I qualified from DIT Aungier Street in 1999 with a first class honours degree in Management (B.Sc.(Hons) in Management).  After completing my degree, I trained in a mid-sized practice where I completed my ACCA exams, qualifying as a chartered certified accountant in 2002. I then went on to complete the tax technician examinations in 2014.

What does your job entail?

I recently set up a new business called “Account Keepers”, which provides outsourced bookkeeping services to SME clients. As a qualified accountant and qualified Tax Technician, I can also provide specialist advice on tax compliance matters in a cost effective way for my clients. Prior to starting my own business, I worked in practice with LHM Casey McGrath, EY and I also spent a number of years in industry working with O2 and Meteor.

Ciara - why did you choose the Tax Technician qualification from the Irish Tax Institute?

I wanted to pursue a tax qualification that provided me with the required level of knowledge to help and advise SME clients on meeting their tax compliance obligations.  I recognised that my accounting qualification was completed many years ago and I needed to up skill on tax to be able to deal with tax queries in a confident and professional manner.

I chose the Irish Tax Institute because they are the experts in tax training and this qualification is very well recognised. The Tax Technician qualification provided me with all the skills and knowledge that enabled me to ensure my clients achieve compliance across all tax heads.

Not only do my clients experience the benefit of outsourcing to a qualified accountant but they are also secure in the knowledge that I have the required tax skills.

What aspects of the Tax Technician qualification did you find most beneficial?

The most beneficial aspect has to be the breadth of tax heads covered. I now feel very confident across all of these areas. Also, the course is taught in a practical and meaningful way, which you can easily relate to day to day questions.

Ciara, what advice would you give to someone considering the Tax Technician qualification?

I would certainly recommend the qualification as a way of adding further specialism to an individual’s CV and using it to differentiate in terms of career path. This is particularly relevant if tax is an important aspect to performing your job, whether that is in industry, practice or working for yourself.