Hiring Payroll Transformation Specialists in 2025

The Best Approach to Hiring Specialists for Successful Software Implementation in 2025

Why new software?

The demand for advanced Payroll & HR software continues to grow in 2025, with businesses prioritising automation, efficiency, and global integration. The interim market has recently seen a resurgence, with one of the key focus projects for international companies being to consolidate their payroll vendors across EMEA and APAC. Previously, many businesses relied on multiple in-country payroll providers. However, advancements in payroll transformation technology have made a transition toward centralised, integrated global HR/payroll platforms or Employer of Record (EOR) services more feasible. This shift is driving an increased need for Implementation & Project Managers to support these large-scale transformation projects.

The rise of EOR services and global payroll providers has provided businesses with streamlined solutions, offering a single point of validation and control. As a result, organisations are now making strategic moves to integrate payroll systems, reduce inefficiencies, and enhance compliance.

The importance of hiring specialists

Selecting and implementing Payroll & HR software is a complex task that requires expert guidance. The implementation process, onboarding, and ensuring employee engagement are all critical components of a successful transition. Given the scope of these projects, hiring external implementation specialists and project managers is the most effective approach. Here’s why:

1. Managing increased workloads

With businesses actively investing in payroll consolidation and transformation projects, Payroll & HR teams are under immense pressure. Internal teams often lack the capacity to manage these initiatives alongside their daily responsibilities. Hiring an external consultant ensures that implementation remains a top priority without disrupting existing operations.

2. Subject Matter Expertise

The demand for Payroll Consultants to conduct deep-dive analyses of payroll functions is rising. Businesses are bringing in experts to assess inefficiencies, automate processes, and streamline operations. For example, companies with small payrolls but large payroll teams often indicate outdated, manual processes. By hiring specialists, businesses can identify and implement smarter, automated workflows that save time and resources.

3. AI & Automation in payroll

AI is becoming a key factor in payroll transformation. Businesses now seek payroll professionals who are dynamic, tech-savvy, and open to automation. While companies do not expect payroll professionals to be AI experts, they do value those who challenge existing processes and explore how technology can enhance efficiency. Payroll specialists are increasingly attending AI and automation training, recognising that these innovations are here to stay.

4. Global expansion & EOR services

For companies looking to expand internationally, EOR services offer a quick and compliant solution. Setting up payroll in new countries involves navigating complex regulations, but EOR providers can handle this process efficiently. This model is particularly attractive for startups and high-growth companies, driving further demand for implementation specialists.

Hiring strategies: IR35 & Market trends in 2025

The hiring landscape for payroll professionals has shifted significantly. The market has seen:

• Increased candidate availability:  Shortlists now include up to six qualified professionals, compared to just two or three previously, reflecting a more competitive candidate market.
• Declining day rates: While rates have dropped compared to 18-24 months ago, businesses must balance cost-saving efforts with securing experienced talent. Companies offering lower rates risk operational challenges or compliance issues by hiring less-experienced professional
• Greater acceptance of IR35 flexibility: Clients are now more open to hiring outside IR35, which allows them to access a larger pool of highly skilled contractors without restrictive compliance concerns.

The key to success: Planning your hiring approach

As payroll technology evolves and AI-driven automation becomes standard, businesses must be strategic in their hiring decisions. Whether restructuring internal teams or bringing in external specialists, planning for implementation and project support is crucial.

With an abundance of payroll transformation talent available, businesses that act quickly and offer competitive packages—whether for contractors or full-time hires—will secure the best professionals to drive successful payroll implementations in 2025.

Patrick Day, Director 

Director of our Executive Division, Patrick specialises in senior interim and contract roles. Since joining in 2008, he’s built a loyal executive-level network of payroll professionals across the UK & ROI. With extensive payroll knowledge, he offers guidance & expertise on recruitment for management BAU needs and project implementations. Connect with Patrick to discuss your payroll hiring needs.