Connie joined the Tax Specialist Programme (TSP) in September 2023 with a Bachelor’s in History with politics. In this blog, she reflects on how her confidence has grown, the invaluable support from colleagues, and the reality of balancing this demanding but rewarding training with hands-on casework.
Daily work and responsibilities
Can you walk us through a typical day or week in your role?
My schedule is very busy. I plan each week ahead with whatever exam tutorials or revision is needed for that week, especially if there are tutorials. I then look at the work I have on hand and determine in order of priority what needs to be completed and by what date when deciding which to do first. I manage expectations and inform stakeholders in the event I might need an extension on any work.
How has your role evolved since last year? What new responsibilities or projects have you taken on?
My role has evolved, and I am now responsible for certain aspect risks in my area, which is now VAT. I manage the risks and ask for help from more senior colleagues as and when needed but am largely in charge of contacting the customer and deciding what the tax treatment is.
How do you balance training sessions and exams with actual work responsibilities?
I find it is a very busy schedule and there is a lot of planning to do when arranging time to complete the work and study for the exams. When a really complex piece of work is completed though, there is a great sense of accomplishment at achieving it, whether it’s sending a proposal to policy, or completing a compliance check.
How do you feel your confidence has grown since starting the programme?
My confidence, especially when dealing with customers, has grown and I feel I can now present issues with their tax affairs to them and question the validity of their claims and certain tax treatments.
Challenges and surprises
What’s been the biggest surprise about the role compared to what you expected?
I think the biggest surprise about the role is how much support there is form other colleagues. I can just walk up to someone who I haven’t met before on the team and ask for help, and they will make the time to talk me through the issue.
What aspects of the job do you find most challenging, and what aspects do you find most rewarding?
I find the most challenging part of my role is working in a tax area I’m still learning. Particularly because I have to try and learn the legislation and rules at the same time as I’m working on a risk.
The most rewarding aspect of my job is completing a piece of work that helps resolve or progress a case towards closure. It’s satisfying to know that my contribution has made a real difference for the team and the customer.
Work-life balance and culture
How would you describe the team culture and support you’ve received?
The team culture is very good in VAT. Everyone is very happy and willing to help and are always open to giving time to mentor me. I have had a lot of support from various members of the team and been offered help whenever I need it by other members who I have yet to work with.
What’s the office atmosphere like?
The office atmosphere is very friendly, if there are any issues with a certain risk or case then people are very open and happy to help. There are periodic team events to meet the team for an hour or so a couple of times a year so any new faces can be introduced.
What opportunities have you had to get involved in HMRC’s social activities or volunteering initiatives?
I am a member of the RCSL (Revenue and Customs Sports and Leisure) and attend the various sporting events throughout the year, as well as occasionally going to the theatre with them. The sports weekend every year is a great opportunity to have fun and meet people from different regions and network as well.
How do you find balancing the demands of training and work with your personal life?
While it’s a busy course, I find that I can enjoy my weekends without trying to complete work before deadlines. Sometimes closer to exams some revision is needed in personal time, but the exams are far enough apart in time that this is not often.
Reflection and advice
If you could go back and speak to yourself before starting the programme, what would you say?
If I could go back to before the programme started, I’d tell myself to be ready to spend a lot of time on training and reading the manuals. The second stage especially ramps up in both learning intensity and the depth of work involved.
What advice would you give to someone considering applying for the TSP based on your experience?
you’re thinking about applying for the programme, I’d say be prepared for a fast-paced and intense experience, and take the learning seriously. While there’s a lot of support from colleagues, it is a challenging course and you’ll get out of it what you put into it.
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