Payroll has long been treated as a back-office necessity: essential, but not something that shapes culture or drives engagement. This no longer stands.
The CIPD has unveiled its HR30 list for 2026, recognising senior people leaders whose work has delivered measurable impact across organisations and workforces.
Are UK organisations doing a good enough job of appreciating their workers? Probably not, and yet there is now compelling evidence which proves that staff appreciation is not just a ‘fluffy HR thing’, but profoundly impacts the entire organisation, creating a competitive advantage.
Women in UK financial services earn significantly less than men, with a widening pay gap and lower overall compensation raising concerns for employers.