Seeing and doing things differently-Devania helps us do MORE

Payroll Officer, Devania Naidoo, has proven that seeing and doing things differently can enable you to achieve your goals. Her positive attitude and desire to be MORE curious has led her to create MORE impact in her life and at RCL FOODS.

We interviewed Devania to hear more about her inspiring journey so far…

1.Before we get to know the “work” Devania, tell us a bit more about the “24 hour” Devania.

I am a bubbly introvert who is passionate about making a positive difference in the world. Being raised in a little town on the South Coast has contributed to my appreciation for the smaller things in life and my humble beginnings have shaped me into the individual that I am today.

I am a natural problem solver and I thrive when assisting others. I am dedicated to adding as much of ‘me’ into every task that I can. I love being involved in multiple projects because I am always curious about what happens “behind the scenes.

2. Tell us about your career journey that led you to become a Payroll Officer at RCL FOODS.

My dad was the breadwinner in my house, but when he sadly passed away, my mother had to take on odd jobs to keep our household afloat. Things were extremely difficult financially and I knew that the only way I could repay my mother was to focus on my academics. I passed each grade with distinctions, but I felt that my hopes of going to a tertiary institution may be too great to ask for. Nonetheless, I applied for bursaries and I received enough to carry me through to the end of my qualification.

It was a difficult journey, but I graduated in 2016 with a Bachelor of Commerce Degree, majoring in Human Resource Management. I joined RCL FOODS soon after that as a Centralized HR Administrator. This became the pivot point for my life. Ever since I joined RCL FOODS, I have been able to make my mother’s burden lighter. I am able to not only provide for my own family but also partake in charity initiatives. 

In 2018 I was promoted to a Payroll Officer position which manages the payroll of the KZN region. My journey has groomed me into the strong, unique person that I am today.

3. What does a day in the life of a Payroll Officer look like?

Payroll is one of the most underrated fields in the business. Each day requires a balance of both routine and unpredictability.

My daily tasks include providing expert support to HR teams and employees. This ranges from remuneration to legislation, managing the end to end processing of business unit payrolls and ensuring that Pension and other statutory and voluntary deductions have been accurately processed. Another task includes maintaining payroll records to ensure accuracy, transparency, and confidentiality. In a nutshell, Payroll involves a lot more than simply paying people!

4. We heard that you are all about being MORE Curious. What does this mean to you and how does RCL FOODS allow you to be MORE Curious?

I am always hungry for more knowledge. I enjoy breaking down procedures to understand the “how” and “why” behind certain actions.

I am lucky to belong to RCL FOODS that encourages development as this gives me the opportunity to relook existing approaches and brainstorm how they could be improved.

5. What do you enjoy most about your current role?

Payroll is a lot like a puzzle and it’s only at the end of the month that you get to see the finished picture. Although the deadlines are very tight, I thoroughly enjoy the job satisfaction that I receive when I know that my payroll has been finalised and reconciled; it is almost thrilling! I appreciate being pushed to evolve, develop, and improve.

6. What are some of the main challenges that you face?

One of my main challenges is the unpredictability of the role. This field demands a strict control of multitasking, prioritisation, and time management skills.

7. What has been your most fulfilling moment at RCL FOODS?

A personal goal of mine was to attain an Honours Degree in Human Resource Management. Due to my financial obligations, I threw myself into the working world instead. Last year I applied for the Company Assisted Studies programme offered by RCL FOODS. To my excitement, I was accepted! Earlier this year, I completed my qualification. To be able to tick this off my goal list was by far one of the most fulfilling moments of my life. I have nothing but gratitude for the management at RCL FOODS.

8. What is your life’s mantra?

“Be the change YOU wish to see in the world.” It’s okay to be different, as long as you remain authentic to yourself.

We are grateful for people like Devania who bring their authentic selves and unique stories to RCL FOODS and inspire those around them!