Tax Trainee Aaron Farrell

As part of our series celebrating our employees and the careers they are building with Crowe, we talk to staff about what it is like to work with our firm. They outline the career opportunities that Crowe offers, our unique firm culture and the CSR and social programmes that staff run.

What was your primary degree?
BA Accounting and Finance at NCI.

Before working at Crowe, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
I had one job before Crowe. I worked in Tesco part time. I worked in two different shops and across two different sections. It learnt a lot about with dealing with the public and it gave me an insight into the general running and maintenance of a large supermarket. I enjoyed my time there and it was a perfect part-time job while in college.

What is it about a career in accountancy and tax that appeals to you?
I enjoy the constant learning and upskilling in tax. The diversity in the role is satisfying – everyday there is something different or different challenges with certain deadlines approaching. It’s very interesting to learn about different clients in different sectors. I wish to continue to learn and develop as both an accountant and a tax consultant. 

What does your job entail?
I help complete tax returns across many different tax heads, Income Tax, VAT, CGT and CAT mainly. I assist the managers and partners in the completion of the various returns.

Describe a typical day.
Every day is different in the tax department, this is why the career appealed to me. Every job is diverse, whether it relates to a different tax head or different business sector that the client is in. Generally, I would converse with managers and complete work that has been given or sent to me directly from a client. That would then be reviewed by the appropriate member of staff. I would also make sure clients returns match what is on Revenue to ensure all is up to date and correct. 

What three words would you use to describe your role?
Diverse, engaging, practical.

What is the most challenging thing about your job?
Being aware of the many tax reliefs and when it is appropriate to use them. 

What do you like most about your job?
I like how every day I learn something new and how every day is different, there is very little repetition in tax. I like how close I work with partners; I feel this has helped me a lot.

How did you find working and studying at the same time?
Challenging at times, but rewarding. Studying tax was beneficial as a lot of the study material is being used day-to-day in the office. It helps me learn more about the reliefs I find challenging.

The study leave period is a good length and helps you prepare for the exams.

What is different about working at Crowe?
The experience and relationships with managers, directors and partners. Everyone is very helpful and are willing to help and teach each other.

How has Crowe helped you in your career development?
Crowe has helped me gain a lot of knowledge and build my confidence. The firm has helped improve my people skills and my confidence to speak in groups. It has helped me understand the importance of time management and keeping well-ordered lists/files for deadlines. Working directly with higher senior staff proves the importance of the standard and clarity of work.

What are 3 words to describe Crowe?
Empathetic, fulfilling, driven.
Crowe’s values are Agility, Curiosity, Affinity and Clarity.

What personal values define you?
Enthusiasm, efficiency, perseverance.

Favourite memory from work?
The quiz night, it was my first work night out and I really enjoyed it.

How have you found remote working?
It’s been interesting. Personally, I have a long commute to work, so in terms of personal time, saving money on transport and longer sleeps it’s been a godsend. However, I do miss the social aspect of work, asking people how their weekend was or even going for lunch. In tax we have missed a lot of social nights out so hopefully we can get back to normality soon. 

What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
“Pick something business related in college” – My Mam.
Not sure it was the best advice but here I am!

What do you like to do when you aren’t working?
The gym and playing or watching football (in the pub).

What is your guilty pleasure?
The TV show Pretty Little Liars – really enjoyed that till the terrible ending

What is your hidden talent?
Not growing since I was 15….

Are you an early bird or a night owl?
Depends on the day of the week. Friday and Saturday I’m a night owl.