As XpertHR's Pay and Benefits Editor, my role includes responsibility for the pay and reward content of XpertHR as well as overseeing the fortnightly email newsletter. XpertHR's core content includes the pay settlement tracking service, complemented by surveys, case studies and practical guidance on all aspects of day-to-day reward management.

In the 15 years that I have been collecting and analysing pay deals, I have seen pay settlements vary from years stuck at 3%, to a pay freeze being the norm. When monitoring pay settlement trends I am particularly interested in the wider economic influence, and impact, on pay award levels. The processes that managers employ to set pay increases, what motivates staff on the pay and benefits front, and how to develop the ideal reward package also keep my attention.

XpertHR's pay settlement data is frequently quoted in the media, and I have been interviewed about our findings on such outlets as BBC News 24, Sky News and 5 live.

Prior to focussing solely on pay and benefits I worked as a researcher on IRS Employment Review. I developed an interest in industrial relations which has transferred to the role that industrial relations plays in the pay-setting environment.

Email: sheila.attwood@xperthr.co.uk

Recent posts from Sheila Attwood

• How to manage overtime
• Benchmark your benefits and allowances
• Pay forecasts for 2012 - take part
• National minimum wage 2011/2012 rates confirmed
• Budget 2011 - key announcements
• Employers think NMW 2011 should rise to £6 an hour
• Gender pay gap closes further
• 2% pay rise predicted for 2011
• Doubt over Chancellor's figures on public sector pay
• Too rich to retire