Henry Patterson – Consultant - Tax
What’s your job about?
My job is as a consultant in the Private Client Services team, which sits under the Tax service line. We help prepare financial statements, tax returns and provide general operational and tax advice to privately owned businesses, families and individuals. It’s a great way to get exposure to how the finances of business work and how decisions are made on a day-to-day basis.
What’s your background?
I studied a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Finance and Economics. I finished university halfway through 2020 and then went on to complete a Graduate Diploma in Hotel and Tourism Management. Prior to completing my studies, I was an intern in the EY Christchurch office over 2019/2020 summer. I thoroughly recommend the internship to anyone thinking of joining EY. It was an awesome way to get exposure to the great people and culture of the office.
Could someone with a different background do your job?
Absolutely! There are a wide variety of backgrounds and skillsets in our office. If not my job, there will be something else at the EY organization for you.
What’s the coolest thing about your job?
I think the coolest thing about the job would be seeing how businesses grow and what drives their decision-making. Getting this experience first-hand is really valuable. Outside of the job itself, the EY people and the social scene is great.
What are the limitations of your job?
I don’t think there are many limitations to my job. It can be hard adjusting from the study schedule to working life. It means you’re a lot busier 9-5 which can be tough at first, but it also means you won’t have to worry about spending Sunday studying at the library! Fortunately, the EY organisation encourages flexible working hours which is a massive help when you’ve got important personal commitments during the workday.
Three pieces of advice I would give to myself as a student: