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Azets has revealed that its director of payroll services, Stephen Abbotts, has received the Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals’ (CIPP) 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award.
The award recognises Abbotts’ 50-year career in payroll, during which he has helped shape industry standards, mentor professionals and expand Azets’ payroll operations.
Under his leadership, the firm’s payroll team has grown to more than 200 people, generating almost £20m in annual revenue.
Abbotts said: “It’s an honour to receive this award. I have to acknowledge the massive amount of support I have received over the years from the exceptional teams I have worked with, and this recognition is as much about them as it is about me. Together, we’ve achieved a great deal for clients and for the profession as a whole, and I feel privileged to have been part of that journey.”
Peter Gallanagh, chief executive officer at Azets UK, said: “We are incredibly proud of Stephen and delighted to see his dedication recognised. His passion for payroll, his relentless commitment to excellent client service, and his generosity in mentoring colleagues have made him an outstanding leader and role model.”
Clare Warrington, chair of the CIPP, added: “It was such a pleasure to hand Stephen his accolade on behalf of the CIPP. Stephen has demonstrated unwavering dedication, leadership, and innovation to the payroll profession over his career. His commitment to elevating standards, mentoring others, and driving excellence has made a huge impact.”
Azets’ payroll services team was also shortlisted in three other categories at this year’s CIPP Annual Excellence Awards: Payroll Service Provider of the Year, Project of the Year, and Project of the Year in conjunction with Blick Rothenberg, part of the Azets Group.
