A member's view: Lisa Matthews

How did you find out about a career in tax?

I studied Business Management with Accounting and Finance at university with a placement year and I thoroughly enjoyed working in overseas payroll tax. I wrote my dissertation on European social security schemes, which further developed my interest for working in the tax industry. This meant I actively researched ways of entering the industry which led me to undertaking the ATT qualification.

Why is the ATT qualification important?

I view the ATT as the entrance into a career in tax. The qualification has been vital in assisting my development on the job and providing the building blocks to aid my growth within the industry. It has not only supported me in my role in corporation tax, but also in working towards the CTA qualification.

Why did you pursue a career in tax?

When I graduated from university, I knew tax was the area I wanted to work in. Following my placement year and final year writing my dissertation, I developed a real interest in learning about the tax system and studying the legislation. The tax industry appealed to me because of the teamworking environments, knowledge sharing and overall ability to exercise professional judgement.

How would you describe yourself in three words?

Loyal, driven and focused.

Who has influenced you in your career so far?

My employer has had a large influence. My role began in the Corporate Tax department working towards the ATT qualification. Since completing it, I’ve had further opportunities to develop and grow, specifically to now studying the joint ACA/CTA programme. My line managers have been influential in assisting my progress, and I am grateful to my mentor for supporting my overall growth to date.

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

Jump at it! The ATT qualification is invaluable for performing in the tax sector. The more you put in, the greater the returns, so my advice is to put everything you can into it.

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

Technological development is influential in our world today but I don’t foresee automation overtaking our industry. Instead, I feel our role as advisors will become more and more vital to society. As tax legislation continues to develop and become more stringent and demanding, it will be even more important for advisors to exercise professional scepticism and make judgement calls to add value for clients.

What advice would you give to your future self?

Continue to seek out opportunities. Growth is a rollercoaster with its highs and lows – most importantly, enjoy riding it. Focus on your development, whilst staying present. If you’re not feeling challenged, explore all your options – nothing worth having comes easy!

Tell me something about yourself that others may not know about you.

I love unwinding from the day by learning new pieces to play on the piano. When I was younger, I had lessons and worked towards my Grade 5, but now I play for leisure. I hear a song on the radio and enjoy finding the chords and teaching myself to play.

Contact

If you would like to take part in A member’s view, please contact Salema Hafiz at: shafiz@ciot.org.uk