A member's view: Marcus Rasberry

How did you come to work in tax?

I started my career in tax in 2018 with PwC, and I’ve been here ever since! Having had the opportunity to undertake work experience in tax at PwC during Sixth Form, I realised tax was right for me. I loved the problem solving elements, both when working in a team and working with a variety of sources to come to an answer which isn’t always as it first seems.

Why is the ATT qualification important?

I started my career in tax straight from school, so the ATT has been vital in building up my UK tax knowledge and understanding the fundamental principles of taxation.

Whilst my role is focused on providing tax advice to clients, having an in-depth understanding of the compliance and computational aspects of tax has been crucial in both the compliance work I have been involved in, and having a wider understanding of the impacts of transactions and advice being implemented by our clients.

The ATT qualification has given me confidence in my day job, and has also prepared me for the CTA qualification which I’ve just completed.

How would you describe yourself in three words?

Inquisitive, focused and communicative.

Who has influenced you in your career?

My biggest influence as to how I approach issues are the partners I work with. They have an incredible ability to cut through the vastly complex details we work with, and break these down into clear commercial issues which our clients can understand.

What are the highlights of your career?

I’ve enjoyed working with a wide range of businesses, from smaller owner-managed businesses to listed businesses and household names. I’ve worked on a range of transactions, which often involve complex problems and the opportunity to work across countries, so I’ve had the chance to learn a significant amount about overseas tax systems and the interaction with the UK and other tax environments.

What advice would you give to people starting off in their career?

Never be afraid to ask questions – no question is a stupid question! It’s so important as tax technicians to be inquisitive, so it’s never too early to ask questions of your colleagues and peers.

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

I believe tax advisers will become even more important in the future with the role we have to play in the transformation of economies – particularly given the significant recent developments in the OECD BEPS plan. Technology will continue to form an even more fundamental part of our roles, regardless of the types of clients we work with.

What advice would you give your future self?

Don’t be afraid to take new opportunities!

Tell me something about yourself that others may be surprised to know.

I am absolutely terrified of heights. Clearly I need to get out more, given that this is my ‘surprising’ fact!

Marcus is part of PwC’s Deals Tax team, which sits within a wide network of PwC specialists.