Armstrong Watson is celebrating a double success after two members of its payroll leadership team were recognised by Reward Strategy in its prestigious Partner 75 community, representing the top 0.1% of payroll professionals in the UK.
Partner and Head of Payroll Karen Thomson, alongside Payroll Manager Lisa Carruthers, have both been named among the most influential figures in the industry for 2026. The accolade highlights an exclusive group of professionals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, influence and innovation across the payroll sector.
Karen Thomson, who was previously recognised in the Partner 50 in 2025, brings more than 30 years of experience to the role and is widely regarded as one of the UK’s leading payroll professionals. In addition to leading Armstrong Watson’s award-winning payroll service, she holds several prominent industry positions, including Chair of the Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals’ Special Interest Group representing Accountancy Payroll Bureaus and Vice Chair of the Local Government Pensions Scheme (Cumberland).
Her influence extends across multiple national forums, including HMRC policy groups, the Administrative Burdens Advisory Board, the Employment Payment Group, and both the CIOT and ICAS payroll employment tax groups.
Lisa Carruthers, who has more than 15 years’ experience in payroll, has built a strong reputation within Armstrong Watson for her technical expertise, professionalism and commitment to client service. Her inclusion in the Partner 75 reflects her growing influence within the industry and her contribution to maintaining high standards across the profession.
Speaking on the recognition, Karen Thomson said: “I am delighted to be recognised again as a member of Reward Strategy’s Partner list. It is incredibly meaningful on a personal level but also reflects the commitment of the outstanding teams, colleagues and industry peers I have had the privilege to work alongside throughout my career.
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“Payroll has never been more important to organisations and their people. As our profession continues to evolve through technology, regulation and changing workforce expectations, I remain passionate about helping to shape its future.
“I am especially proud to be recognised alongside Lisa this year. She embodies the values that make our profession so important: technical excellence, commitment to clients and a genuine passion for developing both herself and those around her. This recognition is thoroughly deserved.”
Lisa Carruthers added: “I am incredibly honoured and humbled to be recognised as a member of Reward Strategy’s Partner 75. To be included alongside Karen and so many respected professionals from across the payroll and reward industry is a privilege and something I am immensely proud of.”
