Leeds City Council transforms payroll for 25,000 employees with MHR

Leeds City Council, one of the largest local authorities in the UK, has taken a monumental step in its digital transformation journey by implementing MHR’s HR and Payroll system.
Serving over 800,000 residents and managing payroll for 25,000 employees, the council’s forward-thinking approach has revolutionised the way it operates, setting a new standard for local government.
The council’s digital transformation was the catalyst for this change, addressing critical challenges to improve efficiency and innovation. By adopting MHR’s technology, Leeds City Council has simplified its technology stack, making it easier and faster to manage processes across departments, significantly reducing workload pressures. The system empowers employees and managers alike with self-service capabilities, robust analytics, and enhanced decision-making tools, ensuring they have the insights they need, when they need them.
One of the most impactful outcomes of this transformation was bridging the digital divide. Previously, 5,000 staff members lacked digital identities and access to essential functionality. The new system has connected these employees, fostering greater inclusion and accessibility across the organisation. Furthermore, the seamless integration of HR and Payroll with Finance and Procurement now provides “one version of the truth,” ensuring consistency, transparency, and smarter financial management.
This achievement underscores the strength of collaboration between Leeds City Council and MHR. Over two years, their shared commitment to innovation and excellence ensured the successful go-live of a system capable of meeting the needs of one of the UK’s largest public sector employers.
The leaders of both organisations have proudly reflected on this success. Nick Felton, MHR Chief Sales Officer, remarked, "The successful go-live of Leeds City Council is a proud moment... reflecting incredible teamwork, innovation, and commitment from both sides."
Andy Dodman, Leeds City Council’s Chief HR Officer, added, "The introduction of MHR's solutions has been transformational for the council... Together, we’ve achieved something exceptional."
This collaboration not only highlights MHR’s reputation as a leader in HR and payroll solutions but also showcases Leeds City Council’s dedication to driving progress through digital transformation. Their joint effort stands as a trailblazing example of what is possible when innovation meets collaboration, raising the bar for local government organisations nationwide.