What did we learn at the IPASS conference

On May 16th, payroll professionals from across Ireland gathered at the Croke Park Conference Centre for the IPASS Annual Payroll Conference & Exhibition 2025. As always, the event delivered timely insights, regulatory updates, and industry-wide collaboration. Bright was proud to attend alongside peers, and we’re excited to share our top takeaways from this year’s event.

1. AI is changing the payroll game

One of the standout sessions at this year’s conference was the expert panel on artificial intelligence in payroll. The discussion brought together an experienced and diverse group of voices: Steve Elcock from Zellis, Alex Huerta from Soaring Falcon, our own Euan Matthews from Bright, and Dera McLoughlin from Forvis Mazars. Each speaker brought a unique lens, from product development to consultancy, offering a well rounded view of where AI is headed in our industry.

There was no doubt that AI is already making a significant impact, streamlining tasks, accelerating data processing, and helping identify anomalies faster than ever before. But the panel also discussed something equally important. AI is a tool, not a replacement and human judgment remains essential, particularly when it comes to interpreting legislation and communicating with employees in a way that feels clear and empathetic. Payroll operates in a space where accuracy and trust are non-negotiable

Euan Matthews shared how Bright approaches AI with this mindset, building smart functionality that removes admin burden while keeping users firmly in control. In BrightPay, that means developing features that streamline processes without compromising visibility or flexibility. It’s not about chasing automation for its own sake, but about making sure technology genuinely supports the day-to-day needs of payroll professionals.

2. Compliance is becoming more dynamic

One of the dominant themes across these sessions was the growing emphasis on real time reporting. Regulators are placing increased importance on timely, accurate data, whether it’s PAYE submissions, statutory returns, or employee related disclosures. The expectation is shifting from annual or quarterly updates to live, event driven reporting.

There was also discussion around the move toward more automated compliance tools, particularly those that reduce manual intervention and flag discrepancies early. While this brings efficiency, it also raises the bar for accuracy and responsiveness. Payroll teams are expected not only to comply, but to do so quickly and consistently

3. Gender pay gap reporting is here to stay

Eimear Byrne of SD Worx Ireland delivered one of the most engaging breakout sessions of the day, focusing on Gender Pay Gap reporting through the lens of payroll. It’s clear that gender pay gap reporting is no longer simply a compliance exercise. It’s becoming a strategic priority for organisations that are serious about building transparency, equity, and trust within their workforce.

Eimear’s session highlighted the growing expectations placed on payroll data. From how roles are structured to how bonuses are awarded, payroll systems are sitting on a goldmine of information that, when surfaced and analysed effectively, can inform real cultural change.

This growing emphasis on transparency reinforces the need for payroll software that goes beyond the payslip

4. The value of community can’t be overstated

One of the most energising parts of the IPASS Conference wasn’t just the keynotes or panels, it was the conversations happening between sessions, in hallways, and over coffee. Payroll professionals from all sectors came together to share real world challenges, offer solutions, and swap stories from the front lines of a fast changing field.

It’s a powerful reminder that payroll isn’t just about numbers and regulations, it’s about people. It’s a discipline built on precision, but also on empathy, trust, and collaboration. For us at Bright, being part of this event was about more than showcasing technology, it was about listening, learning, and showing up for the professionals who make up this community.

Looking ahead

We left the IPASS Conference with a renewed sense of purpose, to build better tools that reflect the realities of modern payroll, to stay ahead of regulatory shifts, and to continue championing the professionals who make it all happen.

If you’re exploring better ways to manage payroll or want to see how Bright can support your goals, we’d be happy to show you around.

This content may have been developed with the assistance of AI tools. Content is reviewed by a member of the Bright team before publication. Guidance on legislation can be obtained from your industry body.