Vanessa Hamilton
Payescape Ltd
What course have you studied/are you currently studying?
To support my career in the payroll industry, I studied and gained the CIPP Level 3 Payroll Technician Certificate, which helped me develop my core skills in payroll processing. It covered a wide range of topics, including how to calculate gross pay, statutory payments, tax and national insurance deductions, and pension contributions. The course developed and consolidated my payroll knowledge, giving me the confidence to progress my career.
How would you describe your experience of studying with the CIPP?
I chose to complete an intense course which involved me obtaining the qualification in three months as opposed to six. The support from the CIPP during this time was extremely professional and supportive. My tutor travelled from the mainland UK to Northern Ireland to teach the course. She was very thorough in her teaching and extremely helpful. She was knowledgeable and made the learning process fun!
The CIPP membership, which followed completion of the course, was invaluable as it gave me access to qualified advisors to answer complex payroll queries. They were only ever a phone call away! This was a great benefit and further supported my development as I was able to learn from them and gain experience.
Why was it important to you that you gained this qualification?
Although I have worked in payroll for over ten years, I didn't have a recognised qualification to support my experience. I felt that the CIPP, as a well-known and credible organisation within the payroll industry, would be instrumental in growing my career to management level.
It is all too easy to become reliant on software, and I felt it was important to learn how to perform the calculations manually and gain the skills to underpin my existing knowledge. In practice, this boosted my confidence with client queries, as I was able to explain and break down calculations in simple terms.
Why was it important to you that you gained this qualification?
Although I have worked in payroll for over ten years, I didn't have a recognised qualification to support my experience. I felt that the CIPP, as a well-known and credible organisation within the payroll industry, would be instrumental in growing my career to management level.
It is all too easy to become reliant on software, and I felt it was important to learn how to perform the calculations manually and gain the skills to underpin my existing knowledge. In practice, this boosted my confidence with client queries, as I was able to explain and break down calculations in simple terms.
Can you describe your payroll career/journey to us so far?
I come from a finance background, primarily in accounts. As my previous employer invested in several other businesses, I found myself taking on the task of processing payroll for approximately 250 staff. Truth be told, this is not where I had envisaged my career, however, I found that I really enjoyed it and proceeded to take up a post at Payescape as a payroll administrator. Payescaepe is a busy payroll bureau, processing payroll for thousands of clients. It is a fast-paced environment, so I knew the CIPP course would be beneficial. After completing the course, I quickly progressed to team leader and then to operations manager.
I am pleased to say that I was recently promoted to director of client services. This role involves ensuring client satisfaction and maintaining a 98% client retention rate. I am moving into a different area in business, being up to date with ever-evolving payroll legislation is crucial and CIPP membership allows me to do this.
Do you have any plans for further study with us? If so, what are they and why?
I am currently studying CIPD level 5 diploma in human resources. Once I have completed this, I intend to enrol on the Foundation Degree in Payroll Management with the CIPP.
Personal development is important to me, and I am always eager to learn and gain further knowledge. This will enable me to pass my expertise onto colleagues and support them in their development journeys which, in turn, will benefit our clients. I am incredibly lucky that the company I work for is continuously investing in its employees.
What advice do you have for someone who is thinking of studying a qualification with us?
I would not hesitate in recommending the CIPP to others. My studies with the CIPP have been a great investment.
I feel immensely proud to have achieved an industry-recognised qualification with such a distinguished body. The CIPP has been instrumental in my development, and I feel it would do the same for anyone who is keen to strengthen their knowledge and enhance their skills.
How do you feel about working in payroll? What does working in payroll mean to you?
For me, payroll is a very worthwhile and rewarding job. It is a fast-paced environment, and I particularly enjoy the sense of satisfaction and achievement at month-end when the pressure is on. We always manage to get everyone paid on time!
I feel honoured to say that payrollers were identified as key workers during the pandemic and were a vital cog in the wheels of many businesses. We provided essential information to many who were placed on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme.
I enjoy being part of a close-knit team where everyone lends a helping hand. Hopefully, I am a testament to those who have chosen a career in payroll, as there are plenty of opportunities for growth and development, if that is the path you wish to take.