Alex - From school to the top of the world

When did you join Deloitte and what’s your role?

I joined Deloitte’s Guernsey office straight from school, as a BrightStart back in August 2012.

I initially had a very broad role in tax but, after a couple of years, I began to specialise in cross-border tax matters for companies. The international nature of our clients has always intrigued me, so this was a natural choice. Last summer, I moved to the London office, continuing to work on international tax, but with an additional focus on tax transparency. 

What made you pursue a career in your field?

I did a number of placements with Deloitte before I joined the BrightStart programme, so I knew I’d enjoy my career here. If you get an opportunity for a placement or internship before joining a graduate programme I would highly recommend it!   

Tax is constantly developing. It’s a global issue, and in the news almost every day. Also, it affects most significant developments in a business. I get to help my clients as they look to grow, which is an exciting thing to be a part of.

What do you like best about working for Deloitte?

Deloitte cares about its staff and looks after them and their development. I’ve been given plenty of guidance and training to help me keep moving up to the next level.

For example, when I first began exploring my move to the London office, the business supported me every step of the way – both offices were keen to ensure the move went well and was right for me.

I see Deloitte as a land of many opportunities. We do such a vast range of activities that there is something for almost everyone.

What were your most memorable achievements in 2018?

Firstly, I did the Deloitte Ride Across Britain – Land’s End to John O’Groats in nine days – where I met Mark Cavendish, and raised around £2.7k for Mind.

Following this, I was lucky enough to manage the Guernsey cycling team at the Commonwealth Games in Australia. Highlights included meeting Usain Bolt, and helping the team bag a sixth and a seventh place – not bad for a tiny island.

This September, I climbed Stok Kangri in the Himalayas, again for Mind. This was an eight-day trek which involved camping in freezing conditions. It was the hardest physical challenge I’ve ever done.

Looking back on 2018, what were your key motivation drivers; how did your creativity help you overcome professional challenges?

Sometimes I need to be creative, or approach a problem from a different angle, to get the right answer. I think I’m most creative when I put myself in someone else’s shoes and mould my approach to suit them.

Feeling inspired? Take a look at our current opportunities for a career in Tax.