A member’s view: Irsa Hussain

How did you find out about a career in tax?

Tax chose me! It was something I fell into at 18 when I started my career as an apprentice at a Big Four firm. I’d always been curious about the world of finance and law, and tax turned out to be the perfect blend of both. I enjoyed how it required logic, critical thinking and applying rules to real-life situations. That early exposure helped me realise tax was far more dynamic and people focused than I ever expected.

Why is the ATT qualification important?

ATT gave me a strong foundation in technical tax knowledge and helped me build the confidence to speak to clients. It’s a well-respected qualification that showed my commitment to developing specialist skills and opened doors professionally. It also gave me space to explore different areas of tax and figure out what I genuinely enjoyed, which is what motivated me to continue onto the Level 7 ACA/CTA qualification.

Why did you pursue a career in tax?

It combines problem solving, technical detail and working with people. I liked that it wasn’t just about numbers, but understanding someone’s position and helping them make informed decisions.

How would you describe yourself in three words?

Curious, resilient, thoughtful.

Who has influenced you in your career so far?

A big influence has been my family. I’ve seen the sacrifices they made so I could have opportunities they didn’t, and that’s shaped my work ethic and how I carry myself. I’ve also had supportive managers, and colleagues who’ve become great friends. Jagdeep Soor from the Multicultural Apprenticeship Alliance has also had a lasting impact, showing me what it means to lead with purpose.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of doing the ATT qualification?

Do it! It’s a great foundation but don’t just focus on passing the exams; use the opportunity to understand how tax fits into the bigger picture. Be curious, ask questions, get involved and take time to reflect on what areas interest you most.

What are your predictions for tax advisers and the tax industry?

With increasing digitalisation and real-time reporting, compliance is becoming more automated, shifting the focus to strategic advice and stronger client relationships. Meanwhile, global changes like evolving trade dynamics and international tax reform make cross-border planning more complex. Clients need advisers who connect the dots and provide commercial, big-picture thinking.

What advice would you give to your future self?

Things won’t always feel clear, and that’s okay. Keep going, even when it feels uncertain. Try not to get too caught up in doing the next thing or ticking the next box. Take time to pause, reflect and enjoy what you’re doing.

Tell me something that others may not know about you.

I’m an only child of first-generation immigrant parents – the first in my family to go into higher education. It was tough at times, but it’s shaped my resilience and my faith grounds me, helping me to stay steady through work and exams, and taught me the value of patience, trust, and not burning out in the process.