Assistant Tax Advisor Review

I am an Assistant Tax Advisor. I assist clients with VAT compliance and advisory work - preparing and submitting returns on their behalf, reviewing their systems and processes, and providing assistance on VAT technical issues. I often work with colleagues across the globe from a range of different service lines on various projects. Additionally, I am involved in generating new work and finding new opportunities, which leads to frequent client meetings (both face-to-face and on the phone).

I work often on technology projects, building data analytics and automation solutions for clients. This has allowed me to build on an existing understanding of technology and programming. My colleagues are always happy to share knowledge. I have developed a range of new skills through my time in the office and my qualifications/external training - I was completely green to the world of business and accounting prior to starting at EY, but I now feel that I have a solid understanding of these areas which is growing by the day. Detailed internal training courses are provided upon joining and built on throughout the program which enable myself and my peers to contribute to technically challenging issues from the beginning.

I enjoy the satisfaction of delivering solutions to clients and the reward that comes with overcoming difficult problems. My colleagues both in my direct team and across the firm have been a pleasure to work with.

I am frequently reminded that the work I do is appreciated - managers and clients often express their appreciation. During particularly busy or challenging projects I have been rewarded with vouchers/awards for specific pieces of work.

Study periods and exam schedules follow a rigid calendar. This allows me to prepare both mentally and in terms of my work load if I have a period of study upcoming. The programme is generally well organised and management is responsive to feedback about how it is structured.

In addition to the study materials provided by the exam board, the training provider has a range of helpful material available on their online portal. We are also provided with condensed study notes which are extremely helpful in preparing for an exam. The tuition is intense at times yet effective - we are able to get through large volumes of material in short spaces of time and still pass exams. Tutors make themselves available in person and through email to talk through any issues.

Mentors are assigned to new joiners, and frequent written feedback is given by any member of the team if requested. Support is available on a range of issues if required.

In my first year I was able to comfortably meet my living costs (rent, bills, food, commuting, etc.) while still putting some money to one side each month. Pay rises have been generous and I am able to meet my living costs with a sizable portion left to spare.

Social events are frequent on a team, office, and regional basis. There are further opportunities to partake at community and fundraising events, and I have also taken part in client/networking sessions and recruitment events.

Yes

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here so far and look forward to the coming years. I think that EY offers a great place to work for a range of people - the teams here are diverse in their experiences and backgrounds, which means everybody has their own unique perspective. Anyone with a desire to succeed and collaborate could find a place here, be well rewarded for it, and enjoy the experience.

I would advice applicants to focus on what makes them unique as an individual, and not be too bogged down with academics. Talk about something interesting - the interviewer will remember you, and you will demonstrate that you bring a unique perspective to the table. In group exercises, make sure to participate and be confident, but do so in a collaborative way (make sure to value the input of others and don't talk over them or diminish their contributions).