HR and payroll functions in Europe are under increasing pressure from talent shortages, rising costs, regulation and AI. Drawing on insights from the 2026 HR and Payroll Pulse, this blog examines the ten most pressing HR challenges organisations face in 2026.

Workforce planning has become a priority for European organisations facing rising costs, talent shortages and increasing automation. Drawing on insights from the 2026 HR and Payroll Pulse, this blog examines the most urgent workforce planning trends in 2026 and where HR teams remain underprepared.

Employee satisfaction in 2026 is closely linked to how organisations approach reward, recognition and financial well-being. Drawing on findings from the 2026 HR and Payroll Pulse, this blog explores what employees across Europe value most and where gaps remain. It outlines how clearer, more flexible reward strategies can better support people at work.

AI adoption in the European workplace is accelerating, but many organisations struggle to turn experimentation into lasting impact. In this interview, Professor Jason Pridmore shares insights on how AI is reshaping HR, payroll and the nature of work, drawing on findings from the 2026 HR and Payroll Pulse. The article explores trust, skills and the role HR can play in guiding responsible AI use

Payroll is becoming more closely connected to how organisations manage people, data and trust. This blog explores five key payroll trends for 2026, drawing on insights from the 2026 HR and Payroll Pulse and SD Worx expertise. It outlines what HR teams across Europe should consider when shaping future payroll strategies.

Results may be visible. Culture is what people feel.

High performance means very little if people cannot sustain it.

Spotting talent is one thing. Helping it grow, and keeping people engaged along the way, is where the real work begins.

Leadership sounds good on paper. It gets a lot more real when decisions need to be made under pressure.

Setbacks rarely arrive at a convenient time. So what do strong teams do when plan A disappears?

What does it really take to build a high-performing team when pressure rises and the plan changes mid-race?

The EU Pay Transparency Directive is reshaping how organisations approach pay, fairness and transparency. Watch this on-demand webinar to understand what’s changing and how to prepare with confidence.