Bridge Chartered Accountants has been named Payroll Team of the Year at the Irish Accountancy Awards 2026, recognised for exceptional expertise in managing complex healthcare payroll and delivering operational excellence under strict regulatory conditions.

The team's specialisation in healthcare payroll demonstrates how deep technical knowledge, combined with precision and collaborative practice, enables firms to manage high-complexity requirements. Bridge Chartered Accountants' work navigating Department of Health pay awards, pension management, and backdated adjustments reflects the intricate regulatory environment within which payroll functions operate, particularly in public sector and healthcare contexts.

Judges commended the team's approach: "Our judges were struck by Bridge Chartered Accountants' exceptional expertise in managing complex healthcare payroll, particularly in navigating Department of Health pay awards, pensions, and backdated adjustments. The team's precision, collaboration, and error-reduction focus showcase operational excellence under strict regulatory conditions.

The submission highlighted solid innovation and demonstrated the firm's commitment to continuous improvement. With well-presented sample projects and clear data-driven results, this entry sets a strong standard in payroll management."

The award reflects evolving standards within the Irish Accountancy Awards, where payroll teams are increasingly distinguished by their capacity to combine technical rigour with strategic insight, managing complex regulatory requirements while driving operational efficiency and service quality. Bridge Chartered Accountants' recognition demonstrates how specialisation, continuous improvement, and data-driven practice deliver competitive advantage in a function critical to organisational compliance and employee satisfaction.

The win establishes a benchmark for payroll excellence as the profession looks ahead to the 2027 awards cycle, where teams will continue advancing standards in precision, innovation, and regulatory compliance within this essential accounting discipline.

Visit the official Irish Accountancy Awards website to explore the full list of 2026 winners and subscribe to the newsletter for exclusive insights and continuing coverage from Ireland's accounting sector.