Martyn Cheney BA (HONS) ChFCIPPdip, Founder at Cheney Payroll Services tells Business Matters his way of doing business.
What do you currently do?
I am the Founder of Cheney Payroll Services. As a Payroll Consultant, I work with businesses, small or large, who are looking to implement a new payroll system or improve their existing system, whether that is a full or partial rebuild, or streamlining processes, calculations and elements. I also offer an outsourced payroll solution to small and medium-sized businesses.
There are many facets to the role, with every new job being different from the last. These can include the configuration of new payroll software, advising businesses on how to get the best out of their existing payroll software by looking at the process and procedures, reporting, updating the mechanics of and existing payroll system to bring it up to date for the business needs.
What was the inspiration behind your business?
Having worked within the industry for 27 years and then suddenly being made redundant, I wanted to use my experience to offer a slightly different service to businesses. I knew that doing things a little differently would allow businesses to save both time and money.
An agent suggested that I give self-employment a go, so I accepted a six-week contract. Five years later and Cheney Payroll Services is still going strong.
What defines your way of doing business?
My values define my way of doing business. In payroll, everything is very black and white, and no middle ground despite what other parts of the business might say.
The fundamental principle is to pay people right and on time. Without pay, then the employee can’t afford to look after themselves and their families.
What do you admire?
The tenacity of payrollers to get the job done, in the face of an ever-changing landscape from both the other organisations they work for and the government with the new legislation.
Payrollers adapt, work out how to implement the new rules and make sure their employees are paid correctly and on time.
Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently?
I would have made the break sooner had the opportunity presented itself. I would have looked to create the bureau option at the same time as starting the company rather than waiting. But despite this, I am still proud to say that it’s been a successful and fun journey so far.
What advice would you give to someone starting out?
Do it. Research your market and go for it. Companies need a flexible work force who can come in deliver the requirements and then leave again.
