Assistant Tax Advisor Review

I work within Business Tax Services, where I provide assistance with Corporation Tax for a variety of companies. On a day to day basis, I advise clients on their tax risks and obligations, complete tax computations, complete tax provisions for accounts, assist with audits of tax figures. There is also always other things going on in the office, like internal catch ups, or office wide events.

The training and learning I have received so far is excellent. I have been on 200+ hours of internal training in relation to tax, as well as other one off training sessions eg. how to build client relationships. Every couple of weeks my team also gets together to share technical knowledge so that it is passed down. I am also completing the ACA qualification which so far I have completed the first level of, so I have gained a good foundation of business knowledge. I have also developed many professional skills through the work experience aspect, such as communication and business writing.

I love my programme, as I really enjoy tax and like the mixture of gaining an accounting qualification at the same time. It was nothing like I expected to be honest! but that was because I didn't have any business knowledge prior to joining EY. It has all turned out for the best anyway. The company culture is quite relaxed which fits well with my personality - I would be put off by somewhere that was too fast paced and corporate.

I feel quite valued by EY as I have received numerous recognition awards for my services to things such as a recruiting further apprentices. We also have an internal feedback system where we gain feedback every 3 months, so hearing positive comments through this makes you feel valued. You are also assigned a counsellor who is dedicated to ensuring your wellbeing and that you are happy in your role.

The exam side of the programme is very well structured, as you are provided with a timetable for college and exams. However, the work experience side of the programme is much less structured as you are able to make of it what you wish. It differs completely depending on what team you are placed in when you join, which I think is positive because all the school leavers develop in their own unique way.

The college are fairly supportive when studying for exams - they offer their advice and support whenever you need it. They also provide you with an online platform which is really helpful, and you can track your progress on here and revise for the exams. You are also provided with all the books and materials necessary.

EY are also very supportive, granting study leave when you have exams. You are (as mentioned) allocated a counsellor who is very helpful, and there are also other opportunities to get involved in mentoring programmes etc. Generally everyone is supportive of school leavers and want to give us a good experience by getting us involved in interesting work.

I am able to afford to live in Birmingham city centre, in a house share with a few friends. I don't have any travel costs because I can walk to work, and my daily costs are most certainly covered by the salary. I have a bit left over to spend recreationally, and go on a few holidays/trips each year which is nice.

There are endless opportunities outside of work. I am part of BCASS (Birmingham Chartered Accountants Student Society) where we hold social events for other accounting school leavers/graduates across Birmingham. I also attend other societies such as West Midlands Women in Tax, and Inner Circle which includes other professions. I am also involved in a few volunteering opportunities.

Yes

EY look after you really well, and provide an excellent foundation for wherever you want to take your career. The support you will receive is amazing and the only limit to your success is your ability.

Speak to someone from EY before applying, so that they can give you good insight to the job, and tips on application process etc. Make sure you get a good understanding of the EY culture because they like to recruit on this basis to ensure that we have the best people, that all get on well together. Also make sure you understand the service line you are applying for as this will determine your career at EY.