Why Payroll Events Still Matter

July 2, 2025

Insight, Connection & Community

Despite the abundance of online content and hybrid learning, attending live payroll events remains invaluable. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out, being in the room offers perspective, energy, and sharp practical insights that virtual sessions simply can’t replicate.

Spotlight on Payroll Live North

Taking place next week at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester, this event is packed with sessions that empower payroll professionals across career stages. Here are a few highlights I’m especially looking forward to:

Dawn Baxter & Panel: “Membership at Every Stage”
Drawing on my own journey—from student through Diploma to Fellow then Chartered Fellow—I’m pleased to see a conversation that highlights the importance of lifelong learning, structured career pathways, and the value of CPD (Continuing Professional Development) at every level.
AI in Payroll: Reshaping Roles & Upskilling
With AI transforming our industry, this session is a must. It’s vital we stay ahead by understanding how these tools impact payroll operations—and what new skills we need to develop to remain relevant and valuable.
Recruiting the Next Generation
Succession matters. As we see more senior professionals stepping back or retiring, building a pipeline of payroll talent becomes business-critical. This session explores how to attract, develop, and retain the next wave of professionals.
CIPP Leadership Payroll Management Diploma (L5)
A major step forward for those aiming for senior payroll roles. I’m excited to hear more about this new offering from Joanne Leather and how it fits within a wider framework of CPD and leadership development.
Compliance & Global Payroll Sessions
These topics are evolving constantly, and staying compliant means staying informed. Sessions like these are a great way to refresh knowledge and learn new approaches.

There’s also a strong exhibitor line-up. Whether you’re actively reviewing providers or just doing some future-proofing, it’s smart to explore what’s out there—especially when planning transformations or supporting strategic procurement decisions.

If you’re planning to attend, there’s still time to book—and it’s well worth the investment.

Looking Ahead to ACE in October

Make sure you’ve got the CIPP’s Annual Conference and Exhibition (ACE) in your diary—it’s the flagship event in the payroll calendar.

Inspiring keynote speakers and thought-provoking breakout sessions
A packed exhibition hall with technology, training, and support services
A show-stopping awards gala hosted by Tom Allen

Whether you’re learning, networking, celebrating—or all three—ACE is where the payroll profession gathers to reflect, recognise, and recharge.

Why These Events Still Matter

Lifelong Learning: Structured CPD, emerging topics, and practical tools you can use right away
Career Growth: See how others have progressed, and explore new routes for your own development
Connection: Build a community of like-minded professionals who get what you do
Reputation: Keep up with what’s happening in the industry so you’re always one step ahead
Confidence: Nothing beats that buzz of hearing “you’re doing it right” — or learning how to improve

If you’re attending Payroll Live, do come and say hello! Whether you’re exploring future opportunities, tackling current challenges, or just want to chat about the industry—we’re in for a day of learning, energy, and connection.

And if you’re ACE-bound in October? I might see you on the dance floor!