Everyone wants true end-to-end ownership; few organisations actually achieve it. Faced with the same pressures of cost, complexity, and transformation, GPOs must deliver results without clear lines of authority. So why do some succeed while others stall? In this high-energy conversation, two GPOs from the different functions compare how they navigate similar challenges around governance gaps, stakeholder tensions, and leadership constraints, whilst achieving different outcomes. 

• Clarify what real end-to-end ownership looks like by examining leadership mandates and decision rights

• Achieve stronger outcomes by applying governance models suited to your context

• Influence complex stakeholders by tailoring engagement strategies to your process landscape

• Move from coordinator to accountable leader by leveraging authority and sponsorship effectively

Global payroll in 2026 faces unprecedented challenges: evolving European regulations, multi-country workforce complexity, and legacy systems that can’t scale. Companies must modernise payroll processes, centralise operations, and adopt digital platforms to stay compliant, reduce risk, and improve efficiency. This panel brings together GBS leaders to explore practical strategies, share lessons learned, and discuss how payroll can become a strategic, value-driving function across the enterprise.

• Ensure compliance with European regulations by centralising reporting and standardising data processes

• Reduce operational risk by integrating payroll with HR and finance systems

• Leverage payroll data for strategic insights by building analytics-driven processes