Finding a footing in Financial Services Tax
I started my career in a corporate tax team at another professional services firm, which gave me a great insight into the world of tax while working through my exams. After a couple of years working mostly on compliance work, I wanted to get more exposure into tax advisory and transaction projects. So, in February 2019, I joined the Financial Services Tax team at Grant Thornton as a part-qualified associate, with one exam left to go.
When I first joined the firm, I was a bit nervous about making the transition to a new team, particularly one whose sector-focus was completely new to me. But with the support of the team around me, I quickly got up to speed. Now, it’s six years later and I work in the same team with a focus on Wealth and Asset management. Having a broad variety of tax compliance, advisory and transaction work is great for me – it means no two days are the same, which is one of the things I find most rewarding.
My work on transactions in the sector has been a particular highlight. Working with our wider Transactions Advisory Services practice, I’ve been fortunate to have worked on over 20 deals with a cumulative value of nearly £500 million over the past eighteen months.
Making the most of new opportunities
Since joining the firm, I've progressed quite quickly. Looking back on it now, I think this reflects not only my hard work, but also the amazing opportunities here at Grant Thornton.
One particularly valuable opportunity I had while working as an associate director was a six-month secondment to a large asset management firm, working within their EMEA corporate tax team. This experience gave me valuable insight into client service levels, the pragmatism and commerciality of advice, and the holistic approach needed to meet client needs – something I wouldn’t have fully appreciated without having the experience first-hand.
This is just one example of how the firm invests in its people and gives you opportunities to grow and learn.
Having a broad variety of tax compliance, advisory and transaction work is great for me – it means no two days are the same, which is one of the things I find most rewarding.
Stepping up to director
I recently became a director in our team, a journey which began with a series of workshops to help me understand the role and the skills I’d need. Something I really appreciate about the firm is that it’s always made clear what the expectations are for various roles, which makes progressing in the right direction much easier.
One of the most useful parts of the process was hearing insights and advice from past directors and partners about their experiences and the challenges they faced. It was a really helpful way to get ready for the role.
Throughout the process of preparing for the role, I’ve had amazing support from colleagues and mentors who have been key to my development over the last six years. This support extends beyond my immediate team, with partners and directors across the firm willing to offer their guidance. It really shows how supportive the environment is at the firm, where everyone is happy to help each other succeed.
Nurturing the next generation
This year, my focus is on finessing the shift from managing to directing. So far, I’ve realised it’s not like flipping a switch; it takes a conscious effort to step away from day-to-day tasks and focus on the bigger picture.
Another key part of the director role is developing junior team members. The firm’s tax practice continues to grow, and achieving our ambitious targets means significant investment in people. Mentoring the next generation of managers by helping them develop relationships with their clients and get involved in advisory work is a great chance for me to give back and support their growth, just as I’ve been supported in my career.
To support the wider tax practice’s growth plans, we’ve already welcomed several new partners this year. The balanced approach of bringing in new talent and nurturing our existing people makes sure we have a strong pipeline of leaders to drive us forwards.
It's an exciting time for us and I’m confident that with the right people, our practice will continue to grow and provide more opportunities for people at all stages of their career journey.
