As businesses look toward 2025, the integration of AI and automation is set to redefine the landscape of payroll and HR management. We spoke with Sheryl Steele, Director of Operations and Performance at PayCaptain, and Mason Potter, Co-founder of Grateful, to explore how emerging technologies are driving innovation in these critical areas.
From AI-powered payroll assistants to digital tronc systems ensuring fairer tip distribution, both leaders share their vision for a future where technology enhances efficiency, transparency, and employee satisfaction. Their insights reveal how AI will empower companies to streamline operations, foster trust, and create more equitable workplaces.
Sheryl Steele, Director of Operations and Performance at PayCaptain – a cloud-based payroll software solution:
“In 2025, we predict to see enhanced automation and AI integration related to payroll… Companies looking to stay ahead will increasingly adopt cutting-edge HR/Payroll technologies that leverage AI, Faster Payments, and built-in financial wellbeing features provide seamless, future-ready solutions.
“AI advancements will also empower companies to move from managed payroll services to in-house or a more collaborative approach to producing payroll. Businesses may seek greater control over their payroll processes whilst initially dipping their toe in the water with AI. Organisations hesitant about AI will begin experimenting with its potential in 2025, and this exploratory phase could translate into increased adoption and stronger market traction for AI-driven solutions.
“PayCaptain will continue to invest heavily in automation and AI capabilities. This includes introducing AI-driven personal assistants to assist payroll specialists with data entry, analysis, and error prevention”.
Mason Potter, co-founder at Grateful – tronc management and solutions:
“I’ve closely watched the transformation of the markets adoption of tronc in light of The Allocation Of Tips Act over the last couple of years, which are pivotal in managing and distributing tips fairly and transparently. In 2025, not only just with tronc but with the whole HR stack for SMEs, I predict tronc will shift further towards being a ‘people first’ initiative to drive and encourage better behaviour in the workplace. By utilising automation, leveraging AI and utilising technology to address challenges around compliance, efficiency, and employee satisfaction.
“One major evolution will be the integration of AI-powered analytics, allowing businesses to distribute tips more equitably based on hours worked, roles, and customer interactions. These advancements will not only enhance fairness but also empower HR teams with detailed insights into staff performance and morale and allowing businesses to make data driven, impartial and non-discriminatory decisions. Furthermore, as cash usage declines, digital tronc systems will be further adopted and utilised by owner operators and will eventually become the norm.
“For HR departments, these changes are transformative. Automated systems will reduce the administrative burden of manual calculations, freeing up time for strategic initiatives or for businesses owners to focus on driving their business forward. Moreover, as transparency increases, businesses will need to foster trust by actively involving staff in how tips are allocated. At Grateful, we’re committed to being at the forefront of these changes, helping organizations embrace the future of tronc with tools designed for fairness and growth”.
