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/

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/

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

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/

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

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

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

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 paul.chamberlain@jmw.co.uk

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

The conversation includes a practical walkthrough of automatic enrolment requirements, highlighting common error areas and how to avoid mistakes while meeting the expectations of The Pensions Regulator (TPR). There's also discussion on managing re-enrolment effectively.

Andy outlines what payroll teams should have in place to demonstrate compliance, the documentation that must be retained and the steps that can be taken to reduce risk ahead of any audit conducted by TPR.

The episode also focuses on the importance of maintaining open communication and strong working relationships with pension scheme providers to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and ongoing compliance.

Tune into hear practical insights to help payroll professionals strengthen processes, maintain compliance and prepare for future developments in pensions.

Glossary

ACE = the CIPP's Annual Conference and Exhibition

AI = artificial intelligence

DWP = the Department for Work and Pensions

'EE and ER' = employee and employer

FCA = Financial Conduct Authority

GDPR = General Data Protection Regulation

HMRC = HM Revenue and Customs.

PLSA = the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association,

RTI = real time information,

SSP = statutory sick pay.

Links

The CIPP's Annual Conference and Exhibition: https://www.cipp.org.uk/events/annual-conference-and-exhibition.html

The PSLA: https://www.pensionsuk.org.uk/

Pot follows person' information: https://www.pensionspolicyinstitute.org.uk/media/jkllh5ah/20200922-small-pots-working-group-guide-to-booklet-final.pdf

https://www.cipp.org.uk

The conversation explores how AI is currently being used across payroll departments to support accuracy, efficiency and compliance, as well as the opportunities emerging as technology continues to advance. Steve shares practical examples of where AI can add real value today, alongside thoughtful insight into how payroll teams can prepare for greater AI integration in the future.

A key theme throughout the episode is the importance of maintaining a human-first approach to payroll. While AI can streamline processes, enhance data analysis and reduce manual workloads, Steve explains why it will never replace the people at the heart of the pay profession. Payroll remains a people-centric function, built on trust, judgment and accountability. Qualities that technology can support, but not replicate.

Listeners will also gain practical guidance on how to responsibly and effectively leverage AI within their own payroll environments. Steve offers valuable hints and tips to help pay professionals understand where to start, what to consider when adopting AI-driven tools and how to balance innovation with governance and control.

Links

MIT: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtBw6njQRU-rwp5__7C0oIVt26ZgjG9NI

Stanford: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLoROMvodv4rNiJRchCzutFw5ItR_Z27CM

AI with Humanity: The market leading AI assistant for HR, WFM & Payroll - Zellis

Follow Zellis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zellisukltd/

https://www.cipp.org.uk

If you’ve ever felt like saving just isn’t possible, this is a must-listen. Joss shares practical, realistic tips for getting started, no matter your income, and reveals some eye-opening facts and figures on financial vulnerability in the UK.

We also explore how payroll savings work in practice and why they’re such a powerful (and often underused) tool. For pay and reward professionals, Joss explains how offering savings vehicles through payroll can drive real employee impact while demonstrating the strategic value of payroll within an organisation.

Whether you’re looking to improve your own financial resilience or strengthen your organisation’s wellbeing offering, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration.

Glossary

FSCS = Financial Services Compensation Scheme

Links

Sync-Savings website: https://www.sync-savings.com/

Sync-Savings 2026 financial wellness planner: https://www.sync-savings.com/sync-financial-wellness-planner-2026

Read Joss' article on opening up the conversation regarding financial vulnerability in the CIPP's Professional magazine: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/678606695/36/

Step Change: https://www.stepchange.org/how-we-help/debt-advice.aspx

UK Government free debt advice links: https://www.gov.uk/debt-advice

https://www.cipp.org.uk

Maria shares her career journey and offers practical advice on how to get your voice heard at C-suite level. She also opens up about a pivotal moment in her career – being told initially she couldn’t become a Partner because she wasn’t an Accountant – and how she challenged expectations to redefine what leadership in payroll can look like.

Beyond her professional achievements, this episode reveals a more personal side to Maria. She reflects on the values instilled by her parents, how her ambition has influenced her daughter and the emotional experience of watching a team member win an award after navigating an incredibly difficult period in their life.

Honest, empowering and deeply human, this conversation peels back the curtain on Maria’s story and proves that it is possible to be a mum, study while working and thrive in the world of work.

Links

Follow Maria on LinkedIn: https://url.uk.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/reBxCoYqjHyNKWT1f5HpvmFW?domain=linkedin.com

BDO website: https://url.uk.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/9WlBCpg0kCRrx6UDhjHGHkMA?domain=bdo.co.uk

https://www.cipp.org.uk

Disclaimer: "The contents of this podcast episode are for reference purposes only and may not be current as at the date of listening or viewing. They do not constitute professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. Specific professional advice about your specific circumstances should always be sought separately before taking any action based on this podcast episode. BDO LLP shall not be liable for any reliance placed on the contents of this podcast."

Max takes us inside the complex world of global payroll, breaking it down in a way that’s refreshingly relatable, comparing payroll to building Lego and even the London Underground. Along the way, he reminds us that while payroll can be demanding and complicated, it can also be creative, rewarding and fun.

Known for bringing humour and light relief to the profession, Max shares laughs, cracks a few jokes and shows the human side of payroll that often goes unseen. He also reveals what career path he might have taken if payroll hadn’t won his heart.

Whether you’re deep in global payroll or just love hearing from people who genuinely care about the profession, this episode is informative, uplifting and not to be missed.

Links

Passion For Payroll website: https://passionforpayroll.com/

The Global Payroll Manager's Playbook': https://www.amazon.com/Global-Payroll-Managers-Playbook-Definitive/dp/B0F2S9D42B

https://www.cipp.org.uk

JP joins us to share his vision for HMRC’s ambitious Transformation Roadmap, offering insight into how the organisation is evolving to build a more modern, transparent and trusted tax system. He also reflects on his own experiences of payroll, discusses the importance of co-design and explains why collaboration with the pay profession is essential to getting change right.

In a heartfelt moment, JP thanks pay professionals across the UK for the vital work they do every day, in ensuring people are paid accurately and on time, allowing them to manage their day-to-day lives.

Whether you work in payroll, tax or public service leadership, this episode offers valuable perspectives on transformation, leadership styles and the future of HMRC.

Glossary

DWP = Department for Work and Pensions

NHS = National Health Service

OBR = Office for Budget Responsibility

ERP = Enterprise resource planning

RTI = real time information

MVP = minimum viable product

AI = artificial intelligence

R&D = research and development

PPS = Principal Private Secretary

Links

HMRC's Transformation Roadmap - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/hmrc-transformation-roadmap/hmrcs-transformation-roadmap

HMRC app - https://www.gov.uk/guidance/download-the-hmrc-app

Policy Paper, 'Tax Making Principles' - https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/tax-policy-making-principles

https://www.cipp.org.uk

From legislative updates and technological change to the evolving roles found within pay teams, we explore the forces that keep pay professionals sharp, busy and always adapting. Because in payroll, nothing ever stands still. And it’s never, ever boring. And there’s certainly more to it than pushing that elusive button to get people paid.

But beyond the systems and processes, this is a podcast about people. We get to know the individuals behind the payslips, diving into their motivations, career journeys and the passions that drive them.

Join us as we pull back the curtain on the world of pay, and discover what really happen behind the button.

https://www.cipp.org.uk