In our latest Meet the Team interview, we’re discovering more about our Director of Payroll, Chloe Hughes. Chloe joined our Chesterfield office in October 2022, having worked in payroll for more than 20 years. Read on to find out what she enjoys most about working at BHP, her proudest achievement, hobbies and lots more.
What attracted you to BHP?
I was attracted to BHP by how people-focused the firm is, for both clients and employees alike. While obviously our clients are of huge importance to us, BHP prides itself on ensuring all staff are supported both professionally and personally, as shown by the recent Great Places to Work survey success.
Have you had any previous roles before joining the firm?
I started my payroll career working for a large catering group as a trainee payroll officer in a team of 70 before they relocated to Birmingham from Stockport. I then moved to Nottingham and worked for a small firm of accountants for over 13 years, the majority of the time in a stand alone role until the client base grew, meaning I had someone join my team. I then moved to a larger firm of accountants as Head of Payroll and was there for almost seven years, managing a team of seven.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love how varied it is – no two days are the same in a payroll bureau. Payroll is hugely complex and very much underestimated in terms of what goes on behind the scenes to get everyone paid, and I am very passionate about ensuring an outstanding service is delivered to all of our clients.
What is your proudest moment in your career so far?
Completing my CIPP foundation degree while working and having two young children. It was very challenging but extremely rewarding once finished!
Where did you grow up/go to school/university?
I grew up in Cheshire in a village called Holmes Chapel and went to the local comprehensive school all the way through to A-levels.
What are your hobbies?
I like to watch a variety of sports, which is a good job as I have two sports mad sons! For my sins, I am an Everton fan, which has been extremely painful throughout my 35+ years of supporting them! As a family, we support Leicester Tigers so that has been much more enjoyable over the last couple of seasons, and we were lucky enough to watch them at Twickenham winning the Premiership trophy last year. I also enjoy playing netball and play in Nottingham every Monday evening.
Do you have any hidden talents?
It’s not really a talent but I can juggle. Well, for a short period I can!
What might surprise people to learn about you?
When I was 19, I joined Cheshire Police as a Special Constable. My first shift on duty involved a drugs raid and a high speed pursuit, so it was a challenging introduction – especially considering the limited training provided at that time. I found it quite a tough initiation!
Where is the best place you have ever visited and why?
My favourite place is Boulders Beach near Cape Town in South Africa. I absolutely love penguins so it was a dream to go there.
