In a 2026 landscape dominated by rapid automation and digital shifts in payroll services and HCM, reaching a 15th anniversary requires more than just staying current with software. For John and Pete Feaman, president and vice president of IPS, the company’s longevity is the result of a ‘people-first’ mindset that has remained their North Star since day one.
Reflecting on their journey, the Feamans remember the early days of a “ground-up” start that immediately tested their resolve.
“The first year in business was our biggest obstacle,” recalls John. “It was difficult, but it forced us to develop the processes and culture that define us today.”
From four employees on staff in 2010, IPS has maintained a steady 15% to 20% year-over-year growth. IPS has now supported thousands of clients nationwide with a dedicated team of fourteen specialists, who lead implementation and client services; sales and business development; tax management, HCM, and customer support.
Defining the IPS Difference
Survival in the payroll industry requires accuracy and identity. A pivotal moment for IPS came after year three when the company transitioned to the iSolved software platform, a move that keeps the team at the forefront of industry innovation.
Within the past year, there was a profound internal strategic shift. John and Pete developed a singular mission for the IPS team: “To make it awesome”. It is supported by four core mindsets:
- Bring a ‘can-do” attitude to every situation. Be positive and driven.
- Trustworthy: Always doing the right thing for clients and colleagues.
- Compassionate: We are authentic and sincere in our approach.
- Be excited. Have Fun.
“These values are the baseline for how we serve clients and hire employees,” Pete explains. “Our white-glove approach has resulted in an incredible client retention rate, where turnover sits at just under 1%. In an industry often dominated by volume over value, IPS has proven that personal touch is the ultimate competitive advantage.”
The Evolution of “Payroll+”
While payroll services remain the heart of the business, the recent surge in growth is attributed to the “+” in Payroll+. Today’s businesses demand more than a paycheck. A full suite of integrated HCM tools is required, including Benefits Administration, Time and Attendance, HRIS, Applicant Tracking, Electronic Onboarding, and Performance Review solutions.
“Clients are looking for real-time data and mobile-friendly self-service,” says John. “We have the technology to see a client grow from five employees to 5,000.”
This scalability was especially crucial during the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, where IPS served as a steady hand for businesses navigating unprecedented regulatory shifts.
The Future: Tech-Enabled, Human-Led
15 years is an achievement to be celebrated, and IPS has no plans to slow down. A greater reliance on automation defines the future to improve internal communication and service. IPS continues to evaluate how AI can enhance operational efficiency and client engagement, but the primary investment remains in human resources.
“Our commitment has not wavered since the beginning,” Pete says. “We continue to invest in good people who align with our mission.”
When asked what their father and company founder, the late Larry Feaman, would think about IPS today, the answer is simple: “He’d be ecstatic and incredibly proud.”