Navigating organizations through the challenges associated with an increasingly global workforce would be an arduous task for even the most seasoned global payroll professional.

In his presentation, “Debunking Global Payroll Myths: The Reality of Global Country Payroll,” Richard Limpkin, Vice President, Multi-Country Payroll Solutions at UKG, shared his personal experience of guiding organizations through their journey into an increasingly global workforce.

During his presentation, Limpkin explained what is was like to overcome some of the biggest challenges during this process, and what other global payroll professionals could expect when implementing a new global payroll strategy.

“Global payroll solutions provide your organization with access to quality global talent, increased scalability, and the opportunity for flexible and customization,” he said.

Still, there are other challenges in multi-country payroll, with the greatest being the seemingly ever-changing payroll legislation for each country.

“The rate of change in legislation is the biggest trend in global payroll, but you don’t need to be an expert in every country,” he said.

Limpkin advised to start with good data and utilize the organization’s in-house experts and outsourced providers to keep up with data and compliance, which will enable you to provide the best payroll solution for your employees.

One of the myths Limpkin shared with attendees was, of course, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and the notion that this will ultimately replace payroll professionals in the working world. Limpkin explained that AI is a tool that enables organizations to streamline payroll processes and allows payroll professionals to enhance and diversify their skillset.

“A key takeaway to take to work is to think about one task you could use AI for, try it and share it with your team,” he said. “AI is not something to fear it is something to embrace!”

Workshop attendees said the processes that Limpkin shared helped erase many of the myths associated with global payroll, and help and helped to simplify some of the processes enabling them to be more successful at their organizations.

“Richard’s session is going to help me break down multi-country compliance into small, manageable chunks,” said Kathleen Piggford, CPP, Payroll Manager for Sotera Health Service LLC. “I don’t need to be an expert in every country, just focus on what’s important!”

Luke Stockbridge is a global payroll consultant with JGA Recruitment