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Case studies: How Payroll and HR Shared Services drive transformational change?

by | Aug 21, 2025

AI | Payroll | Service Delivery
Home 5 Payroll 5 Case studies: How Payroll and HR Shared Services drive transformational change?

Case studies: How Payroll and HR Shared Services drive transformational change?

What does HR Shared Services and Payroll transformation look like in practice?

That’s the question at the centre of the latest HR on the Offensive podcast, where Chris Howard and Dawn Goodall from LACE Partners were joined by Clare Phillips, Global Head of HR Services at IFS, and Michael Serbrock, Head of Change at Lloyds Banking Group.

Clare and Michael recently spoke to our HRSS and Payroll networks about their transformation journeys, which was so insightful we wanted to share it with you!

Case studies in transformation

Clare and Michael have both been undertaking large transformation projects, in the HR and Payroll space respectively. Listen to this podcast to hear how they managed the heavy lifting involved in reshaping legacy processes into globally scalable, technology-enabled models.

Clare shares how IFS transitioned from fragmented, country-based HR support to a unified shared services approach, stressing the value of cultural awareness and process simplification. Mike from Lloyds Banking Group unpacks the learnings from his significant payroll transformation where amongst other activities his team streamlined six payroll systems into one.

What are the practical sides of AI adoption?

Both organisations are testing how generative AI and automation can ease employee queries while freeing team members to focus on more strategic work. Our guests discuss their insights from this journey and share their views on success; for example the importance of rigorous testing and a clean knowledge base.

Clare and Michael both highlighted the importance of strong self-service capabilities which AI can help enable. However, they underline how there needs to be a focus on the human element, by building trust and ensuring a seamless experience. If you are struggling with AI adoption into your organisation our TRUSTED framework is a great guide on how you can ensure a successful adoption.

Transformation in HR and payroll isn’t only about implementing the latest tools. It’s about designing smarter operating models and nurturing skills for the future. This podcast provides insight into what these functions can become when technology and people are aligned to deliver better experiences across the business.

Join our HRSS and Payroll networks to join our ongoing conversations about the future of these functions and connect with peers facing similar challenges.

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