Why did you decide to apply for HMRC's TSP?
During my second and third years at university, I researched a variety of graduate schemes to identify roles where I could apply the skills gained through my degree. The Tax Specialist Programme stood out because it would allow me to apply my analytical skills to work that sounded interesting and intellectually challenging.
From a personal values perspective, I strongly believe in fairness. The work we do directly contributes to funding vital public services by challenging those who seek to avoid their obligations and therefore this felt programme that it would be a rewarding career to embark on.
How did you secure your place on the programme?
I completed a quick online application form, which was straightforward. I then completed a series of tests, including numerical and situational judgment assessments.
After successfully passing these assessments, I was invited to an online video interview. To prepare I researched the civil service success profiles and reflected on experiences from my previous job roles and personal life that demonstrated the behaviours and skills required for the programme.
I successfully passed the interview and was invited to attend an online assessment centre. This involved three tasks:
- an analysis exercise
- a role play meeting
- a group exercise.
I was pleased to find I didn't need any tax knowledge to complete them, but the exercises were designed to simulate the work I now do daily, including reviewing and analysing large volumes of data, negotiating with stakeholders and working at pace.
What attracted you to a career in tax?
This was a big career change from my previous roles in financial services. I wanted a role that would offer strong long-term career prospects along with a high degree of job security. Tax is a fundamental aspect of business, government policy and legislation, and is an evolving profession which will be in demand.
I was also drawn to the variety that the field offers. Tax covers a broad range of specialisms, including corporation tax, personal tax, VAT, inheritance tax and others, providing opportunities to develop expertise in different areas throughout my career to keep things interesting.
What's a typical day like as a tax professional at HMRC?
As a civil investigator, I conduct investigations into some of the most serious cases of suspected tax evasion using HMRC’s Code of Practice 9 (COP9). A typical day involves managing my own portfolio of investigations, which can include analysing business and financial records, corresponding with customers and their representatives, preparing reports, and attending meetings to progress cases.
The role offers a high degree of autonomy, allowing me to manage my own workload and priorities while ensuring investigations are progressed effectively. In addition to casework, I contribute to project work and regularly collaborate with colleagues across different teams, which provides opportunities to share knowledge, develop new skills, and support wider organisational objectives.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I particularly enjoy meeting with customers and their agents to help them resolve issues and get their tax affairs right. I have had the opportunity to attend several meetings across the country, where I have led discussions with senior tax professionals.
These meetings allow me to apply the technical knowledge developed through formal study to real-life, high-stakes situations, requiring me to think critically, communicate clearly and respond to complex issues in real time. I enjoy the challenge and responsibility that come with these interactions, particularly when I can use my expertise to progress an investigation and achieve the right outcome.
How did your studies prepare you for the TSP?
My degree was in mathematics, which is centred on rigorous analysis, logical reasoning and drawing conclusions based on evidence, all of which are directly relevant to tax investigations and compliance work. The degree also developed my problem-solving abilities, enabling me to break down complex issues, identify key facts and reach well-reasoned conclusions. Strong numerical skills have been important for analysing financial information and understanding tax calculations, while the computing and data analysis elements of my studies helped me develop proficiency in tools such as Excel.
How does your work at HMRC make a difference to society?
The work we do helps ensure that everyone contributes their fair share towards funding public services. The tax collected by HMRC supports vital services that people rely on every day, including healthcare, education, transport and welfare. Knowing that my work contributes, even indirectly, to these outcomes gives me a strong sense of purpose and aligns closely with my personal belief in fairness.
Tax specialists play an important role in maintaining confidence in the tax system. By helping customers understand and meet their obligations, while also challenging those who deliberately avoid or evade tax, we help ensure that the rules are applied fairly and consistently. This creates a level playing field for individuals and businesses, ensuring that those who comply with the rules are not disadvantaged by those who do not.
