Junior Tax Associate Review

I work in the Corporate Tax team at BDO, and typically on a day-to-day basis I will assist clients with corporation tax compliance matters, whether this is preparing tax computations / returns or on a more advisory basis. Each trainee has a portfolio of clients who they are responsible for managing, and has provided me with exposure to a number of entities from a variety of different industries / jurisdictions.

Currently I am studying towards the joint ACA-CTA qualification, which has allowed me to develop my knowledge of not only tax but the wider professional services sector. Having come from an accounting background at university, the joint qualification is a good way for me to develop upon my existing skills in a more specialised manner for the business stream I am working in. Aside from professional qualifications, I have gained exposure to more specific tax rules, in both international and UK terms.

I am really enjoying the programme at BDO. The programme is well structured over the 3 year apprenticeship, and I am fortunate to be part of a close knit team who are keen to support me through both my studies and work matters. The opportunity to work in a number of areas across the organisation is also a big plus.

There is a clear structure to the programme. In addition to a clearly structured study program at the training provider (BPP), there are regularly reviews of my progress via my counselling manager / mentor. Before starting in the office even I had training on the software I would be using day-to-day.

Support is easily accessible for a variety of matters, and the team are keen to offer any guidance where possible. It is clear that the organisation have an interest in my development whether it is via my studies or my personal development. The buddy system has been a good way to support my integration into life at BDO.

BPP have provided significant support. The tutors are very knowledgeable in my subject area, and I have never had any issues in understanding their tuition. They are very keen for you to approach them with any difficulties you are facing with the syllabus, even after the course has ended. I find the classroom sessions very engaging and interactive, and this allows me to grasp the subject easier.

Having come from an accounting background at university and also previously doing bookkeeping, undertaking the ACA-CTA qualification has allowed me to develop upon these experiences. Specifically, it has provided a more intricate understanding of the professional services sector, far beyond my prior knowledge base. It has been crucial for my day-to-day work, as it has allowed me to recognise the correct approach to specific situations.

There are frequent social events held not only in our team, but office wide. We have an annual 'Away Day' with another office, which is a really great way of getting to know our colleagues that we do not always see on a day-to-day basis. Aside from this, there are opportunities to engage in CSR volunteering initatives. There is something for everyone.

Yes

I would recommend BDO as it is a great organisation to work for. Aside from the opportunities for personal development, I genuinely enjoy working with people across my department and the wider organisation. The work is challenging but rewarding, and people are always willing to help you succeed. I feel as though I have learnt so much about my business stream already, despite only working here for a short period of time.

The assessment days are a great way of determining who is the right fit for BDO. If I had to give advice it would be to make sure that you have a clear understanding of the business stream you are applying for. Take tax for example - try and have some knowledge of recent developments in the area, as it is a regularly changing sector.