Trainee Tax Associate - HRS Review

I work in HRS, more specifically in the international mobility and assurance platform team. This involves arranging and sitting in tax consultation meetings with internationally mobile employees of our clients. The role also involves responding to and resolving queries from clients and HMRC and occasionally drafting some tax advice. There is also some administration to ensure that the tax season runs smoothly.

I study for the ATT qualification, but the majority of my learning is done on the job. Working with senior members of staff on a regular basis has allowed me to gain a large amount of technical knowledge in a short amount of time. We're also given access to many sources of internal learning and we regularly have updates on hot topics in the tax world or changing legislation.

Since joining PwC I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment as the team make me feel very valued and appreciate the work that I do. I find that being the most junior member of staff means people dedicate a lot of time to teach me and guide me where I struggle, this in turn encourages me to work better and this ultimately leads to a healthy and enjoyable working culture.

I feel that from day one all members of staff value me not only for what I can provide now, but they invest in my future and are always teaching me and encouraging me to move up to the next level.

Before joining PwC I didn't know how I would settle in and manage the joining phase, however from the induction to the programme to the local office introduction I was under a structured programme that enabled me to worry less and concentrate more on getting to know the firm, the people I would start the programme with and those I would work with. Almost a year on and everything still seems structured, clear and understandable whether it be with regards to internal tasks, the ATT or the Diploma.

We use an external training provider for the ATT and the Diploma. Alongside college days we're given access to the tutor whenever we need help or guidance on a topic by phone or email. We also get access to a large amount of digital learning material that covers all courses we study.

When you join you’re assigned a people manager and a buddy. Both are there to facilitate any problems we have and to aid our personal as well as professional development. The firm puts great emphasis on improving in what we do, to do this the firm provides many routes were we are able to address any issues and improve on any weaknesses we may have.

If you bare in mind that this programme is aimed at college leavers, the salary is competitive and certainly enough to get by on comfortably (even in London). The firm also offers benefits and in some cases a bonus scheme.

There is a great emphasis on socialising within the firm and to build strong networks across lines of service thus the company arranges many events where people from varying offices, lines of service and grades can socialise and build networks. PwC also has many events/programmes which help local charities.

Yes

Enjoyable working culture, great focus on development, opportunities for all types of work within the firm across different offices, countries and lines of service.

When at the interview stage be prepared to demonstrate your willingness to embrace the work by showing some element of professionally competency.