Staffing
Three ways to deliver it, and clear owners at every step.
MODEL 1 · ADVISE
Advise
The client runs the platform. You review outputs and advise under an agreed scope.
- Review payroll-to-GL output, exceptions and reporting
- Recommend process and control changes
- Most firms spend under 2 hours a month per client
MODEL 2 · OPERATE
Operate
Your firm runs specified payroll or finance tasks with approved access, review steps, coverage and sign-off.
- Name who enters, approves and submits each change
- Plan on 2 to 4 hours a month per client for biweekly payroll
- Track your own time before setting a staffing ratio
MODEL 3 · REFER
Refer and coordinate
A platform and the client handle implementation and operation. You stay involved only as the engagement says.
- Make the handoff explicit
- Keep a defined advisory scope, so you keep the relationship
- Most platforms pay a referral bonus or revenue share
WHO DOES WHAT Every office doesn't need a payroll specialist. A national or regional bench can support local teams if capacity and escalation are defined.
National service-line owner Service menu, training, approved templates, partner governance, quality controls.
Market or industry CAS lead Client fit, commercial ownership, staffing, escalation.
CAS manager Kickoff, review cadence, recommendations, client approvals.
Staff or senior accountant Data checks, payroll-to-GL review, reporting, issue log.
Specialist Decisions beyond CAS scope: employment, tax, benefits or security.
Client sponsor Business decisions, timely data, approvals and internal owners.
Playbooks are educational and not tax or legal advice.