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The Executive Summit, designed to address mutual challenges and emerging trends in payroll, allowed for the sharing of actionable insights. Linda Obertin, CPP, Global Payroll Leader, Hilton Worldwide, (pictured above, left; see also below) introduced the Summit and guided the day’s agenda, which was held in tandem with the 43rd Annual Payroll Congress. Program attendees joined Payroll Congress for the Future of Work and Pay General Session. Futurist John Sanei’s standout keynote, “AI’s Impact on the Workplace: Challenges and Opportunities,” sparked dialogue in later discussions.

Morning Highlights: Building the Future of Payroll

The Summit’s first panel, “Building for the Future: Designing Payroll Service and Structure Models,” was moderated by Nadia Camarena, CPP, Director, Global Payroll Operations at Netflix, and featured panelists Don Amoruso, Manager, Business Consulting Solutions at Grant Thornton LLP; Wendy Muirhead, Founding Partner at WH People; and De Ann Williams-Doonan, CPP, Executive Director, Global Payroll Services at Analog Devices. Discussions revolved around global payroll service models, technology, and automation—including the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and innovations in payroll service delivery models. Specific topics included enhanced usability of vendor payroll reports, challenges in compliance, optimizing cost efficiency, and ensuring scalability.

“The insights on how businesses are adapting within their environments were compelling,” noted Muirhead, underscoring the value of these conversations. Muirhead expressed it was not surprising that the question of earned wage access (EWA) emerged during a Q&A. The emphasis on openness reflects the Summit organizers’ commitment to relevance for payroll leaders worldwide.

“Audience questions not only enhanced the session but also identified areas where future summits could delve deeper with the right experts in the room,” said Muirhead.

Co-panelist Williams-Doonan shared her enthusiasm for the discussions, particularly around service models. Upskilling payroll teams was noted as a necessary avenue to navigate future disruption with confidence.

“This year’s focus on automation and new service ‘wrappers’ was fascinating,” she said. “We also explored AI’s potential to harness data for predicting future business needs, a capability that could significantly impact payroll’s strategic role.”

No panel on payroll is ever complete without a discussion on compliance. Strong governance and local expertise were highlighted as critical success factors.

Reminder: Your Presence is Your Power

Pegine, an Executive Leadership Coach and humorist familiar to past Payroll Congress attendees, provided an executive-level interlude on leadership style, where she spoke about the presence leaders should embody to enhance communication and project confidence, authority, and influence. Her bottom line: Your presence is your power.

Afternoon Focus: Digital Transformation in Payroll

The afternoon luncheon session shifted focus to “Digital Transformation: Impact on Payroll and Business Strategy,” led by Mary Holland, CPP, Global Payroll Advisor. Panelists Mark Bradley, Partner at EY, and Jay Conforti, Managing Director at KPMG, shared insights on how emerging technologies are reshaping payroll processes. Attendees were urged to be “change champions.”

Holland explained, “Payroll’s transformation into a strategic function is being driven by intelligent automation, modernization of infrastructure, and the development of new skillsets. These changes position payroll leaders to play a vital role in shaping the future of work.”

Networking, Collaborative Learning

Attendees valued the Summit’s interactive format, with the opportunity to engage directly with peers and thought leaders. Max van der Klis-Busink, MCIPP, RPP, Owner of Passion For Payroll and Vice President of Global Strategy on PayrollOrg’s Board of Directors, described the event as a platform for actionable insights.

“Being in the room with the most inspiring global payroll leaders fosters an exchange of best practices that’s vital for staying ahead of the curve,” Klis-Busink said.
Strada sponsors Sarah Baxter, Senior Director of Advisory Services, and Lynn Morgan, Senior Vice President, highlighted the Summit’s ability to “foster collaboration across the payroll ecosystem,” adding that Strada’s sponsorship reflects its commitment to driving growth and problem-solving in the industry.

Looking Forward: A Launchpad for Innovation

At the conclusion of the Executive Summit, attendees were guided to the Payroll Congress Expo to join the Global Payroll Reception and learn more about PayrollOrg’s global initiatives. Attendees could explore the Expo’s payroll solutions, go to the cocktail reception and dinner, and enjoy FÊTE! – the Payroll Congress party. The Summit promises to become a benchmark for payroll leaders around the world with its focus on community-building, honest dialogue, and actionable takeaways.

Frank J. Mendelson is the Acquisitions Editor for PayrollOrg.

Hear from first-time attendees what the Executive Summit means.