Payroll - the illegitimate love child between HR and Finance
Like a child is made from a random mix of genetics from two parents, and then a product of the values and ideas they are presented as they grow by those closest to them, a payroll professional or team are a hybrid of both finance and human resources (amongst other things). Likewise, payroll professionals often become collateral damage when the finance and HR teams don’t get along.
This makes it difficult for payroll leaders and teams to experience the success they should as they end up spending more of their precious time taking on the role of peace maker or diplomat between the two areas, rather than being able to focus on adding value to the whole business.
So, as you would probably expect, when they put aside their differences and focus on what is in the best interests of their payroll function and how each can contribute to the support and ultimate success of the team, that is when they are able to truly develop an amazing payroll service.
One day, I too would like to see the payroll profession ‘grow up’ and mature into a well-rounded, resilient and mature adult that no longer needs to rely on ‘Mum & Dad’ for constant help, but rather be an ongoing source of support that payroll can turn to when they need it.
For now, we need both our parents (as well as all our Aunts and Uncles in the Information Technology, Health & Safety, Project Management and Operational space) to all get along and support us while we develop and mature. After all, it takes a village, right?
Want to read more about the debate on whether payroll should report to Finance or HR? Read our take on this discussion here.
Gemma McDonnell-Mossop
Independent Payroll Consultant
If you would like to read more about payroll in Australia, then keep and eye out for more by following Payroll Edge Consulting. To contact us and arrange a free one hour consultation on whether we can help you reconcile your payroll family, contact us at info@payrolledge.com.au