“We wanted to offer our clients a solution – not a new problem”

Engler & Blattmann, a tax advisory firm from Freiburg, suddenly faced a critical challenge. Two long-standing payroll staff members left the company – one after over twelve years, who had been earmarked as the long-term successor for payroll matters, unexpectedly moved to a friendly tax adviser, and a second member went into partial retirement. The firm could no longer cover the payroll department internally at the desired level. In a situation where qualified personnel is extremely difficult to find – particularly in Freiburg – this was not a task that could be solved in the short term. The firm handled between 300 and 400 payroll runs, predominantly from the hospitality and trades sectors as well as freelancers, some with complex structures involving supplements and special regulations.

Engler & Blattmann decided on a clear break and a partnership with LOHN24. Following an internet search, co-owner Franz-Georg Blattmann found LOHN24 as a specialised payroll partner with a focus on tax advisory collaborations. Initial contact was constructive and swift. The transition began in October 2024 with first contact, and the transfer of payroll mandates commenced in December 2024. The transition phase lasted approximately two to three months, as each client had to be individually engaged. The firm acted as a liaison – organisationally, communicatively and professionally during the handover phase. The former employee remained until February and helped transfer knowledge. With LOHN24, a structured handover system was developed: clients were assigned to dedicated teams, ticketing systems were introduced, and communication channels were established. The firm communicated transparently with its clients about the transition and emphasised that this was not a neglect but a specialised solution. Operationally, the firm is no longer involved in payroll matters today; professionally only on an ad-hoc basis for queries. The firm has full access to all tickets and documents at LOHN24.

Following the transition to LOHN24, Engler & Blattmann was able to continue serving its clients at a high level without the internal burden of payroll processing. Communication is structured, data access is clear, and roles are cleanly divided. There is a team leader at LOHN24 whom the firm can contact if issues arise. For audits – both operational audits and social insurance audits – LOHN24 assumes responsibility, which is very reassuring for the firm. Liability was clearly transferred. Clients were well received and written documentation through the ticketing system enhanced the quality and traceability of processes. The collaboration is summarised by Blattmann in three words: reliability, transparency and relief.