Ciarán
Devery

Who I help

International Organisations. SME’s, Large Corporates, Start Ups, Partnerships, Public Sector.

How I help

Off-payroll and IR35 assessments. Short-term business traveller assessments. Remote workers assessments. Shadow payroll processing. Gender Pay gap reporting. Cost estimates. Hypothetical tax calculations.  Data Visualisation.

“Easy-to-use solutions that drive real change.”

Ciarán Devery is a Global Employment Tax Director based in our Edinburgh office. He works closely with clients on using technology to simplify the complexities of employment tax, social security, and payroll, and helping them make informed decisions that support both their business and their workforce.

With a keen focus on technology, Ciarán identifies innovative solutions that enhance efficiency and reduce risk, ensuring clients stay compliant while achieving their broader goals. His approach is built on trust, clear communication, and a deep understanding of each client’s unique challenges—making complex issues easier to manage and less of a burden.

Clients Are at the Heart of Everything

“To me, “Clients are our passion” is more than just a phrase—it’s the driving force behind everything I do. Whether I’m helping clients, supporting their employees, or working with my colleagues, my focus is always on creating a positive experience. That means putting clients at the centre of every decision, tailoring solutions to their specific needs, and ensuring they feel supported every step of the way.

One of my greatest strengths is my ability to see problems differently. I don’t believe in generic answers. Instead, I take the time to fully understand each client’s unique challenges and guide them towards solutions that make their lives easier. It’s not just about solving problems—it’s about removing stress, simplifying processes, and helping them focus on what really matters. That’s what make working with clients so rewarding.  We get to see them overcome blockers to achieving their goals – that’s what it is all about.”

Cutting Through Complexity

“I love turning something complex into a simple solution. Handling employee tax, social security, and payroll issues, both domestic and international, can be overwhelming, and I know that most clients don’t want to get bogged down in the details—they just want the problem solved. That’s where I come in. Whether it’s helping a client navigate a tricky thorny issue or guiding them towards a more efficient way of working or providing them additional insights to make more informed decision, I make sure the technology solution is clear, practical, and tailored to their needs.

A client once told me, “Oh wow, that’s really simple to do.” That was a great moment for me because that’s exactly what I aim to do—strip away the complexity, cut through the confusion, and provide solutions that actually work for clients.”

Bringing Technology into the Conversation

“Technology is changing at an incredible pace, and it’s both exciting and challenging to keep up. Generative AI, data analytics, blockchain, and virtual reality are all reshaping how businesses operate—and how we support our clients. My role is to look beyond the hype and find practical ways to apply these innovations in ways that genuinely help. It’s not about using technology for the sake of it; it’s about making smarter, more informed decisions that reduce risk and improve efficiency.”

Trust, Transparency & Timely Solutions

“The best relationships—whether personal or professional—are built on trust, and for me, that trust comes from two key things: reliability and simplicity. I believe in delivering on my promises within the agreed timeframe. Communicating regularly, openly, and honestly means discussing expectations, needs, and goals upfront and maintaining a dialogue to ensure nothing gets lost in translation. When you truly understand a client’s business, their challenges, and what they want to achieve, you can offer solutions that make a real difference.”

No One-Size-Fits-All Approach

“Every client is different, so there’s no single ‘right’ way to work with them. Some prefer a hands-on, in-person approach, while others are happy with virtual support. The key is flexibility—understanding what works best for them and adapting accordingly. That’s why I put such an emphasis on regular, open communication. It helps us stay aligned and ensures they always feel supported, no matter how we interact.”

Collaboration That Makes a Difference

“One of the best parts of my role is working alongside my colleagues. I love bouncing ideas off each other, challenging exploring different perspectives, and pushing ourselves to get better at what we do. It’s this kind of collaboration that leads to better solutions for our clients. No matter how much experience someone has, there’s always something new to learn, and that continuous learning makes the job all the more rewarding.”

The Future Is Full of Opportunity

“The evolving workplace presents fresh challenges for businesses—whether it’s adapting to new technology, managing a changing workforce, or keeping employees engaged in an increasingly dynamic environment. I see these as opportunities rather than obstacles. Helping clients embrace change and find new ways to succeed is what keeps my work interesting and rewarding.

At AAB, I’m particularly excited about our expansion into new markets and investment in cutting-edge technology. It’s a sign of a forward-thinking business—one that’s committed to enhancing client services, staying ahead of the curve, and continually growing. Just as importantly, AAB’s focus on employee development and community engagement means we’re not just working for our clients, but also making a positive impact in the wider world.”