When I joined PwC, I was mostly focused on the data itself. But I quickly discovered that a strong analysis on its own is not enough. Real impact only happens when you can effectively communicate insights to the client and work together to turn them into action.
"Value is only created when you can translate insights into something a client can truly act on."
Maurits de VriesSenior consultant Tax PwCA day in the life of Maurits
It doesn't end with data and advice
Companies bring us in when they want to improve their processes. I analyze their data and identify where things are not working as efficiently as they could. Where are the bottlenecks? What is taking up unnecessary time? And what could be done smarter?
Today, I actively engage with clients to discuss insights, rather than focusing solely on the analysis. For me, that client interaction was a step outside my comfort zone. But if you want to create real change, it is not enough to understand what the data is telling you. You also need to bring people along in what you see and help them understand what improvements are possible.
I've come to find that a particularly rewarding part of my work. After all, our work does not end with delivering advice. Once we've identified opportunities for improvement together with a client, we also help implement those improvements in systems and ways of working.
"If you want real change to happen, you need to bring people along in what you see and the improvements that are possible."
Maurits de VriesSenior consultant Tax PwCGrowing through trust
I did not make that transition on my own. My coaches and the managers I work with played an important role in that journey. I have always appreciated the trust I was given from day one.
I was never held back because I lacked experience in certain areas. On the contrary, I was given complex projects and challenging responsibilities, sometimes even before I felt fully ready for them. By simply doing it, you learn quickly.
I see that same mindset in my team. We motivate each other to work hard and bring out the best in ourselves. At the same time, the atmosphere is far more informal than many people might expect. Managers are approachable, communication lines are short, and everyone is easy to connect with. Colleagues have become friends. That makes challenging moments easier and successes even more enjoyable to celebrate together.
"Colleagues have become friends. That makes challenging moments easier and successes even more enjoyable to celebrate together."
Maurits de VriesSenior consultant Tax PwC
AI as a sparring partner
Technology is changing the way I work. I use AI throughout the day. Whether I'm writing Python or SQL code, AI helps me work faster and identify errors more efficiently. Sometimes it feels like having an incredibly smart colleague sitting next to me, constantly helping me think things through.
I also use AI to challenge my own thinking. When working with complex datasets, for example, I can use it to suggest potential analyses or uncover patterns I may not have considered. When creating reports or presentations, it helps me build a first draft or communicate complex ideas more clearly.
But no matter how smart the analysis or the technology is, value is only created when you can translate insights into something a client can truly act on.
Growth often means doing something that does not yet come naturally. Curious about the steps you could take at PwC?
