Steph Smith, Head of Global Mobility – Edinburgh, UK
Steph leads activpayroll’s Global Mobility and Global HR Services offering from the Edinburgh office. She supports clients across immigration, global corporate tax, global HR, payroll tax, and income tax and social security guidance for any international opportunity. She ensures organisations manage global mobility compliantly, helping them grow internationally while mitigating risk for both the business and its employees. Steph works with teams across activpayroll and LIMES to provide joined-up solutions that balance legal requirements with practical, business-focused advice, enabling clients to expand efficiently and confidently.
Q: What industry trend should organisations keep an eye on?
A: A key trend that needs close attention is hiring people in one location while they physically live and work remotely from a different country. While it may sound straightforward, it can create challenges across many areas of global mobility. I would always recommend seeking advice as early as possible. For example, even something like an employee working from another country for a few weeks can create obligations around payroll, tax, or social security that companies often overlook. When managed compliantly, global remote working offers significant benefits for both organisations and employees, including access to a wider talent pool and more flexible working arrangements. Without the right compliance measures in place, businesses risk reputational damage and limitations on their ability to grow further in those locations.
Q: What’s your go-to productivity ritual?
A: Fresh air. Sometimes a short walk is the best way to reset, refocus, and come back to a task with a clearer head. It helps me step away from emails and meetings and approach challenges with a fresh perspective.
Q: What’s one thing colleagues might be surprised to learn about your role?
A: You don’t have to love numbers to enjoy working in Global Mobility. While numbers are involved, the foundation of our work is the law, with the figures following on from that. My role combines legal understanding, practical problem-solving, and supporting people through complex international situations. It’s this blend of strategic thinking and operational advice that makes the work varied and rewarding.
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