National Payroll Week was celebrated in early September, recognising the contribution of payroll professionals up and down the country! These hardworking people are responsible for making sure the working population gets paid accurately and on time and contributes to the collection of £473.8 billion in income tax and National Insurance through PAYE.
We spoke to our Payroll Queen, Natalie Standen who runs Payroll for many of our clients about her career in Payroll.
I stepped into my first payroll role after completing a YTS course in secretarial skills (you might need to Google that one). It wasn’t a planned move — especially after a short-lived stint in sunroof manufacturing- I wasn’t very good at that— but it turned out to be the start of something meaningful.
Since then, I’ve worked across a mix of industries.
Each role brought its own lessons, challenges, and opportunities to grow. And with every unexpected twist, I found new ways to problem-solve, often under pressure and sometimes solo.
There’s a quiet confidence that comes with experience — not loud or showy, although I am loud📢 but steady and reassuring. It’s built over time, through trial and error, and through learning what works (and definitely what doesn’t).
I’m lucky to be in a role that offers:
🌟Space to share ideas and contribute meaningfully
🌟Access to tools that make the job smoother and more accurate
🌟Flexibility that supports life outside of work
🌟A team that collaborates and supports each other
🌟Encouragement to keep learning and growing
It’s a role that respects experience while embracing innovation — and that balance makes all the difference.
A missed payment, a last-minute change, a deduction that doesn’t look right — that’s when we’re noticed.
But behind the scenes, there’s a rhythm of care, precision, and quiet dedication that keeps everything moving.
And when things do go wrong, it’s our job to fix them — quickly, calmly, and often without anyone noticing.
What’s mattered most throughout this journey are the people.
I’ve made lifelong friends through payroll — people who’ve supported, challenged, and inspired me. Some of those friendships date all the way back to that “long, long time ago” period.
So, during National Payroll Week, I’m simply taking a moment to reflect.
To appreciate the journey.
And to acknowledge all the professionals who keep things running smoothly, often without recognition.
Coopers&Co can take care of your payroll processing, ensuring that your employees are paid correctly and on time, while also managing your PAYE and National Insurance contributions.
Book a free 30-minute call with Natalie here.
Send us an enquiry here
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