From payroll assistant to HR manager: Astrid’s story

Insights from Astrid Hungerford, HR Manager

050825 - Effective - Newport, Wales, United Kingdom

Since joining Kilsby Williams in December 2020, I have had the opportunity to take on new challenges and develop professionally. Reaching my five-year milestone with the firm has been a great opportunity to reflect on how my role and the company have grown during that time.

My starting point

Before joining the firm, I worked in industry for just under three years as part of a group company which specialised in ATM deployment, cash management and innovative banking solutions, where I supported HR across two of the businesses and completed payroll for the wider group.

When I joined Kilsby Williams as Senior Payroll Assistant, I was keen to build on this experience and continue my career journey. From the very start of my time with the firm, I felt supported, and it was clear there was a genuine investment in my development. I now have over seven years of combined experience across the HR and payroll sectors.

Progressing to HR Manager

The time has flown by during my time at Kilsby Williams and throughout the firm has supported my professional progress, allowing me to achieve my CIPP Foundation Degree in Payroll Management, CIPD Foundation Certificate in People Practice and work towards my CIPD Associate Diploma in People Management. This continued development led to my promotion to HR Manager, a role that allows me to combine my payroll background with people management.

As HR manager, I oversee the full employee lifecycle, from recruitment and onboarding to performance management and professional development. My role ensures our HR strategy aligns with the firm’s growth while ensuring full compliance with employment law. I also maintain a technical role, managing select internal payroll and a portfolio of client payrolls. Beyond this, I lead our firm events, wellbeing initiatives and internal marketing, all of which focus on strengthening our culture and encouraging engagement.

My next steps

This role has already been an incredible journey of learning, growth and making a positive impact on our people and culture. I am pleased with my progression and grateful for the investment that has enabled me to achieve my professional qualifications.

As the firm continues to grow, I am excited to develop my skills further and support our people. I am proud to be part of a team that values collaboration, innovation and wellbeing, and I look forward to contributing to its ongoing success throughout 2026.