP. Join us for an insightful conversation exploring the Institute’s refreshed strategic direction, including the four key pillars shaping its future and guiding its work across the pay professions. But it’s not all strategy, as Jason also shares his wonderful personal story. From his unique journey into payroll to his experiences beyond the office, we dive into the person behind the role. Despite being CEO, Jason remains hands-on, still rolling up his sleeves and getting involved in processing payroll for CIPP staff, demonstrating a genuine passion for the profession at every level. Expect honest reflections on career growth, family life, ambitions and what working in the pay industries truly means to him. This episode offers the perfect blend of industry insight and personal perspective, and is a must-watch for anyone with an interest in the world of pay. Links https://www.cipp.org.uk/membership

In this episode, we’re joined by Paul Chamberlain, Head of Employment and People Solutions at JMW Solicitors, to break down what the Employment Rights Act means for pay professionals and payroll teams. Paul walks us through the key milestone dates payroll and human resources (HR) professionals need to have on their radar, along with the major legislative changes that will affect how organisations manage pay, employment rights and compliance. With the Employment Rights Act representing one of the most significant shifts in worker protections in decades, this episode provides practical insights to help professionals prepare for what’s ahead. Alongside the legal updates, Paul also shares more about his career journey into employment law, his interests outside of the legal world and some of the most surprising and memorable stories he’s encountered during his time as an employment lawyer. Whether you're working in payroll, HR or employment compliance, this episode offers valuable context and real-world perspective on a rapidly evolving area of workplace law. DISCLAIMER: Please note that changes to 'fire and rehire' will now take place from January 2027, and not October 2026, as mentioned in the episode. LINKS: Follow Paul on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chamberlainpaul/?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_feed%3BusdilH4aTe%2Bona7OjyQLDQ%3D%3D Reach out to Paul via email, at [email protected] JMW People Solutions webpage: https://www.jmw.co.uk/services-for-business/employment/recruitment-support Employment Rights Act timeline: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/implementing-the-plan-to-make-work-pay-and-employment-rights-act/plan-to-make-work-pay-and-employment-rights-act-timeline-update Policy papers and consultation page on GOV.UK: https://www.gov.uk/search/policy-papers-and-consultations https://www.cipp.org.uk