Junior Tax Associate Review

Day to day involves tax compliance work, and as a first year associate, there is no allocated work so all work is delegated from more senior people apart from a few portfolio companies. This consists of mainly ad hoc tasks, such as calls and letters to HMRC to resolve errors on returns, completing tax computations, and other admin tasks. This involves using software such as Alpha tax, word and powerpoint.

I have learnt a lot about tax, such as disallowances, capital expenditures and law. Additionally, I have also learnt new skills through the software, as I now can use tax software (Alphatax) and also furthered my word/powerpoint skills through frequent use. I have also improved on my communication skills.

I think the programme has been decent so far, although communication about exams has been poor. For example, we have not received much communication regarding what actions we need to take to complete the apprenticeship programme. However, the office work has been decent. Overall, I would say the actual work is fine but they studying aspect is not great.

I would say organisation has been mixed. Firstly, the graduate scheme was delayed by almost 3 months, and despite this delay, upon starting, the communication regarding study leave and exams has been very mixed, with communications changing constantly leaving me very confused. Additionally, client portfolios are too small and poorly organised as much of my client work occurs when I am out of office due to exams.

Support from the employer has been okay, as we have allocated study leave days to work towards exams as well as sessions with BPP to cover exam content. However, workshops provided by the company weren't very useful for me. Overall, I would say support has been sufficient but could be improved.

BPP is my training provider, and the resources they provide are quite good. For example, they provide online resources such as question practice and videos to help us to understand the content. There are also taught study days with a tutor which is quite useful for some students, but I found the self study days more useful personally.

I think some of the knowledge I have gained from the qualification has been useful, although most of the knowledge is not useful, as ACA is mainly aimed at audit students. However, the two tax modules have been useful for me as I am a tax associate. Therefore most modules for the qualification aren't useful.

Yes, there are many opportunities such as professional networking events across different grades and social activities, although as everything is currently online the social aspect has not been great so far. I believe sports teams are also offered although as everything is currently online I've not experienced this personally.

Yes

I think BDO is a good firm to work at overall as there is a nice working culture. People are friendly and helpful, and I have felt welcomed since starting here. Additionally, there is a good work life balance. I have enjoyed the office work so far, and it is good we have time off for exams.

Make sure to know why you are applying for the firm, read up on the firm and why you want to be at BDO and not the Big Four. Be enthusiastic and engaging in the interview. Be yourself and be genuine and if this comes across you will be successful in securing a role at the firm.