Fascinated by the world around him, Willem explores the world of business

What made you pursue a career in your field, and why did you apply to Deloitte?

I graduated with a Master’s degree in Chemistry from Cambridge University in 2016, and I joined Deloitte’s graduate programme in a year later, where I work as a business tax analyst in the Cambridge office.  Tax is fascinating as it affects everyone and almost everything in the world around us. I chose Tax Advisory due to its great balance, involving everything from accounting to law, and everything in between.  I applied to Deloitte as it's particularly dynamic – as a company, they keep moving forward. This ranges from keeping ahead of the latest technologies, to continuously developing each individual on a personal level. I support the team with research, analysis and drafting for a range of advisory work. Recently, I’ve also taken on managing my own clients in the tax compliance process.

What do you like best about working for Deloitte?

Coming from a science background I am interested in the whole world around us - I wanted to join Deloitte to enter the business world, something which I’d had little exposure to before. Deloitte is a top firm which helps clients in a huge number of different industry sectors, so every day working is fascinating. 

What are your interests outside of work?

Outside of work I like to play hockey for my local hometown team. I also enjoy cooking and learning languages (currently Dutch!).

What are the top 3 reasons for joining the Graduate programme?

One of the best parts of the Deloitte Graduate programme is that you are able to learn whilst working. This means you get real-life experience at the same time as a good qualification, and are on a constant upward trajectory.

Another great reason for joining the Graduate programme is that you are handed responsibility early on in your career. This really allows you to grow as a person and boosts your development as a tax advisor.   

Lastly, all Deloitte Tax Graduates and Brightstart joiners go on the Tax Academy at the start of their career - it's fantastic. I was able to meet other new Graduates and BrightStarts from all over the country – we formed a tight unit and I made some great friends. We learnt all the skills needed to start our jobs whilst having lots of fun at the same time!

How would you describe your Graduate journey?

Writing this I am 5 months into my graduate journey, and I’m really enjoying life at Deloitte. My career started off very positively at the Tax Analyst Academy and it continued after that, as I began life in the Cambridge office. There is a fantastic team of people here and it’s a great environment to work in. I'm getting exposure to a large variety of industries, and work is interesting every day. I feel like I am really able to make a difference and very much look forward to what the future has to bring.

Fancy taking on the challenge of Tax? Check out our programme details here: Deloitte Careers UK