Claire McNamee's PayStream Journey

Claire joined the PayStream Payroll team in 2014 as a Payroll Administrator, and since then she has worked her way up the ranks to become a Payroll Expert. We wanted to learn more about Claire’s journey at PayStream and what led her to join.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what brought you to PayStream?

I’m the eldest of five, from a small rural village in Ireland where Deliveroo and Uber still haven’t made it. There aren’t many strangers, as most people know who everyone is, a short walk to the local bakery will probably see you bump into at least one of my relatives - one of my first jobs was working in my aunt’s chip shop!

I was eager to venture further afield, so I went to university at Salford, where I met my now husband Callum, and decided to stay in Manchester. He started working at PayStream and  enjoyed it so much, he encouraged me to apply when there were some vacancies. That was over 11 years ago and we’re still both here, so his referral bonus was well deserved! 

What is a typical day at PayStream like?

A typical day for me now is very different to what it once was as a Payroll Administrator. Having been promoted to a Payroll Technician, then a Payroll Senior (responsible for a team), I’m now a Payroll Expert. I lead the training and recruitment within the Payroll Department – a change from my first responsibilities all those years ago!

Instead of processing payments, I review payments before the funds leave our account looking out for any anomalies or signs that amendments may be required with the intention to rectify prior to the payment being completed. 

How does PayStream compare to your previous workplaces?

My previous role was in retail on a 4.75 hr contract which meant I needed to do overtime each week sometimes even night shifts, and the available hours would fluctuate which made it difficult to make plans in advance. I much prefer having the structure of fixed full-time hours. 

At my last job I also didn’t feel like I had any authority to voice any concerns I had. Contrary to at PayStream, where the Senior Management team are visible and approachable. The ‘Great Place To Work’ survey also provides an excellent opportunity to all staff to give their honest feedback. It’s really great to see that this wasn’t a tick box exercise and company wide improvements have been actioned following the feedback that staff suggested. 

What three words would you use to describe PayStream?

Compliant, Pro-Active, Quality-Focused.

What do you enjoy most about working at PayStream?

When recruiting we look for certain characteristics and qualities and I think we’ve done a great job at getting the right people on board. Being surrounded by others that are personable, willing to help and go that extra mile fosters a positive working environment which makes it an enjoyable place to work each day. There’s always something new to learn and it’s good to know that there are people available who are willing to assist if needed, or point you in the right direction to enable you to work it out for yourself.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I am the proud owner of two adopted tortoises, Tommy and Rosie, which coincidentally happens to be the name of my brother and one of my sisters – it was a sign I had to get them.

What are your favourite things to do outside of work?

My husband and I travelled around South East Asia & Australia for 10 months which was amazing. We now have a motorhome, so forage for mushrooms on hikes in the Peak and Lake district when we have a free weekend. He also DJs, so when he’s on the decks I’ll most likely be on the dancefloor.