Holly studied philosophy and politics at the University of Leeds before joining HMRC's Tax Specialist Programme (TSP)
Why did you decide to apply for HMRC's TSP?
The main appeal was the generous salary and the built-in progression to a higher grade. I was looking for a role that offered clear career progression without requiring me to sacrifice my work/life balance.
How did you secure your place on the programme?
I went through the application process, which included:
an assessment centre
numeracy and literacy tests
video interview
work style assessment.
Each stage was separated by varying lengths of time, with the entire process taking less than six months.
What attracted you to a career in tax?
I enjoy problem solving and mathematics. While a career in tax doesn't require advanced mathematical skills, I have always enjoyed working with numbers, so the prospect of a numbers-based role appealed to me. I was also attracted to the job security that a career in tax can offer, as taxation is a constant part of modern society and is often viewed as a complex area.
What's a typical day like as a tax professional at HMRC?
A typical day involves analysing information, both numerical and non-numerical, to build a comprehensive picture of a business, its finances and, ultimately, its tax liabilities. We speak to a range of customers, keeping in touch as we progress their cases, and get to learn about many different businesses and individuals in the process.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I really value the support available on the programme. We learn about different taxes and legislation through the study element of the programme, which enables us to work more independently as we take on cases and apply our knowledge in practice.
It's rewarding to gain confidence in your role, and because the course is challenging, you can clearly see your own development, even over short periods of time.
How did your studies prepare you for the TSP?
Studying for a degree helps you develop strong study skills and the ability to understand and communicate complex ideas. Understanding legislation and tax rules is one thing, but applying them correctly and explaining them clearly to customers is another.
When writing official correspondence to customers, colleagues or senior leaders, we need to support our conclusions with legislation and ensure our communication is pitched at the appropriate level. Writing university essays, where you are required to support your arguments with credible sources, provides a strong foundation for this type of work.
What career development opportunities have you experienced so far?
I have had opportunities to take notes in a variety of high-level meetings. These experiences have given me valuable insight into the work of more senior colleagues, and have also allowed me to expand my professional network.
They have been valuable opportunities to learn more about the broader world of tax, hear about colleagues' career journeys and consider what my own future career path might look like.
What have been the main challenges so far?
One challenge I have faced is asking for help. It seems to be a common feeling among trainees joining the programme that they are out of their depth. I felt the same way and didn't want to appear as though I was struggling.
It's important to remember that support is available and that the programme is designed with learning and development in mind. You wouldn't be here if you couldn’t do it.
What skills have you developed through the programme?
I have developed my ability to prioritise and delegate tasks. As someone who is quite a perfectionist, I like things to be done a certain way. However, sometimes you need to make sensible compromises for efficiency.
I've learned to balance maintaining high-quality work and working confidently and independently with being mindful of time, asking for support when needed, and delegating tasks appropriately. I am now much better at recognising where that balance lies and when it's best to rely on colleagues rather than ‘toughing it out’ myself.
How do you balance studying with your day-to-day responsibilities at work?
I like to block out dedicated study time in my calendar to ensure I have reserved time for learning alongside my other responsibilities.
Other priorities can arise unexpectedly, and it can be tempting to focus only on tasks that need immediate attention. Learning how to schedule work effectively and accept that some items will remain on the to-do list for a while is vital. I make a conscious effort not to lose sight of the importance of the time I've reserved for learning.
How has your role developed since joining HMRC, and what are your career ambitions?
I have become much more independent. As my experience with casework has grown, I have found myself seeking approval from my mentor more often than guidance.
At the moment, I am considering which area of HMRC I would like to pursue in the future, whether that's policy or casework. I'm keen to take on as many opportunities as possible while I continue to develop my career.
What's been your biggest achievement since starting the programme?
I am proud to write submissions for approval, using legislation and guidance to inform decisions on the progression of cases.
Having a real impact on individuals and businesses through the fair application of the tax system feels meaningful. My greatest achievements often come from interactions with customers, helping them better understand their tax affairs and giving them confidence in the next steps.
What advice would you give to students and graduates considering a career in tax?
Be curious - There is so much to learn and get involved in.
Don't think that tax is all about numbers - Strong communication, relationship-building, and critical thinking skills are just as important.
Be confident - It's okay not to know much about tax; there are so many opportunities to learn and so much support. There are no silly questions.
