Who I Help

SMEs and owner-managed businesses. Hospitality. Construction. Nursing Homes. Larger organisations across a range of sectors.

How I Help

Payroll processing and review. Payroll compliance. Revenue audit support. Team workflow management. Client payroll consultancy. Payroll technology and automation.

“Get the detail right, make it simple for the client.”

Michelle Lynch is a Payroll Director at AAB, based in Cork, where she leads the payroll function. With 11 years in the role, Michelle manages the workflow for her team, reviews payrolls, and works closely with clients to understand their needs and resolve any payroll-related issues. She is known for balancing accurate, on-time delivery with strong client relationships, and for bringing calm, practical problem-solving to a part of the business where getting the detail right really matters.

Sectors/Support

SMEs. Hospitality. Construction. Nursing Homes.

No Two Weeks the Same

I manage the workflow for my two team members, making sure payrolls are processed accurately and on time, while also reviewing payrolls and supporting the team with any queries or challenges that arise. I also spend time consulting with clients, understanding their needs and helping to resolve any payroll-related issues. A big part of my role is balancing the day-to-day delivery with maintaining strong client relationships and making sure the team has the support they need.

Where People Meet Precision

I enjoy working in an area where accuracy, organisation and problem-solving are really important, but where there is also a strong people element. Payroll is a vital part of any business, and I like knowing that the work we do has a direct impact on both our clients and their employees. Over time, I’ve also really enjoyed taking on more responsibility, developing my knowledge and supporting others within the team, which naturally led me towards management.

My experience has given me a strong understanding of payroll processes and the importance of getting the detail right. I’m organised, approachable and comfortable dealing with queries and solving problems, which means I can help clients navigate payroll issues with confidence. I also understand that every client is different, so I focus on listening to what they need and providing practical solutions that work for their business.

Staying Calm Under Pressure

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of staying calm and solution-focused when things don’t go to plan. Payroll can be time-sensitive and there can be pressure when an issue arises, so I’ve learned to step back, understand the problem, prioritise what needs to be done and work through it methodically. That approach has helped me become more confident in managing challenges and supporting both clients and my team.

Built on Consistency

Communication is key to building a strong relationship with a new client. I make sure I understand the client, their business and what is important to them, rather than simply focusing on the payroll itself. Being approachable and keeping communication clear and straightforward helps build trust, particularly when dealing with something as important and time-sensitive as payroll.

The strongest client relationships I’ve built have come from being consistent and reliable. When clients know they can come to you with a question or an issue and that you’ll listen, understand it and work with them to find a solution, that builds trust over time. Being responsive, honest and approachable makes a real difference, particularly when there are challenges to overcome. The most satisfying part of working with clients is being able to take something that may be causing them stress or uncertainty and turn it into a clear, practical solution.

A Team You Can Rely On

What stands out most to me as the most rewarding aspect of being part of both my team and the wider AAB organisation is the people and the opportunity to work together. I enjoy supporting my team, sharing knowledge and seeing people develop in their roles. Being part of a wider organisation also means there is always an opportunity to learn from colleagues with different areas of expertise and to provide clients with a broader level of support.

A recent example that stands out is a client I supported through a Revenue Audit query that required us to look closely at the circumstances, identify the cause and work through the appropriate solution. By keeping communication clear and focusing on the practical steps, we were able to resolve the issue and give the client reassurance. Being told that a client feels they can rely on me is probably the greatest compliment I have received and knowing that they trust me to deal with their payroll accurately is very rewarding.

More Than Processing Salaries

One misconception I’d love to clear up is that payroll is simply about processing salaries. There is much more to it than that. Payroll involves legislation, calculations, deadlines, employee information, systems and client communication, all of which need to come together accurately. It’s a role where attention to detail and problem-solving are just as important as technical knowledge, particularly given how frequently legislation, deadlines and requirements change.

My key strengths are organisation, attention to detail and reliability. I’m also approachable and enjoy helping people, whether that’s a client who needs support or a team member who has a question. Looking ahead, I’m particularly interested in continuing to develop my knowledge of payroll technology and automation, so that we can spend more time adding value for clients, and I’m keen to keep developing my leadership skills and supporting the growth of my team.