David Clancy - David Clancy & Associates
I was lucky to have an exceptional lecturer in DCU called Dr Patricia Barker who was a huge influence in my early career direction. A career in tax is demanding especially at a time of an increasing number of tax deadlines but the rewards are very attractive too. One of the aspects of a career in tax is that it is so varied - different clients with varied problems in a world that is constantly changing. The things I like best about the role are dealing with so many different people and the variation involved in the work.
My best experiences working in tax to date have been the development of our company Clancy & Associates and my involvement with the ITI as a member of the Education Committee. I am delighted at the tremendous developments in the AITI learning experience.
I started my own company in 1998.. The business has grown successfully and has been based on very hard work, some wonderful colleagues and clients. One of the wonderful things about a career in tax is there is no typical day. The challenges offered are so varied. Today, for example, I was advising individuals who are looking at a possible acquisition of a property in New York and want to know the tax implications and how to structure it, preparing a tax presentation to an executive who is planning retirement and dealing with some Revenue correspondence. Part of the great challenge is finding solutions to questions - reviewing legislation, reference books and Revenue practice to finding the sometimes elusive answer to a tax problem.
Tax is constantly changing and it is very challenging. There are difficult concepts and sometimes large amounts of money involved. There is a constant requirement to keep up to date. There are professional development courses run by the Irish Taxation Institute which are invaluable in this regard. Team work is also very important as many minds and second opinions are often invaluable in solving difficult problems.
My advice for anyone wishing to choose a career as a Registered Tax Consultant would be to obtain strong technical foundations, which is a great solid start to a tax career - learn the right way from the right person - it never leaves you and is an investment that can lead to fantastic opportunities and rewards. You will need a willingness to learn and have excellent attention to detail.
To see David Clancy's Careersportal.ie video interview please click here.