Working within the Fraud Investigation Service, I see firsthand the importance of protecting tax revenue and addressing serious non-compliance. Although investigations can be complex, it is rewarding to know that our work helps safeguard public funds and supports trust in the wider tax system. The impact of a single case can extend far beyond the individuals involved, contributing to a stronger economy and ensuring funding remains available for essential public services.
What have been the main challenges so far?
One of the main challenges has been the transition from Stage 1 to Stage 2 of the TSP. During Stage 1, assessments were more informal, whereas Stage 2 introduced formal exams with a significant increase in both technical complexity and the depth of knowledge required. Adapting to that step up in expectations required greater preparation and discipline.
More generally, balancing the competing demands of the programme has been a challenge. As a TSP trainee, I am required to study for and sit exams, manage a portfolio of investigations, and complete workplace evidence to demonstrate my professional competence. None of this is unachievable, but successfully managing all of these responsibilities at the same time requires strong organisation, prioritisation and time-management skills.
What skills have you developed through the programme?
One of the most valuable skills I have developed is professional judgement. The technical knowledge gained through study, combined with the practical experience of managing investigations, has taught me how to make well-reasoned decisions in situations where information is often incomplete or uncertain. I have learned how to evaluate evidence critically, weigh the relevance of legislation, case law and HMRC guidance, and reach balanced conclusions that can be clearly justified.
Another important area of development has been my leadership skills. As the programme prepares trainees to become Grade 7 senior tax professionals, leadership is a key aspect of the role. Throughout the TSP, I have had opportunities to develop and demonstrate these skills by leading projects, mentoring colleagues, and delivering training sessions and presentations. These experiences have helped me build confidence in influencing others, communicating complex information clearly, and taking responsibility for achieving outcomes.
What professional qualifications or training are you completing as part of the TSP?
Stage 1 consisted of foundational study delivered through a series of modules, providing a broad overview of the main UK taxes. Upon progressing to Stage 2, my studies became more tailored to my role, and I am currently following the Personal Tax pathway, which comprises seven exams. In addition, I have completed specialist accreditation required for my role, enabling me to conduct investigations under COP9.
How do you balance studying and working?
I set aside time in my diary for study and maintain an evolving to-do list to help me stay organised and keep track of priorities.
Over time, I have become good at prioritising my workload and focusing on the tasks that require immediate attention. I have also found that completing the required reading before tutorials is vital, as it allows me to get the most out of the sessions and participate more effectively.
I am also realistic about what I can achieve. I am always keen to get involved in interesting work and projects, but I recognise that, particularly around exam periods, it is sometimes necessary to say no to additional commitments to maintain the right balance.
How has your role developed since joining HMRC, and what are your future career ambitions?
There has been a gradual increase in my responsibility. At Stage 1, my cases involved just one individual or one company. Now, one of my investigations involves several individuals and companies with complex group structures.
I am really enjoying my work within the Fraud Investigation Service and can see myself continuing to build my career within HMRC for the foreseeable future. My immediate focus is on continuing to develop my technical knowledge and investigative skills, while gaining experience from increasingly complex cases. Longer term, I would be interested in progressing into a case consultant role or exploring senior leadership opportunities within HMRC, where I could use my experience to support and develop others while contributing to the department's wider objectives.
What's been your biggest achievement since starting the programme?
I am proud that I have managed to pass every exam on the first attempt, with no resits required. Balancing study alongside a demanding workload has required commitment, organisation and discipline, so consistently achieving successful exam results has been very rewarding. It has given me confidence in my ability to manage competing priorities and maintain a high standard in both my work and studies.
What advice would you give to students and graduates considering a career in tax?
- Throw yourself in, you will get as much out as you put in.
- Get as much exposure to different taxes and opportunities as possible.
- Don't be afraid to ask questions.
- You don't need to be perfect.
- Stay organised.
- Trust the process. It's a long program, take the TSP one, day, milestone and exam at a time.
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