The best part of my job? It's when I'm explaining a complex VAT issue to a client and suddenly see it click. Sometimes you can literally see the relief on someone's face. That's when you know you've genuinely helped someone. Moments like that give me a lot of satisfaction.
'Sometimes you can literally see the relief on a client's face. That's when you know you've genuinely helped someone.'
Emily van der Zwan,Senior consultant PwC Indirect TaxEmily's Story
Every puzzle is different
I work in the VAT team, focusing on large international companies. Essentially, I help businesses that operate across multiple countries manage their VAT correctly. For example, when a company restructures part of its supply chain or goes through an acquisition, we help figure out what that means from a VAT perspective and what risks might be involved.
It might sound a bit dry, but in practice it often feels like solving puzzles. And the nice thing is that every puzzle is different. One day I'm sitting down with a client to untangle a complex issue, the next I'm delivering a VAT training session or speaking with the tax authorities. That variety is what makes the job so enjoyable. And because every challenge is different, you often build close relationships with your clients along the way.
From advisor to sparring partner
When a client understands where the challenges lie, something changes in the relationship. You're no longer just the person giving advice. You become a sparring partner. Someone who helps think things through and make better decisions. That makes the collaboration stronger and allows you to make a real difference.
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'What gives me energy? The moment a client truly understands it. When it clicks. And knowing you've achieved that together as a team.'
Emily van der Zwan,Senior consultant PwC Indirect TaxOutside my comfort zone
One moment that really pushed me outside my comfort zone was when I led a presentation for a large and important client for the first time. I didn't know the organisation very well yet and, honestly, I was quite nervous.
Because we had prepared everything thoroughly as a team, I decided to go for it anyway. Afterwards, we had a feedback session and I learned a lot from it. It reinforced how important preparation, feedback and teamwork really are.
Stronger together
One thing that immediately stood out to me when I joined PwC was how open the team is. To be honest, I expected a fairly hierarchical environment, but that couldn't have been further from the truth. Everyone is approachable and open to questions or a conversation, from associates to partners.
That open culture has played a big role in my own development. My coach was an important part of that, but really, the whole team has been. If something comes up, there's always someone I can turn to. That made it much easier to keep learning and growing.
What I enjoy most now is being able to give that same support back to others. I get a lot of energy from coaching junior colleagues and seeing them develop.
'One day I'm untangling complex issues with clients, the next I'm delivering training sessions or speaking with the tax authorities. That variety is what makes the work so enjoyable. '
Emily van der Zwan,Senior consultant PwC Indirect Tax
AI as an extra sparring partner
Technology is changing the way we work. I use AI for things like analyses, brainstorming and drafting memos. Sometimes it genuinely feels like having an extra sparring partner who helps you get to the heart of an issue more quickly. That leaves me with more time for the work I enjoy most: advising clients and collaborating with colleagues.
Some challenges seem complicated until someone helps make them understandable.
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